Sportshall Handbook 6th Edition

SECTION 1

INTRODUCTION

SPORTSHALL - HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY Sportshall Athletics… • Is fun, bright and colourful • Provides safe, indoor and enjoyable multi-skill activities • Appeals to young people, parents, coaches and teachers alike WEB COPY ©EVEQUE Sportshall Athletics was created in 1976 by George Bunner so that youngsters at his local athletics club could continue to train indoors on dark winter nights. Sportshall became so popular that a format for competition soon developed and the first UK Championships were staged in 1980. Originally developed for the 12–15 year age group, George has continued to improve and develop the concept. Sportshall programmes now cater for youngsters aged 4 to 16. There are five key factors at the heart of the Sportshall concept Enjoyment - It is believed that children learn most effectively through play and positive experiences. Sportshall programmes are most definitely designed to be fun! Fair Play - Sportshall promotes fair play at all times. It is appreciated that children make mistakes and so penalties may be incurred, but disqualifications should not be considered. Flexibility - Having recognised the need to “take the stadium to the people”, Sportshall programmes are designed to be flexible and appropriate in a broad range of facilities. Potential Talent - Future stars are protected through the provision of activity that places the emphasis on team performance rather than the promotion of individuals. Ability - All round ability is encouraged in the view that specialisation at an early age should be avoided. Benefits: • Promotes and encourages multi-skills development - e.g. agility, balance and coordination (ABC’s) • Ease of introduction assists the non-specialist PE teacher and non-qualified teaching support staff • Enhances the teaching of athletics • Suited for use within Physical Education and After Schools learning environments • Encourages high levels of participation and provides opportunities for all-abilities • Offers competitive opportunities at primary and secondary ages • Supports the transfer age providing an introduction to the secondary school and opportunity to report results • Significant opportunities to involve Sports Leaders in delivering activity and competition • Complements the county development model supporting club links, club activity and county squad work WEB COPY ©EVEQUE

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