Team Resources
Learning all there is to start a new team can be overwhelming. If there is not already a membership at your school, start here. You may also consult our glossary to help with terms commonly used.
Here are some resources to help you understand the basics. Of course, reading the "Program Guide" is a must for all coaches, new and experienced alike as rules do change from year to year.
Training Materials
Coach Training Materials (video and PDF) are intended for the Coach.
Odyssey Academy is a series of videos to watch with the whole team.
Spontaneous resources including sources for practice problems.
Step-by-Step Information
Coaching a Team
Forming a Team
The Team Parents
The First 5 Team Meetings
How Do Teams Compete?
Preview of Current Problems. You can download the full problem with an active membership, through our local Member Area.
Files to download
PDF: 2024-25 Problem Synopses. (Coaches must use the Member Area to get the full problems).
PDF: The Odyssey of the Mind 2024-25 Program Guide (updated Oct 2024). This is essentially your rule book and it is updated each year. Please read carefully the specific sections on Membership (chapter II) and Program Rules (chapter V). There is an online searchable version as well here. You may like to add this easy Index in your Coach Binder.
PDF: Suggested Lesson Plans for the first 5 Team Meetings (in more detail).
PDF: The Odyssey Passport, an interactive planner/guide to help new and seasoned teams and coaches navigate our program in 10 Phases, from the first meeting to competition. (Coaches must use the Member Area to access the download).
PDF: The Coaches Handout. This collection of articles contains tips on teaching teamwork, brainstorming, and how to answer the team questions. Also information about Style, Paperwork and several example of Outside Assistance explained.
PDF: Here is a handy guide of Parent Guidelines that we encourage you to pass to all team parents.