Coaching

Coaches play an integral role in the development of athletes, teaching and guiding them through various situations, and enabling them to thrive in the many facets of their lives – not only in sport. Coach education and development exists in several different pathways. For Guidance on your best option, please see the diagram below.

ITLAS – Introduction to Teaching Little Athletics Skills

If you’re just getting started on your coaching journey or are looking to help at your local Centre, the Introduction to Teaching Little Athletics Skills Course (ITLAS) could be a great place to start.

A non-accredited practical course designed for Little Athletics and conducted on behalf of Little Athletics Australia, ITLAS is held as a practical, face-to-face session for participants wanting to teach Little Athletics event-specific skills. ITLAS is ideal for those wanting to help at Centre level and teachers who want to know more in preparation for a school athletics carnival. Participants will be shown the skills, drills, and activities relevant to the target age group of primary school age competitors.

Cost: $70.00 + GameDay processing fee. Includes all practical sessions, Interactive PDF coaching resources and manual, handouts, and Centre Officiating Handbook.

In 2023/24 ITLAS will be offered on the following dates below:

AA and ATFCA Coaching Pathways

To hold Athletics Australia (AA) accreditation and be formally recognised as a track and field coach, an individual must complete and/or progress through one or more levels of the Accredited Athletics Coach Framework. These courses are recommended to those who intend to coach for the long-term and/or would like to coach private groups or squads. Accreditation with Athletics Australia includes public liability insurance if you are coaching outside Little Athletics centre-approved activities. A coaching accreditation is also sometimes necessary to use certain facilities or as a condition of employment as a coach.

In Victoria, AA coach education programs are delivered by Athletics Victoria. More information on these courses can be found HERE, with instructions on how to register available HERE.

The Australian Track and Field Coaches Association also offer a variety of coach education courses, information regarding which can be found HERE.

Find a Coach

Coaches play an integral role in the development of athletes, teaching and guiding them through various situations, and enabling them to thrive in the many facets of their lives – not only in sport. Finding the right coach, with a skillset and experience that meets a participant’s needs, is important for their long-term development, and enjoyment of the sport and physical activity. The following page will provide you with some prompts that may assist in finding the right coach for you.