For those who don't know, registered athletes of Little A's in the U12-U17 age groups are eligible for a 'Dual' membership category when they subsequently join an Athletics NSW-affiliated club (like Athletics Wollongong).
A Dual membership gives the same benefits as a standalone Concession membership (including the opportunity for State representation at Nationals, and access to Athletics Wollongong's meets, as well as those run by ANSW, like All Schools, State Champs, Allcomers, and so on), for a reduced price.
Since the scheme has been in place, the price for Athletics Wollongong Dual Membership has been $0 (i.e. a 100% price reduction). We can't guarantee that will be the case again at this stage, as we are still yet to be informed by Athletics NSW of the costs for registrations and our club affiliation next season. In any case, we can guarantee it'll be good value.
During the online registration process for Little A's (as part of Step "3. Questions"), the following is posed: "Do you wish to become a Dual Member for the upcoming Athletics NSW season?". Note that selecting 'Yes' does NOT convey ANSW membership. All it does is put you on a mailing list to alert you when ANSW memberships open (you can perform the same function by filling in the form here:
https://www.nswathletics.org.au/eventsrsvp/109303/). Note also, that if you select 'No' at this stage, you can still become a Dual member later.
To take on a Dual membership, you will be required to sign up via the Athletics Wollongong
portal once registrations open for Season 2021/22, reportedly in mid-late September. We will advertise the opening date, once known, widely on social media, the club website, newsletter, etc.
Lastly, for those who are new to Dual membership, here are some further tips:
- You do not need to wear a uniform, nor any number bibs, when participating at Athletics Wollongong's Wednesday meets; wear whatever's comfortable - we like to keep it social and relaxed.
- If you participate in an Athletics NSW-run event (see last year's Results for an indication of the range thereof), you will require an Athletics Wollongong uniform and ANSW number bib/s. You can purchase a uniform top at our club meets (or, if unable to, by other arrangement). Pants are an individual's purchase responsibility. They should be plain royal-blue, but black is also acceptable. Your ANSW number bibs are collected from athlete check-in at the first event you contest.
- All Schools is a bit of a special case; as it is ANSW-run, you can choose to wear either your Athletics Wollongong uniform or school sports uniform.
If you would like further information about Athletics Wollongong, poke around the website, check out our FAQ, read this year's Membership Guide, or - if questions remain unanswered - send an email to athleticswollongong@gmail.com.
See you soon!