Ready, set, smile: Little Athletics continues to grow in Narrabri Shire

ALI SMITH

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CHILDREN across the Narrabri Shire are running, jumping and throwing their way through another successful Little Athletics season, with participation continuing to grow and more young athletes progressing to representative competition.

Narrabri Little Athletics president Onika McConnell said about 73 children had registered this season, with numbers steadily increasing each year as families discovered and embraced the benefits of the sport.

Above: Elsa Gabbott. Left: Harriet Rogers, Onika McConnell, Zoe Wannan and Pip Gleeson.

Little Athletics has been around for decades, and it still draws a crowd.

“I think the variety is what attracts people,” Onika said.

Nyah McConnell and Austin Murphy.

“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.

James Hogg.

“It’s something that most people don’t get a go at until they come to Little As.”

Narrabri Little As has a winter season, which began at the start of Term 2 and has seen enthusiastic young athletes taking part in a range of track and field events each week on a Wednesday afternoon at Narrabri High School.

Above: Ruby Redding, Lucy Ando, Elsie McGregor, Indie Hogan, Evie Hogan, Blair Shepherd and Charlotte Kelly. Left: Caitlin Evans.

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.

Caitlin Evans.

“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.

Some of the dedicated Little Athletics volunteers getting the measurements just right at the high jump, Matt McConnell, Bruce Evans and Jessica Stuart.

“We’re growing…I think with growth comes more growth – which is exciting.”

Narrabri Little Athletics caters for children from tiny tots

Mia McConnell.

through to older teenagers, Onika explained.

Onika said she became involved in Little As through her own children, who love the sport.

Ryan McConnell.

It’s parents and carers like Onika who make Little As happen, with volunteers and families actively involved in each session.

As president of Narrabri Little As, Onika thanked the community for its support and said registrations were still open.

Charlotte Murphy.

With growing participation, strong family support and more athletes reaching representative competition, Narrabri Little Athletics continues to provide local children with opportunities to develop their skills, build confidence and enjoy being active in a fun and encouraging environment.