Every Athlete Has Their Own Journey

From Saturday mornings to state competitions and beyond

At ELAC, every child competes every Saturday simply by being part of their age group.  For many families, that's exactly what Little Athletics is all about - having fun, improving each week and enjoying being active with friends.

For athletes who enjoy competition and want to challenge themselves further, exciting representative opportunities become available from the Under 9 age group onwards.

There is no pressure to compete beyond club level, but the pathway is there for every athlete who wishes to pursue it.

Club Competition

Every Saturday morning, athletes compete in a variety of track and field events as part of their age group.  Throughout the season they:

  • Learn every event
  • Record personal bests
  • Earn club points and awards
  • Build confidence and skills

For many children, club competition is the perfect balance of fun, learning and friendly competition.

Open Days

Throughout both the track and field and cross country seasons, there are a range of open days that athletes of all ages can participate in for some friendly competition with other Little Athletics centres.  These open days are particularly helpful for U8 athletes to expose them to a multi-centre competition environment, prior to them being eligible to participate in regional and state events when they move to U9s. 

Northern Metro Region Championships

From Under 9 onwards, eligible athletes can qualify to compete at the Northern Metro Region Championships, including Track & Field, Relays, Combined Event & Relays.

Regional competition brings together athletes from Little Athletics Centres across Melbourne's northern metropolitan region.  It offers children the opportunity to experience a larger competition environment while representing ELAC with pride.

Athletes must register for these and pay the relevant fees.

State Championships

Athletes who qualify through the Northern Metro Region events progress to the Little Athletics Victoria State Championships.

Competing at State level is a fantastic achievement and rewards the hard work, commitment and improvement shown throughout the season.  Many ELAC athletes proudly represent the club at State Championships every year.

National Opportunities

Some events provide pathways to national competition, allowing athletes to compete against the best young athletes from across Australia.  While only a small number progress this far, the opportunity exists for any athlete who is passionate about developing their athletics.

Coaching to Help You Reach Your Goals

Our club-level Monday evening coaching sessions provide additional opportunities for athletes to improve their technique, fitness and confidence.

Whether your goal is to achieve a new personal best, qualify for Regionals or simply become more confident in your favourite event, our coaching program supports every athlete's individual journey.

Success Looks Different for Every Child

At ELAC, success isn't measured only by medals.  We celebrate:

  • Personal best performances
  • Trying a new event
  • Encouraging teammates
  • Building resilience
  • Improving confidence
  • Representing ELAC with pride

Every achievement matters.

 Your Journey Starts Here

Some athletes discover a lifelong love of athletics.  Others simply enjoy running with friends every Saturday.

Both journeys are equally valuable - and both begin at ELAC.