Narrabri Little Athletics has farewelled one of its most dedicated families, with the Evans family recognised for 15 years of service to the club at its annual awards presentation last week.
Held at Narrabri High School, the presentation marked a special occasion for Cathy, Bruce and their daughter Caitlin, who is finishing high school and her time with Little As.
“Today, we mark the conclusion of a truly remarkable chapter for Narrabri Little Athletics as we say farewell to our extraordinary committee and club members: Cathy, Bruce and Caitlin,” said Narrabri Little Athletics president Onika McConnell.
“We also want to extend this appreciation to Matt Evans. Whilst he is no longer part of this club, he has also been a very active club member and still shows up to support the club when he can,” Onika added about Caitlin’s older brother Matt.
“On behalf of the committee, the club and wider athletics community, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your outstanding dedication and leadership over the past 15 years.
“Your commitment, guidance, passion for excellence, your knowledge sharing, experience and support week in week out, for so many years, has helped shape Narrabri Little As into the club it is today.
“The contribution you have made will continue to be valued for many years to come.
“You have left a lasting mark on this club, and your presence will be profoundly missed.
“Thank you for your years of invaluable service, your countless hours of hard work, and the legacy you guys leave behind.
“We hope you enjoy a well-earned rest from Little As, but we do really hope you pop in from time to time.”
Little Athletics has been around for decades and still draws a crowd.
As reported at the start of the season, more than 70 children from across the district registered for Little As, with numbers steadily increasing each year as families discovered and embraced the benefits of the sport.
“I think the variety is what attracts people,” Onika said.
“Everyone gets to have a good run and do field events that they might not get to do very often or a chance to refine those skills.
“Things like long jump, triple jump and high jump.
“High jump is probably a big highlight.
“It’s something that most people don’t get a go at until they come to Little As.”
Onika explained that the focus is firmly on individual improvement rather than competition.
“Week to week, we do different events, and the idea is that you’re bettering your personal best,” she said.
“You’re not competing against each other until you get to the carnivals, which are optional.
“We’re getting more participants going through to zone, regional and state level from Narrabri.
“We’re growing…I think with growth comes more growth – which is exciting.”
There will be more photos from Little As awards presentation ceremony in next week’s edition.
