Getting kids into sport

There are some fantastic sporting bodies around Australia facilitating programs for boys and girls of all ages. Generally low cost and introducing children to the world of team sports, athleticism and casual competition, they’re a fun activity to participate in and can encourage good fitness habits early on.

AusKick

The NAB AFL Auskick program provides boys and girls with a fun and safe Australian Football experience that introduces them to a lifetime of involvement in the game.

Children learn the skills of AFL through weekly coaching sessions and activities with an emphasis on fun and having a go.

Last year Auskick attracted more than 182,000 children.

NAB AFL Auskick volunteers provide fundamental instructions and techniques to improve handballing and kicking skills along with other skills important in playing Australian Football.

Children registered in NAB AFL Auskick have the opportunity to be the 2013 NAB AFL Auskicker of the Year.

Registrations for NAB AFL Auskick 2013 are now open. To find you nearest centre, visit aflauskick.com.au

Little Athletics

After witnessing the disappointment in three young boys when he turned them away from competing in an athletics competition in 1963, Trevor Billingham knew there would be interest in a junior athletics program.

On the first Saturday in October the following year, Billingham met a small group of children on a Geelong oval and held a short program of running events. The interest quickly grew and in 1967 the Victorian Little Athletics Association was formed.

Children from 5 to 16 years can participate in Little Athletics and are offered a wide range of events from running, jumping, walking and throwing that are modified to suit their age and ability.

Australia-wide, more than 95,000 girls and boys participate in Little Athletics and the program’s emphasis on fun, participation, performance, technique and family involvement ensures its continued success and popularity with children and families.

Find your local Little Athletics Centre at littleathletics.com.au

NetSetGO!

NetSetGO! is Netball Australia’s junior netball program offering children from 5 to 10 years a positive introduction to netball.

Participation provides children with a weekly program where they develop skills and participate in minor games and modified matches in a fun and supportive environment.

The program is run by accredited coaches at NetSetGO! centres around Australia and along with the skills of the game, children build their physical fitness, sportsmanship and social skills.

Whether participation puts kids on the path to playing netball for Australia or developing an appreciation for the game, it’s an enthusiastic environment and introduces parents to the social communities of junior sports clubs.

In 2013, netball is heading out to schools and teachers, PE staff and principals are invited to become NetSetGO! School Ambassadors.

For more information about joining NetSetGO! or being involved in the Schools Program visit netball.asn.au.

Listen now for more tips on kids and sport with Todd Woodbridge!