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Parents Role

VOLUNTEER ROLE

Little Athletics is a voluntary organisation, centres cannot operate without the assistance of parents each week in fulfilling the many and varied duties required. These include officiating at an event; managing an age group; recording results; working in the canteen; to name just a few. Most centres have parent assistance rosters. Additional assistance is always required on the centre committees and all parents are encouraged to become involved. Little Athletics is one of the few sports where parents can become fully involved in their child’s sporting interests.

At Little Athletics Queensland we understand that just like our athletes, our parents come from a diverse range of backgrounds and as such have different talents and experience. There is a place for everyone at Little Athletics and there are a number of ways that you can become involved. You may have skills that the centre doesn’t even know they need. So if you think you can help with something, let the committee know.

PARENTAL ROLE

Regardless of whether or not this is your first involvement as a Little Athletics parent, it is always worthwhile, at the start of each season, to consider what your role will be over the next six months or so.

Your child is in a sport that provides an opportunity for immediate and long term benefits. The benefits include: higher levels of fitness; better health; a pleasurable social environment and the satisfaction derived from skilled performances. Little Athletics can provide a launching pad for a life-long involvement in sport, whether it be elite or purely recreational.

Just as important as any of the above benefits is that Little Athletics provides children with the chance to have fun – TO PLAY. Please do not ever lose sight of this!

Unfortunately, all of the potential benefits of involving a child in a sport can be quickly lost due to one very important factor – ADULTS.

Do not underestimate the effect that you can have on your child’s long term participation in and enjoyment of sport.

By taking a considered, understanding approach, a parent can be their child’s most valuable asset.