30.09.2011
Little Athletics Australia and Athletics Australia make history
Little Athletics Australia and Athletics Australia have today cemented their relationship by signing a Joint Venture Agreement with the support of the Australian Sports Commission for the first time in history.
Coming together for a joint board meeting, Ross Burridge, Little Athletics Australia President, and Rob Fildes OAM, Athletics Australia President, agreed to continue to work together to find effective ways to improve the services on offer to all Australians interested in participating in Athletics. The agreement will see the two autonomous organisations collaboratively deliver Athletics programs and pathways aimed at ensuring continuing participation in the sport.
Ross Burridge said: “This joint venture provides a wonderful opportunity for both organisations to develop structures that will grow participation in track and field at all levels.”
“We thank the Australian Sports Commission for their support of this fantastic project, and hope that together we can ensure the seamless transition from competition at your local Little Athletics Centre to possible senior representation and even selection to the Australian Flame.”
“This is a massive step forward for our sport, it’s the first formal agreement in the history of our two organisations, and we congratulate Athletics Australia for their forward vision on how this Joint Venture is vital in delivering future successes.”
Rob Fildes OAM said: “Athletics Australia is extremely pleased to be signing a Joint Venture Agreement withLittle Athletics Australia for the increased growth of the sport of Athletics throughout Australia.”
“This Agreement will ensure that thousands more Australian children are introduced to Athletics and that’s a great result.”
“The close working relationship between Little Athletics Australia and Athletics Australia, including being co-tenants at the new Athletics House Building currently under construction at Albert Park, Victoria, will ensure that the philosophy of a united governance will be able to be managed very efficiently.”
“Athletics Australia congratulates the leadership of Little Athletics Australia for their vision in working with us, supported by the Australian Sports Commission, to participate in this exciting new program for Athletics, which is the foundation of all sports.”
The Joint Venture ensures cooperation in the formulation of joint policies and strategies for areas such as the:
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Development of competition and participation environments which meet the needs of transitional age groups.
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Recruitment, development and retention of Athletics coaches Australia-wide.
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Development of Athletics officials and the formulation of an integrated officials recruitment, training and accreditation scheme.
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Development of joint facilities both in metropolitan and country areas in cooperation with local, state and Commonwealth agencies.
The first Development Officer in New South Wales has already begun, with Victoria’s representative and a nationally focused position in the Little Athletics Australia and Athletics Australia offices set to commence in the coming weeks.
For more information about Little Athletics Australia, please visit their website by clicking here.