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.

Additional Information

Coaching a Team

Forming a Team

The Team Parents

The First 5 Team Meetings

How Do Teams Compete?

The Problems Types

Preview of Current Problems. You can download the full problem with an active membership.

Problem Clarifications

Files to download

PDF: 2023-24 Problem Synopses. (Coaches must use the Member Area to get the full problems).

PDF: The Odyssey of the Mind  2023-24 Program Guide. 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.

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: Effective Coaching tactics. This contains tips on teaching teamwork, brainstorming, and how to answer the team questions.

PDF: Here is a handy guide of Parent Guidelines that we encourage you to pass to all team parents.

PDF: Style and Paperwork: Summary of forms that should be filled for tournament. A more detailed training will be prepared around January with specifics of the upcoming tournament procedures.