Sport4All Joins Forces with Athletics Victoria

Levelling the Athletics Field: Sport4All Joins Forces with Athletics Victoria

Victoria’s athletics scene is about to get a whole lot more inclusive! Sport4All and Athletics Victoria (AV) are joining forces in a powerful new partnership. This dynamic duo is on a mission to break down barriers and open up the world of athletics to everyone in the Victorian community, no matter their ability.

“Athletics Victoria is excited to be partnering with Sport4All this year, and we are keen to see our clubs engage with this initiative too. The Sport4All resources are a great asset to community sport, and will provide us with the support and knowledge to create more inclusive environments on and off the athletics track,” said Meredith Hodson, Metro Development Leader at Athletics Victoria.

“We’re excited to partner with Athletics Victoria, a renowned organisation with over 140 affiliated clubs and a rich history in athletics across Victoria,” said Jeremy O’Sullivan, State Manager for Sport4All. “Over the next 12 months, we will support the education of inclusive practices for all AV members. Having our State Sport Inclusion coach as an Athletics athlete themselves will help support both organisations with how best to translate and tailor the Sport4All resources for the benefit of people with disabilities wanting to get involved in athletics through the many pathways, as an athlete, a coach, or official.”

A man with a prosthetic leg runs on an athletics track. He is wearing a backwards hat, a black t-shirt, and shorts. The track stretches behind him, lined with green grass on either side. On the left of the image the Sport4All logo and Athletics Victoria logo are shown.

This strategic partnership will provide AV staff and clubs with valuable education and resources to cultivate inclusive environments. These initiatives will empower people with disability to participate fully in athletics, on or off the track. Sport4All is committed to supporting the successful implementation of this partnership.

Maria Strong, a former athlete and current Sport4All Inclusion Coach in Victoria, will collaborate closely with AV clubs, offering ongoing guidance and support to ensure best practices in inclusion are embedded within the AV community. “I have been involved with athletics for about a decade now,” shared Maria. “When I joined Sport4All as an Inclusion Coach, Athletics Victoria was the first organisation I approached! I am thrilled about this partnership and look forward to working with them to see more people with disabilities involved in their events and clubs.”

By working together, Sport4All and Athletics Victoria are paving the way for a more inclusive future for athletics in Victoria. This partnership will empower AV clubs to become hubs of opportunity, ensuring everyone has the chance to feel connected and valued within the sport when, where and how they wish.

About Athletics Victoria

Athletics Victoria is the governing body for athletics in Victoria, boasting over 140 affiliated athletics and recreational running clubs across the state. With more than 7,500 registered athletes, officials, and coaches, AV conducts competitions and events for athletes over 12 years and of all abilities. Athletics Victoria is a Member Association of Athletics Australia and works closely with other athletics organisations in Victoria.

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Andrew Negrelli

“Inclusive sport matters to me because there is no I in team and everyone is included. Inclusive sport looks like one big happy family all together. I love sport because it keeps me fit and active, and I feel part of a team”

Andrew Playing Tennis
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