Harriers welcome new athletics development officer
A keen young sprinter is aiming for a personal best to boost
the activities of a Vale of Glamorgan-based athletics club.
Working on a part-time basis as the new development officer with
Barry and Vale Harriers, under the direction of chairman Fred
Malkin, James Moore will also liaise with the Vale of Glamorgan
Council’s Dragon Sport and Sports Development teams.
The plan is to attract new members, coaches and volunteers to
the Harriers who train at Barry's Jenner Park Stadium.
In his post, which is grant funded by the Welsh Athletics
Association, James will focus on the three main disciplines, namely
run, throw and jump, while, as far as possible, linking with local
primary achools.
The main evening for junior training at the Harriers is a
Wednesday, and James said: “Novices and budding talent aged eight
and over can enjoy a taster of all disciplines we offer. The club
focuses on fun and variety whilst providing a competitive
environment in the hope that the athletes will specialise at senior
level in their chosen discipline.”
Also on James' timetable will be summer athletics schemes at
Jenner Park (23-27 July) and Cowbridge Cricket Club ground (20-22
August).
Set up by the Sports Council for Wales, Dragon Sport offers
opportunities for seven to 11 year olds in a range of sports,
including athletics, and Vale officer Rachel McGuinness said: “We
provide clubs like the Harriers with as much support as possible.
For example, when the Harriers attract more coaches we, in turn,
can then help them with identified coach education training.”
Harriers train every Monday and Wednesday (6-7.30pm) and the
cost is just £1.50 or £1 for members per session.
Anyone interested in coaching or becoming a member or volunteer
can contact James on 07926 864124 or visit www.firststepskills.co.uk.
Volunteering can involve a host of invaluable duties including
collecting monies, assisting with transport, writing newsletters or
helping with general administration duties.
For more details on Dragon Sport, telephone Rachel on (01446)
704681.
Caption: New athletics development officer with
Barry and Vale Harriers James Moore (centre) is pictured with young
club members, who were enjoying one of their weekly training
sessions, officers and supporters.