Athletics West is excited to deliver the 2025/26 Youth Development Program (YDP), a state-based initiative designed to develop, upskill, and mentor young athletes and volunteers in the areas of coaching and officiating.

This program aims to increase the number of accredited coaches and officials across Western Australia, while building a pool of young leaders capable of accessing ongoing opportunities within the sport. It also supports affiliated clubs and centres by enhancing the capacity of volunteers to contribute meaningfully to local training sessions and competitions.

Affiliated Athletics Clubs & Centres are invited to nominate up to two (2) participants, aged 15-17 at the time of nomination.

Registrations for the YDP close Friday, 12th December at 11:59pm. 

Program Inclusions

• Accommodation, meals, and recreational activities during the 1-night Camp at Woodman Point Recreation Camp
• Athletics Australia Level 1 Youth Coach accreditation (valued at $230).
• Apprentice Level Referee accreditation (World Athletics)
• Event specific coach upskilling.
• Tour of the WAIS High Performance centre and Q&A with athletes
• Leadership workshop with external provider
• Opportunity to officiate at Strive event, receiving practical mentorship from our lead Officials
• Program t-shirt
• Certificate of completion of the 2025/26 Youth Development Program.

Participants in the 2025-26 Youth Development Program are required to attend:

• Induction session online Wednesday, December 17th at 6:00pm. 
• Online teams meetings to complete the theory components of the Australian Athletics Level 1 Youth Coach course.

• The 1-night camp running from Friday, 23rd January – Saturday 24th January. Dropoff/Pickup at Woodman Point Recreation Camp

Regional Scholarship Opportunity - Apply Now

Australian Athletics, supported by the Play Our Way grant, is offering partial funding assistance for young athletes and volunteers (aged 15-17) from regional and rural affiliated clubs and centres to join the 2025/26 Youth Development Program. Applicants must complete the following application form to be considered for funding: YDP - Regional Scholarship Application

Please note that preference will be given to women and First Nations applicants, due to grant objectives. 

If you have any questions or registration issues please contact Adele Macdonald, Coach and Officials Coordinator, at adele@athleticswest.com.au or call the Athletics West office on (08) 6272 0480