Vision: A regional network of strong clubs integrated within the principles of LTPD

Current snapshot: In the Forth Valley there are 5 clubs affiliated to Scottish Athletics and provide regular training and competition opportunities for athletes of all ages in a range of events and both have development plans in place.

2009 Targets: SportCentral Athletics will support clubs to

Review and strengthen the current club structure to achieve sustainability, increased capacity and growth

• Use their development plans to identify their individual club needs and implement agreed actions

• To develop satellite clubs to allow all children across the central region in Run Jump Throw clubs to access Athletics opportunities

• To increase access to funding opportunities

• To retain U 23 athletes to senior level through reward and recognition

Central Athletics Club are working towards their coaching plan and reviewing club structure.
The club currently has over 300 members from U11 to masters, development is needed at U17 and U20/U23 level.
Falkirk Victoria Harriers has 169 members from U11 through to masters, development is also needed in the U23 section

In November 2006, the Coaching Committee was set up with 4 key coaches. The group developed a transition/induction group with a structured feeder system for Run, Jump, Throw (RJT) children into the Club with the guidance of Active Stirling's Sports Development Officers.

A needs analysis was carried out at the initial meeting, as a result of this an Athlete and Coaching Action Plan was developed. It was identified that the structure of the club needed to be developed to ensure a clear pathway for Athletes and Coaches. The development of the club structure has been re-assessed in line with the intake of RJT children and coach requirements and has been published on their website to inform parents and club members.

By February 2008 scottishathletics and SportCentral aim to have both clubs clubmark accredited with a coaching plan in place, a reviewed club structure and implementing actions with disability inclusion.

Falkirk Victoria Harriers have recently set up a Club Development sub-committee with 3 committee members and 2 new volunteers to look at athlete and coach pathway and club structure. Volunteers were also recruited for coaching, administration and website development.

From their volunteer recruitment drive 15 volunteers signed up and 40 people comprising of parents/members/coaches attended the Club Open Meeting. Following this meeting 5 new committee members were recruited.