Indoor Competition
9
The original idea of Sportshall Athletics was to establish a form of winter indoor athletics competition,
which could be accommodated within the confines of a sportshall or gymnasium. The concept has
now been extended to include a whole range of ‘Fun Athletic’ activities which can also be organised
outdoors. The full range of activities play an important role in many Athletic Development schemes.
Sportshall Athletics provides the opportunity for young people to take part in a form of indoor track
and field activities during the winter months away from the vagaries of the weather. Participation in
the activities brings the excitement and fundamental skills of track and field athletics into the school
gymnasiums and leisure centres. It gives young people an introduction to athletics using specialist
equipment such as the ‘Reversaboard’, which enables quick turns to take place in various track races.
Adapted field events such as the Standing Long Jump, Vertical Jump, Speed Bounce and Soft Javelin
complete the programme, thus enabling large numbers of children to experience an exciting team
format whilst also learning basic skills.
MANY CHILDREN CAN DO LOTS OF ACTIVITIES
IN A SMALL SPACE WHEN TIME IS LIMITED.
Initially, a format and programme of competition was developed for the 11 to 15 year age groups
but it was soon realised that a complementary and more appropriate format for children in the
younger age group was required. Following considerable research, consultation and early pioneering
events involving touring around the United Kingdom, the concept of ‘Fun In Athletics’ was born
which enabled athletics to be introduced to children aged 8–11 years as an exciting team game.
When applying the rules for competition in Sportshall Athletics disqualification is seen as a last resort,
particularly with regard to the younger age groups. It is preferred that officials follow a policy of
correction and penalties whenever possible to avoid neutralising a result.
Sportshall Athletic competitions are presented in three stages to meet the requirements of the
developing child.
9.1.1 Stage One - Children Aged 8–11 years
For this age group indoor athletics is presented as a team game and referred to as ‘Fun In Athletics’.
All track races take on the form of relays and the field event scoring is based on Group Aggregate
performances. Team sizes should be large with programmes that include lots of ‘event stations’ so as
to provide an opportunity for the less talented. It is important for all children to fell part of the team
and contribute to the overall team performance.
9.1.2 Stage Two - Children Aged 11–13 years
For this age group indoor athletics is referred to as Sportshall Athletics. This is an age when children
are starting to get a little more independent and may wish to take part in their ‘own’ events. To meet
this desire, individual events can be introduced as part of a team competition complementing the
criteria given at Stage One, which still applies.
9.1 Introduction(FIA & SHA)
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