FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When is Little Athletics held?
Little Athletics runs through summer, from early October through to the end of March the following year.
Competition for the summer season is generally held on a Saturday morning and is split into two sessions:
U6 – U8: 8.30am – 10.00am
U9 – U17: 10.00am – 12.30pm
Location: Dolamore Reserve, Corner Queen and Second Street, Parkdale VIC 3195.
We usually have one or more Friday twilight sessions each season, which are held from 5.45pm – 9.00pm for all age groups.
We also hold Centre Training for all age-groups on Wednesday afternoons between 5 and 6pm during the season.
Refer to the calendar of events on our website for a list of the competition dates and times.
How do I register?
Registration can be completed online through the LAVic website. Registrations open late August. Click HERE for more Registration information.
What events will my child participate in?
Our U6 Athletes start out with On-Track Sessions, which are fun activities designed to teach the basic skills of Athletics. They then move into events such as 70 and 100m Sprints, 200m, Long Jump, Shot Put and Discus.
As the children grow they are progressively introduced to more technical events such as High Jump and Hurdles. Longer distance running events such as 400m, 800m and 1500m are also included, as well as Walks and Triple Jump.
Can my child have a free trial session?
Yes. Please click here to register for up to 2 trial sessions, but note that performances during free trial sessions won't be recorded, therefore if you're sure your child is keen please complete a full registration up front instead of a trial.
What age group will my child be competing in?
Little Aths runs for age groups Under 6 to Under 17.
Age groups are calculated based on the child's age as at 11:59pm on 31st December (in the middle of the season).
Some examples are:
If the child turns 10 on or before the 31st December, they will be an Under 11.
If they turn 10 on or after 1st January, they will be an U10.
A child who turns 5 on or before 31st December may start that season as U6 Athlete in October, and will move to U7 the following season.
A child who turns 5 in January/February/March may join in the remainder of that season as an U6 Athlete as soon as they turn 5, but will remain as an U6 Athlete the following season.
How much does Little Athletics Cost?
Please click here to check our Registrations page for membership costs.
What happens in extreme weather?
Cancellation of weekly competition programs can occur throughout the season due to wet weather or excessive heat conditions. If you think that the program maybe cancelled check the Mentone website before the session. The decision to cancel a program is not taken lightly and is made by Centre Executives with the safety of athletes and officials as their prime concern
Are parents required to be in attendance?
All athletes must have a parent or guardian in attendance at all times. The Centre and Team Managers are not responsible for children left unattended.
Do I need to wear my Registration Chest Patch?
Yes! Your Registration Chest Patch includes a barcode which identifies your child in the results system. Without a patch results cannot be recorded.
What is the duty bond?
All parents are required to assist with duties throughout the season. Once the required number of duties is completed the duty bond will be refunded. Click here for details.
What are parent duties?
Each week around 60 helpers are required to assist with the running of events.
Duties do not require any specialist knowledge and our committee members are always available to provide guidance if you are unsure on what the duty entails.
Starter's Marshall - Assemble athletes at start line for each track event, communicate with finish line.
Finish Line Marshall - Hand-out place markers, remove athletes safely from the track, assemble athletes at finish line area, escort in required order to recording tent and handover paperwork.
Canteen - Serve food & refreshments in the Club Canteen.
B.B.Q - Assist with cooking of BBQ.
Is there any coaching available?
We run Centre Training on Wednesdays from 5pm until 6-6:30pm during the season. All Mentone Athletes are invited to attend. In addition, Mentone Track & Field centre has a number of qualified coaches with Athletics Australia & Australian Track & Field Coaches Association. Please visit our Coaching Page for more information.
Is there any competition outside of the Centre?
Yes there are a number of region and state events available to athletes to compete in. Many centres also hold open days. Refer to the LAVic website for a listing of other events and competitions. https://www.lavic.com.au
Is my child required to wear a uniform?
Uniforms are not compulsory for our regular Saturday morning sessions at Mentone. However, the are compulsory when competing against other centres. The Mentone uniform consists of a fluoro yellow top with black markings and black shorts.
Please click here for our Uniform page for more detailed info.
The uniform shop is open most Saturdays between 9.30am – 10.30am.
How can I get involved?
Our Centre is run by a dedicated team of volunteers and we're always looking for more help. We offer discounts for the children of committee members, team managers and starters. If you think you can help please contact mentone@lavic.com.au. Please click here for more information on how to get involved.