Frequently Asked Questions
If you are new to athletics and it all looks pretty confusing, read on for what all the different leagues and competitions are and which ones you / your child is likely to be involved with.
How do I get involved?
The club has recently adopted an induction process for all new school age starters (It varies slightly according to age).
Please click the following link to read about the induction process. This will explain when a new athlete can come along to the club for the first time.
Please click the following link to read about the induction process. This will explain when a new athlete can come along to the club for the first time.
How old do I have to be?
We take children from 8 years of age.
What is a typical training session?
Young athletes aged 8 to 11 years train in our Recreation Group. Sessions are based around learning the skills of running, jumping and throwing in an age appropriate way including relays, games, fitness and coordination work. The emphasis is on variety, early technique acquisition and enjoyment. Those of secondary school age are able to work on a variety of track and field elements, for example sprinting, middle distance, hurdles, long, high and triple jump, shot, javelin, discus and hammer. We have event specific training groups for those who progress and want to specialise in certain areas. The club encourages a multi-discipline approach and encourages all young athletes to try a wide range of events.
How much does it cost?
We charge a small session fee per session. Non-members can come along and pay the non-member training fee without needing to commit to membership. Membership of the club is recommended of course, to take full advantage of a wide range of year-round competition opportunities, and session fees become much cheaper too.
Where do you train?
Our training base is the Rutland Sports Park at Ilkeston. We have use of the 400m track, throwing and jumping areas, and the large Tennis Centre (sportshall).
When should I come along?
Newcomers should read about the induction sessions first before coming along to a training session for the first time.
There are two open club sessions each week. On Saturday 10am – 12pm and Wednesday 7 – 8.30pm. You can come to one or both.
Please note that during ‘summer’ (April - September) athletes register and train on the track.
During ‘winter’ (October - March) registration and training is in the Tennis Centre.
We operate additional training sessions for more experienced athletes.
There are two open club sessions each week. On Saturday 10am – 12pm and Wednesday 7 – 8.30pm. You can come to one or both.
Please note that during ‘summer’ (April - September) athletes register and train on the track.
During ‘winter’ (October - March) registration and training is in the Tennis Centre.
We operate additional training sessions for more experienced athletes.
What do I need to bring?
Wear clothing to suit the weather and the training environment (for indoor or outdoor training) and trainers – shorts, T-shirt, track bottoms and tops, waterproof top etc. A non-fizzy drink in a drinks bottle is a good idea. Spikes are a necessity at a later stage but are not needed initially. All equipment needed is provided.
Do you cater for adults?
AVEAC is predominantly a junior club for those aged 8 – 18 years. We do have a number of adult athletes who compete and train at a good level. Come along on a training session and have a chat to see if our club is what you are looking for.
I’ve not competed on a track before. Which competitions are best for me?
Definitely the Mini League ones at Moorways, Derby. Especially designed for newcomers, with all abilities competing. See the box below for more details
Do I need any special equipment?
Not really. Your yellow club T-shirt will suffice for Mini League, but if you intend doing Opens or are selected for league matches then you will need a club vest or girls crop top.
Everyone wears spikes. Do I need them?
Maybe not for your first competition, but if you intend competing regularly then they are essential. They give you good grip on the track, particularly during sprinting and jumping.
I don’t want to compete. Do I have to?
No, you don’t, but we are a competetive club (and not a childminding service) and take the stance that if you train you do it for a reason. Who knows what talent is hidden unless you give it a go! Most kids only need one occasion to get bitten by the track and field bug!
I think I’ll wait abit till I’m more experienced?
Not always a good idea! For one thing, we want to see what you can do now, and then we can make improvements to your technique or training or the event you do. Also, by August, most of the track and field season is over and that’s another year gone. The Mini League is great for lower-level competition.
If I compete I won’t know what to do, will I?
Don’t worry. There are always plenty of club coaches around to show you where to go and what to do and you’ll pick it up very quickly. When it comes to dealing with youngsters the officials are always helpful and friendly and used to dealing with inexperienced competitors.
I’m only 12. How come I’m competing as an Under 15? Surely that’s not fair
As fair as it can be. Athletics age groups, by and large, go by school year, and each age group has 2 school years within it. One year you’ll be one of the youngest, the next year you’ll be one of the eldest.
I’ve moved up an age group. I’m worried that I’ll get thrashed!
That’s unlikely as you won’t be the only one to have moved up. Yes, you might struggle to get the same level of succes you might have had in your previous age group. Think of it as a consolidation year – one to build on, and set yourself realistic personal goals.
A lot of competitons are for ‘selected athletes’. How do I get selected?
Naturally, for league competitions we want to take our strongest team. To be part of that we need to know which events are your best, and how your times / distances compare to other athletes in the club. If you are new to the club the only way we can do that is to be keen and get competing yourself in non-league events (of which there are plenty).
My parents are busy people. They can’t take me to competitions.
For most of our league competitions we go on a coach and athletes are well supervised if parents can’t come.
What happens if I’m quite good and start competing at a higher level?
Club coaches, depending on your event, will monitor your progress and may offer additional training opportunities, guidance on competition and set targets.