A general view of the women's 100m start (© Getty Images)
Following a series of meetings, Athletics Australia (AA) and Australian Little Athletics (ALA) have forged an agreement that will see the two organisations work closer together to improve the sport of athletics within Australia.
Both bodies will together deliver joint athletics programs and initiatives that meet the needs of young Australians so that the sport of athletics thrives and contributes to a healthier nation.
Historically the two organisations have had little connection with minimal focus on the transition from Little Athletics to senior athletics. This transitional pathway is critical for the sport not only for the athletes but also for the next generation of coaches, officials and volunteers – an issue both parties have addressed in this agreement.
Under the agreement, Athletics Australia recognises Australian Little Athletics as an autonomous organisation responsible for the conduct of athletics activities for children up to the age of 13.
Both Athletics Australia and Australian Little Athletics will be jointly responsible for the transition age groups (up to 15 years) with Athletics Australia providing the majority of competition above this age group. Dual registration with both organisations can apply in the transition period ages 12 - 15 years.
Both organisations have agreed to co-operate in the formulation of a number of joint policies and strategies including:
? Development of a Code of Conduct for all participants in the sport
? Development of basic human movement skills - walking, running, jumping and throwing
? Recruitment, development and retention of coaches
? Formulation of an integrated recruitment, training and accreditation scheme for officials
? Development of joint facilities both in metropolitan and regional areas, in co-operation with local, state and Commonwealth agencies
? Development of competition and participation environments which meets the needs of those in transitional age groups
? Administration of athletic competitions where the sport is offered in an area by one organisation
President of Athletics Australia Rob Fildes said although there will be challenges, he was looking forward to the opportunities the new agreement will present.
“Athletics Australia and Australian Little Athletics are looking forward to working together to move the sport in the same direction,” said Fildes.
“The initiatives that we will implement will improve participation for all in athletics – the athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers.
“We recognise that there will be a number of administrative challenges implementing these initiatives, however none that are seen as insurmountable.”
President of Australian Little Athletics, Ross Burridge, echoed Fildes sentiments.
“Little Athletics position as the Foundation for all Sports would be further consolidated through this collaborative arrangement with Athletics Australia,” said Burridge.
“ALA looks forward to working with Athletics Australia to help progress the sport of athletics across Australia. This will require a significant effort from all involved within the athletics community but it is a challenge that we can achieve together.“
Athletics Australia