What is FAST?

FAST stands for Fundamental Athletics Skills Training, a fun and engaging 8-week program designed to introduce children to the core skills used in Little Athletics. The program uses a variety of games, fundamental movement activities, and modified competitions to teach essential athletics skills in a way that is enjoyable, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate for young athletes.

Who Runs FAST – And Why?

Before launching a brand-new Little Athletics Centre, Little Athletics Queensland offers the FAST Program as a way for local communities to explore interest and participation levels.

This program gives parents, children, and community representatives a firsthand experience of what Little Athletics can offer—without the commitment of starting a Centre right away.

How Does It Work?

FAST is delivered by local community members, with support and guidance from Little Athletics Queensland. We make it easy for new communities to get started:

We Provide:

• Complete weekly training session plans
• All required equipment to run the program effectively
• Training and guidance for community representatives on how to deliver each session

You Provide:

• A local space (oval, park, school field, etc.)
• Community volunteers or leaders to run the sessions
• Enthusiastic children ready to have fun and get active

By the end of the 8 weeks, communities can assess local interest and decide if they want to proceed with establishing a full Little Athletics Centre.

Program Structure

Each session runs for 1 hour and includes:

• Warm-Up Activity – Group games to activate bodies and minds
• Running Activity – Sprinting, relays, modified hurdles and fun races
• Jumping Activity – Modified long jump and high jump
• Throwing Activity – Skills for discus, and shot put events
• Optional Bonus Activity – Based on group size and interest

Each activity lasts 10–15 minutes, ensuring sessions are fast-paced, engaging, and full of variety.

What Children Will Learn

• Basic running, jumping, and throwing techniques
• How to work as part of a team
• Sportsmanship and participation
• Movement patterns to build confidence and coordination
• Introduction to athletic competition in a friendly, low-pressure way

Modified Competitions

Throughout the program, children get to put their skills into action with modified competitions that simulate the structure of a Little Athletics meet. These are designed to be fun and inclusive—not performance-focused—and help build excitement and confidence.

Who Can Participate?

FAST is designed for children aged 5–12, and welcomes all ability levels. Whether a child is new to sport or already active, the program provides a great way to build skills and meet new friends.

It’s also ideal for:

• Schools and rural communities without a current Little Athletics Centre
• Regional towns exploring the feasibility of a Centre
• Community organisations wanting to encourage physical activity in kids

Benefits of the FAST Program

• Develops core athletics skills through structured activities
• Improves fitness, coordination, and confidence
• Brings communities together through sport
• Ready-to-run package – no experience needed
• Gateway to Little Athletics – try before committing to a full Centre

What Happens After FAST?

If there’s strong interest from parents and community members after the program concludes, Little Athletics Queensland will guide you through the process of starting a new Centre, including governance, affiliation, training, and ongoing support.

Get Involved

If your community is interested in bringing the FAST program to your area, or you’d like to learn more about starting a Little Athletics Centre, contact Shaun Lethem on s.lethem@laq.org.au

Let’s get your community moving!