Schools Introduction Pack
Dear Athlete/Parent
On behalf of the coaching staff of the OWLS Athletics Club, may I take this opportunity of welcoming your interest. Please find over the next few pages an outline of the activities and training we do – training which has provided Leicestershire with the UK’s leading Junior Athletics Club.
Whilst there are a variety of sessions available, we encourage athletes to attend one session per week on a regular basis. As you progress and your commitment increases, you may wish to train in your own time and come to more OWLS sessions. We will of course advise you of the methods of training you should apply and provide you with a training programme.
Our aim is to gradually develop you to your full potential in a fun environment, enjoying the success this brings as an individual and within the team. However, this takes a serious attitude towards what is a challenging sport.
Rest assured you will receive coaching by qualified and experienced coaches who will ensure you are prepared to the highest standards in meeting that challenge.
FROM BEGINNER TO INTERNATIONAL...
Training
There are a wide range of training opportunities available. The amount of training you do will vary depending on your AGE and ABILITY. As a basic guide the following suggested sessions may apply:
SCHOOL YEAR NO OF SESSIONS (per week)
6-7 1
8-9 1-2
10-11 2-4
12-13 4-6
We have the following sessions available:
DAY VENUE ACTIVITY
Monday Guthlaxton Community College, Steady run and circuit training
WIGSTON (6.45pm)
Wednesday Saffron Lane Sports Centre, Track and technique
Leicester (6.45pm) work
Sunday Bradgate Park, Steady "hilly" run 3 -12 miles dependant on ability
Newtown Linford Car Park
(l0.00 am)
Our main club nights are Monday and Wednesday.
WE CATER FOR
•:• ALL AGES
•:• ALL ABILITIES
•:• MALE AND FEMALE
RACING
The OWLS offer a very comprehensive list for athletes of ALL standards. There is no pressure whatsoever on BEGINNERS to take part in competition.
COMPETITION INCLUDES:
Summer
Leicestershire Road League Races
Midland Men’s Track and Field League
Young Athlete Track and Field League
Championship Races
Graded Open Track Races
Winter
Birmingham Cross Country League
Leicestershire Road League Races
County, Regional and National Championships
North Midlands Cross Country League
Schools Cross Country League
Indoor Athletics Meetings
All Athletes are able to take part in the vast majority of events. Very few events require selection.
HOLIDAYS AND RACES ABROAD - TRAINING CAMPS
In order to develop team spirit and to widen the competitive experience of our young athletes, we organise a range of trips and camps. Many of the trips involve adventure-type pursuits (hill walking, camping. Etc)
Season Usual Venue Duration
Spring Edale (Derby) 1-2 Days
Merther Moor (Wales) 2-3 Days
Altitude Training ( Font Romeu) 1-3 Weeks
Summer Merther Moor 2-3 Days
Training camps (Various) 2-3 Days
Edale 1-2 Days
Winter Edale 1 Day
Yorkshire (3 Peaks) 1-2 Days
Brussels 3 Days
Altitude Training 1-3 Weeks
A minimum age of 14 applies to some of the trips, but those younger do have many opportunities.
Cost Vary from: £10-15 Days Trips
£20 – 40 Weekend Trips
£100 - 400 Trips abroad ( Spain, Morocco etc)