Low Key Commencement
Illawarra Blue Stars opened the summer season on a low-key last Sunday, but officials put this down to a few factors. Many are still to receive their double vaccination, thus eliminating them from competition last Sunday. The club commenced on Round 1, and although numbers were down, a couple of personal bests were recorded on the day.
Round 2 will be conducted next Sunday, with commencing time being 2.00 pm for a 2.30 m start.
Country Accommodation
Meanwhile, the Club has secured accommodation for the Country titles in January and anyone interested should see the Secretary as soon as possible, as the weekend in Maitland will be a busy one. Many activities are set for the same time including a music festival that is expected to draw a number of people to the region, thus taking a lot of the accommodation.
Accommodation has been booked at Molly Morgan Motor Inn, only a few minutes’ drive to the track, and you can secure your accommodation at this motel by calling 4933 5422 and ask for Jan. You must state that you want one of the Blue Stars rooms. Good price, looks nice, has a pool, and close proximity to the track and shops. Do it now as accommodation is becoming limited in this area. When booking at this motel, you must take two nights.
All Schools Coming Up
Student athletes are gearing up for one of the major meets on the athletic calendar, the NSW All Schools. Bringing together students from all schools, this event is one of the biggest and will be welcomed by the student athletes. Although the Australian All Schools has been cancelled, NSW has decided to go ahead with the State, and many who have missed their own school carnivals will be happy this major event is part of the summer calendar.
Relay Interest
NSW Relays have also been slotted in but gives little time for clubs to organise due to lateness of the return of clubs. Any member of IBS wishing to contest the relays are urged to contact the Secretary as soon as possible.
Athletes are advised you must be registered to take part, and this can be done by going into the Athletics NSW portal (registrations). Little A’s clubs are encouraged to name Blue Stars as their senior club and use the Pathway the club provides to move through the age brackets.
Welcome to Former Members
The club is also encouraging former members of the club to make a comeback, and the pathway is there for people to move into coaching, officiating or return as a master’s athlete. Remember you don’t have to be a champion, just keen on the sport.
Any athlete seeking out a coach can contact 0409 307 325 and you will be put in touch with a coach of the events you are interested in. Coaching is a very worthwhile area of our sport with the coach playing a very important role in the development of the athlete. Accreditation is required but this can be obtained by making contact with the club IBS, and a pathway is created for you to move forward and play a very important role in not only the development of the club, but also the individual athletes.
Next Sunday’s program of events includes 60m, 200m and 800m with field events also, for all ages, both male and female. Come along and try and see how you go. Remember the club caters for all ages from under 8 right through to masters. Bring the family, bring your friends and enjoy an afternoon of sport that many have missed over the last 6 months.