A programme focused on introducing age related skill activities to nudge young ones in the right direction to develop future athletic skills will take place with the beginning of the new school term this week.

As the Olympics came to an end and Term 3 of school began on Monday, a focus on athletics for the upcoming Youth Athletics for secondary school athletes and the Prince of Wales competition for primary schools will shift into place.

Athletics Cook Islands has been in schools since July 2020 introducing a new Kids Athletics development programme headed by World Athletics lecturer, coach and development officer Ruth Tangiiau Mave. 

The programme focuses on introducing age related skill activities that will aid children in developing the necessary strength, speed, coordination, balance and agility to reach their potential in the various disciplines offered by track and field events, using fun games and isolated activities. 

Mave says that by introducing games and non-adult ways of performing the events, children learn to develop the general motions required for the future.

Then as their brain function develops towards more intricate connections the finer technicalities can be taught, she added.

“For instance, holding and throwing a discus is more technical than it looks and is hard for small hands and young brains to comprehend. However, teaching them to throw a soft ring or small hoop, in the right arc and release towards or over a road cone, not only gives the child and mind body connection the correct progression of the arm, legs and upper body motion for discus in the future.

“It is also a lot more fun and gives children more time and opportunity to practice in a class situation than in the past where one discus exists for 20 – 30 children to learn from,” she said.

Mave with assistance from CISNOC, Volunteer Students Abroad and athletics development officers will be planning to work in primary schools and offer to teachers, parents and anyone interested in being a Kids Athletics facilitator the opportunity to become a qualified World Athletics Kids Athletics coach.

For more enquiries contact Ruth Mave secretaryaci19@gmail.com.