Who can participate in Little Athletics?

Children between the ages of five (5) and seventeen (17) years can register. Parents, grandparents and friends can also be involved by helping with the various events

 

At what time of the year does Little Athletics take place?

The Track & Field season generally runs from October through to mid/late March. Cross Country season is conducted during winter months between April to mid August.

 

Where will my child be participating?

Centre meets are held on Saturday morning at Davies Reserve, Oakleigh South commencing at 8.45am and concluding at approximately 11.30am. Some twilight meets are held on Friday nights when there is a long weekend, commencing at 5.15pm.

Cross Country is held on Saturday mornings throughout Bayside area including Bald Hill Park, Braeside Park, Hampton Foreshore and Westgate Park.

Athletes will also have the opportunity of representing their Centre at Open Days, Region Competition and State Championships held in various venues in Victoria.

 

What events are offered?

Events offered at OLAC are dependent on the athlete's age and the Centre Program for that week.

• Sprints - 70m, 100m, 200m, 400m
• Distance Running - 800m, 1500m
• Hurdles - 60m, 80m, 90m, 100m, 110m, 200m, 300m
• Jumps - Long Jump, Triple Jump (U11+), High Jump
• Throws - Shot Put, Discus, Turbo Javelin (U6-U10), Javelin (U11+)

 

What level of ability do children have to be to join?

Our emphasis is on Family, Fun & Fitness. Children can join with any level of skill or fitness. Children are given plenty of encouragement to achieve Personal Bests (PBs). 

 

Will my child be taught the correct technique or have access to training/coaching?

Training is free for all registered athletes. Trial athletes are welcome to join 1 training session during their 2 week trial period. 

Centre training are on Tuesdays from 5pm to 6pm during the season at Davies Reserve. Wednesdays are focused on specific events, run by our Junior Coaches. Thursdays are Relay training and special training before Region and State events. More details here.

Cross Country training is currently offered on Wednesdays from 5pm at Davies Reserve.

 

How do I register my child?

If your child would like to take part in Little Athletics, you need to register them via the online portal on the LAVic website. Athletes will be required to provide proof of age - birth certificate or passport etc. to the Centre Registrar to finalise registration. To register online, access the portal HERE.

 

How much does Little Athletics cost?

Registration fees for 2023-24 is: 

• 1 athlete $180 
• 2 athletes (family) $330
• 3 athletes (family) $495
• 4 athletes (family) $660
• 5 athletes (family) $825

 

Can my child try Little Athletics before joining?

Yes, OLAC allows new athletes up to two (2) weeks free trial period before having to commit to registering for the season.

You will need to register them via the membership portal here, selecting join new member, then select trial athlete. You will receive an email with trial name patch which you need to bring with you for your child to wear when competing.

 

What shoes should I buy my child?

Footwear must be worn in all events including training, by all athletes. Only athletes in Under 11 to Under 17 are permitted ot wear spikes.

 

Do children need to wear a uniform?

Yes, all registered athletes must wear the Centre uniform singlet top and plain black shorts (preferable) when competing in Little Athletics competition. Uniforms may be purchased from the canteen on registration day or at any centre meet.

 

What is expected of parents?

Little Athletics is a voluntary organisation, run by all volunteers. We cannot operate without the assistance of parents/guardians each week in fulfilling the many and varied duties required. These include officiating at an event, managing an age group, measuring at jumps and throw events, helping in the canteen, just to name a few. Additional assistance is always required on the Centre committees and all parents are encouraged to become involved. Little Athletics is one of the few sports where parents can become fully involved in their child's sporting interests.

 

Does my child have the opportunity to win any medals/trophies?

OLAC always encourages athletes to "STRIVE TO BE THEIR BEST". We show importance in PBs and improving their skills and technique.

All athlete's performances are recorded in each event, every week. Results are available via Results HQ online portal here.

Trophies, medals and certificates are awarded at the end of the season at our Presentation Day.

 

Who do I contact if I have any further queries?

OLAC President, Panny 0411 687 392 or email oakleigh@lavic.com.au