🏃Quick Snapshot
- Who it’s for: Athletes aged 10–14
- Focus: Introduction to all athletic events (run, jump, throw)
- Training style: Structured sessions with a strong emphasis on variety and development
- Key themes: Fun, learning, and early competition experience
- Progression from: Run, Jump, Throw Group
- Progression to: Junior Endurance Squad, Sprint Squad (from ~14 years)
🧠 About the Group
The Junior Squad is where young athletes begin to explore athletics in a more structured and varied way. No prior athletics experience is required.
Across this age group, athletes are introduced to the full range of track and field disciplines, including sprints, middle-distance running, jumps, and throws. The coaching team aim is to build a broad base of skills, confidence, and enjoyment, helping each athlete discover what they enjoy and where their strengths lie.
Sessions are designed to balance learning and fun, creating an environment where athletes can develop while staying engaged and motivated.
🏃 What Training Looks Like
Training is varied, engaging, and development-focused. Sessions typically include:
- Sprinting and running technique
- Jumping events (e.g. long jump, high jump)
- Throwing events (e.g. shot put, javelin)
- Agility, coordination, and general athletic skills
- Games and group-based activities
Athletes rotate through different activities, ensuring they gain experience across all event areas rather than specialising too early.
Coaching focuses on building good habits, movement skills, and confidence in a supportive setting.
🏁 Competition & Opportunities
Athletes in the Junior Squad are encouraged to take part in competitions in a fun and supportive way. This may include:
- Track and field meets and leagues
- Cross Country events
- CAAC Club Champs
- Local road races and parkruns
The emphasis is on participation, learning, and enjoying the experience of competition, rather than performance pressure.
📈 Progression & Pathway
The Junior Squad is a key stage in the CAAC athlete pathway.
By experiencing a wide range of events, athletes are well prepared to move into more specialised training groups from around age 14. These include:
This approach ensures athletes develop well-rounded skills before focusing on a particular discipline.
🧑🤝🧑 Culture & Atmosphere
The group has a fun, inclusive, and energetic atmosphere.
Sessions are designed to be enjoyable and social, helping athletes build friendships as well as confidence in their abilities. Coaches create a positive environment where effort and improvement are encouraged, and every athlete feels part of the group.
🔗 Interested in Joining?
If you’re interested in joining CAAC:
👉 Visit our How to Join page
👉 Explore our other Training Groups to find the right fit.