Athletics the way forward

Saturday, October 26 saw the Malta Amateur Athletic Association (MAAA) embarking on an ambitious project aimed primarily at creating awareness of the diverse aspects of athletics among children.

In itself this six-month programme differs from other development projects launched in the past in that the track and field activities will no longer be confined to late winter, spring and a couple of weeks or so in summer but practically throughout the year.

This diversity is thought to benefit child development. It is also in harmony with a national education plan. At the same time, the increased physical activity is meant to supplement the nationwide endeavours to introduce deeper involvement in sport.

The pioneering efforts within the MAAA to introduce this scheme came as a direct result of a seminar in spring, which advocated a plan to reach out to as many youngsters as possible.

The technical committee of the MAAA, under the guidance of the National Coordinator Geoff Ward, soon embarked on a UK Athletics inspired 'Star Track' event, that in itself proved to be much accepted and well attended.

Spurred on by this success, the committee went on to present a series of proposals notable among which, the introduction of a number of categories divided into two-year brackets.

The best feature in this system lies in that athletes can pit their energies in competition within a tighter age circle, avoiding the dangers of discouragement while offering a wider scope for success.

Moreover, the plan put forward stipulated that the lower-aged children in new categories 'cubs and kids', were to be introduced to basic concepts in athletics, speed, jumps, throws and endurance - four prerequisites a child needs to take part in meetings, organised between October and March, 'Miniathlon'.

In later years, once a youngster grows out of these categories armed with at least the basic techniques of the sport, it would be much easier for the now wiser athlete to identify with a particular discipline, or better still, to be multi-disciplined.

It is a strong MAAA belief that this approach will be instrumental to overcome the shortage in a particular area, mainly field events.

Eighty-four boys and 62 girls turned up for the first meeting, thanks to the efforts of the clubs and a number of schools.

While this number is quite satisfactory, a much larger participation from schools remains the ultimate goal. A number of coaches, university students, an ever present number of seasoned officials and athletes and other helpers, many recruited through the parents themselves, ensured the smooth flow of the activity.

As a direct result four events could be undertaken concurrently, with some even split again into series and engaged at the same time throughout the afternoon.

This unique scene at the Matthew Micallef St John Stadium was truly a delight to watch, with all the area being utilised to the full.

Educators, schools and indeed parents should take up the opportunity to come and see for themselves or better still sign up their 'protégés' to take part in the second meeting scheduled for November 23.

Anyone interested can contact the school P.E. masters for further details, any MAAA official or by contacting the MAAA on 21-488704 (maaa@global.net.mt).