The partnership between Athletics NSW and Little Athletics NSW has created a fantastic opportunity to update the traditional approach to athlete participation.

One longstanding concern has been the significant drop-off in participation among younger athletes. Many initiatives have been introduced to address this issue, and now the partnership has unveiled a new one: the Multi-Club Membership Policy.

The full policy from NSW Athletics can be read HERE.

In summary:

• For those aged 13 and up: They can hold a full competitive membership with up to two clubs.

  • Registration with their first club is done via that club's registration portal. For example, Athletics Wollongong's registration portal is HERE. This membership costs the full list price (though it can be cheaper using an Active Kids voucher or family discount pricing).
  • Registration for their second club is done via application, completing and submitting the form HERE. The cost for this can vary from club to club. A 'second club' membership with Athletics Wollongong, for example, is $40.
    
    

• For those aged 12 and under: They can hold one full competitive membership and a community membership with any number of other clubs.

  • Registration with their first club is done via that club's registration portal. For example, Athletics Wollongong's registration portal is HERE. This membership costs the full list price (though it can be cheaper using an Active Kids voucher or family discount pricing).
  • Registration for their second club is done via that club's registration portal; select a community membership (a family discount may also apply).

The system for 12-year-olds and under remains unchanged from last season. For instance, a 10-year-old could join their Little Athletics centre to compete at Zone and Region (Athletics Wollongong can only provide this eligibility for those in 13's and up). They may also wish to participate in AW's Wednesday meets. If they choose a community membership with Athletics Wollongong in addition to their full competitive membership with their Little Athletics centre, they would be eligible to break AW club records, earn points, win trophies, etc.

For those aged 13 and up (including Masters), there are some significant changes:

• Athletes can represent either club at higher-level events (details to be specified on entry).
• At State relays, they can compete for both clubs, but not in the same event or age group.

Exciting times!

The advantages of this scheme for individual athletes and clubs include:

• Allowing athletes to make informed decisions about the Centres and Clubs they join and/or compete with.
• Providing flexibility for athletes to engage with and receive athletics services from more than one Centre or Club.
• Ensuring Centres and Clubs can continue to deliver quality services and experiences to their current and prospective members.
• Maximizing participation and competition opportunities for members.
• Enhancing participation in team-based competitions by allowing Clubs to form teams with athletes who are not primary members of their Club.