|
|
what is little athletics? |
Little Athletics is the perfect introduction to sport for children aged 3 to 12, a fun, inclusive and active weekly program designed to help kids move, grow and belong.
As the participation entry point into athletics for young children, Little Athletics provides a welcoming environment where kids can explore running, jumping and throwing in a way that prioritises family, fun and fitness. Every child participates, regardless of ability, with a strong focus on participation, personal improvement and building confidence through sport.
A typical Little Athletics season runs across the summer months, with most local clubs holding weekly competitions on Friday evenings or Saturday mornings with several clubs also hosting mid-week sessions. Children rotate through a variety of age-appropriate running, jumping and throwing events in a structured and supportive environment, helping them build skills, confidence and friendships while enjoying being active.
At its heart, Little Athletics is about more than sport. It’s about creating a positive and encouraging environment where children develop fundamental movement skills, resilience and self-belief. Importantly, athletics is a sport for every child, all shapes, sizes and abilities. There are no team selections, no sitting on the bench, and no missing out because someone else is faster. Every child gets the opportunity to participate, improve and celebrate their own progress week to week.
The skills developed through Little Athletics - running, jumping, throwing, coordination and movement - form the foundation not only for athletics, but for participation and success in many sports. For many families, Little Athletics also complements other activities, helping children build confidence and physical literacy while exploring a range of sporting interests.
As children grow older, many continue their athletics journey through junior and senior athletics, where opportunities expand to include club competition, championships and performance pathways. Others simply continue to enjoy athletics as a lifelong way to stay active, healthy and connected.
For more than 50 years, Little Athletics in New South Wales has introduced hundreds of thousands of young people to sport. While some have gone on to represent NSW and Australia, countless others have gained something just as valuable friendships, confidence, discipline, resilience and a lifelong appreciation for health and physical activity.
A key strength of Little Athletics is its vibrant grassroots community. With more than 220 affiliated clubs across NSW, local clubs bring families together each week in welcoming, community focused environments where every child is encouraged and supported. Powered by passionate volunteers, these clubs are the backbone of the Little Athletics experience.
As part of NSW Athletics, Little Athletics continues to play a vital role in helping young people get involved in sport, stay active and build the confidence and skills that support lifelong participation.