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Regional Development Centres

The purpose of the IAAF Regional Development Centres (RDCs) is to support the Member Federations in their Regions as they work to promote the development of athletics in their respective countries. RDCs are responsible for the implementation of the IAAF Development Programme and the co-ordination of the development activities in their Region.

Since the opening of the first RDC in 1986, a wide variety of RDC activities have been carried out and much valuable experience gained. This document serves to clarify and update the RDC Operational Policy to improve the overall function of the network, and to encourage each RDC to take on greater responsibilities in the 21st century.

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HIGH PERFORMANCE TRAINING CENTRES

The IAAF High Performance Training Centres (HPTC) provide a centre of excellence for the training and development of international class athletes and coaches. The Centres are managed and supervised under IAAF control.

The first HPTC was opened by the IAAF in 1997. Since then, the IAAF has opened HPTC's in several Areas around the world: notably in Africa, Asia, South America, NACAC (North America, Central America and Caribbean) and Oceania.

Many athletes have benefited from time spent at these HPTC's and have improved their performances at world level as a result. Indeed, a number of HPTC-trained athletes have gone on to become medal winners at international competitions.

This success has led to many IAAF Member Federations entrusting the advancement of their elite athletes to these training centres.

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ACCREDITED CENTRES

The IAAF system for the Accreditation of Training Centres (ATC)  has been developed in response to the growing demand for information about appropriate training centres. The aim of the System is to assist the National Federations, Athletes and Coaches to make the right decisions regarding the suitability of a centre to meet their specific needs and requirements.

Only training centres that meet and accept the standardised criteria proposed by the IAAF, which include high-quality facilities, support services and appropriate coaching, receive accreditation.

The classification of the centres is based upon technical criteria (including track & field facilities, accommodation, event speciality, coaches etc..). The list of  Accredited Training Centres is not exhaustive. The IAAF is currently establishing a worldwide ATC network.

If you have any further questions about the IAAF network of Regional Development Centres, High Performance Training Centres or Accredited Training Centres , please use our CONTACT PAGE - selecting the area 'Athletics Development'