WA TEENAGERS SET FOR DEVELOPMENT BOOST

WA’s teenagers are set for a boost on and off the track with Athletics West launching a new and comprehensive Youth Development program. Set to launch at the end of the month, the program is open to 15 to 17-year-olds and will aim to help drive more opportunities for teenagers in athletics.

The program will look to support the engagement of more teenagers at both a club and state level in officiating and coaching roles, as well as providing unique development opportunities for those involved.

Included in the program costs is an exclusive 2-night camp, the program will provide every participant with an Atheltics Australia Level 1 Coaching Accreditation and State Level Officiating certification. 

The program will launch in mid-November with Athletics West’s Coach and Officials Coordinator Rebecca Del Pup excited about the “opportunity for athletes to make new friendships or further develop current relationships.”

“The [program aims] to upskill athletes in other areas in the sport, and show what opportunities and pathways are available outside of competitions. Many of these athletes would have only participated as an athlete, so this camp will give them greater skills and understanding of what’s involved in officiating and coaching.” Del Pup said.

“This camp is open to anyone whether they are a current or previous member of the sport, so I think it’s a great opportunity to give people the chance to upskill and give back.”

Balancing personal and sport development opportunities, the program will see each participant take part in leadership training, discipline specific athletics training, as well as receive level one qualifications in coaching and officiating.

“They’ll leave the camp with two qualifications, as well as great leadership skills, fun memories and a certificate of completion which will complement their resume for any job opportunities within athletics or outside of sport.”

Thanks to a grant from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, participants will also get an inside look into WA’s high-performance pathway with an exclusive tour of the WAIS and session with WAIS Coaches.

To sign-up for the Youth Development Program and gain access to this one in a lifetime opportunity, click HERE. 

You can follow all the athletics action from Athletics West via Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

For more information about how you can get involved in athletics, contact Athletics West on 08 6272 0480.

By David Smith and Dylan Gane, Athletics West.

Posted 9 November 2023.