FAQ's
Q: Which age group/grade should I register my child in?
A: Your child's grade/age group is determined by their age as at 31st December of the current season. For example, if Jamie is currently 6 years old but will turn 7 before December 31st, Jamie would be Grade 7. If Jamie turns 7 in January, then they will be registered as Grade 6.
Q: When do you train?
A: Club Night is Thursday.
Q: What time does training start and finish?
A: Social athletes start at 4.00 pm and finish at 5.00 pm
Competitive athletes start at 5.00 pm and finish at 6:30 pm
Q: Can I drop and leave my child at Club Night or do I need to stay?
A: If your child is aged 8 years and under, then a parent or guardian must stay at the grounds for the duration of the session.
Q: How do I know whether to register my child as 'Social' or 'Competitive'?
A: A Social membership is best suited to new(er) athletes as it is a shorter season (Oct - Dec). There are four opportunities for them to have a go at competition. These are our December Club Comp day, the Alexandra and Wānaka Country Meets and the Colgate Games.
A Competitive membership is aimed toward more experienced athletes with a longer season (Oct - Mar). They can compete in all the club comp days, various interclub competitions, the Mini Multis and the Otago Champs. Competitive athletes are expected to compete in at least two major competitions.
Q: My child is 6yrs old - can I enter them as Competitive?
A: Any child from the age of 6 can compete in athletics events throughout Otago. We do suggest speaking with our coaches before choosing this option.
Q: Can my child wear spikes?
A: Athletes from Grade (Age) 10 and up are permitted to wear spikes. Spike can be no longer than 6mm.
Q: Do I have to purchase a Club singlet?
A: It is not mandatory to wear our black Club singlet on club night. We do encourage it as it helps foster the feeling of being part of a team.
Q: What uniform does my child wear to competitions outside of Wanaka?
A: Competitive athletes must compete in the club competition singlet. The singlet is only worn in competition, not at our weekly Club Night or in-house Saturday Club Comps. There is also an optional club hoodie with the option to have your child's name printed on the back.
Q: Do you offer additional training for children who are competing at Colgate Games, Mini Multis or Otago Champs?
A: Yes, we do - dates to be confirmed
Q: If I register my child as Social can we change to Competitive mid-way through the season?
A: Yes. There is an 'Upgrade' option available from November. Social athletes have a chance to experience a competition at our December Club Comp day before making a decsion. Keep an eye on Facebook page.
Q: I'd like to get involved either on the Committee or as a Coach - how do I do this?
A: We would love to hear from you! The club is run by volunteers and many hands make light work. If you would like to coach but haven't done so before we'd still love to hear from you. There is a CAD Level 1 coaching course being held in October. Please contact us on aspiringathleticswanaka@gmail.com