PaceSetter Book

Indoor Competition 9

9.1 Introduction(FIA & SHA)

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. WEB COPY ©EVEQUE 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. WEB COPY ©EVEQUE 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. MANY CHILDREN CAN DO LOTS OF ACTIVITIES IN A SMALL SPACE WHEN TIME IS LIMITED.

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