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Athletics and Cross Country Academy

Mission Statement

‘For Yeovil College to become a nationally recognised sporting centre of excellence'

Academy aims

Athletics at Yeovil College has a long and proud tradition of developing athletes to perform at the highest level of competition. Several athletes have gone on to represent Great Britain at a number of Olympic Games in a variety of athletic events. Students regularly represent the County at regional and national events. Many students have represented England and Great Britain at junior and senior level.

The Athletics Academy caters for all athletic disciplines providing a highly committed and motivated training environment for all abilities and specialisms.
The academy aims to help students fulfil sporting potential in conjunction with the demands of academic study.
Many students also gain appropriate coaching and officiating awards whist at college and support the community in a variety of events and competitions.

Academy programme

Students have access to a 12 hour programme which includes technical coaching and preparation, strength and conditioning, competition and appropriate support with regards to medical, nutritional, psychological, lifestyle and performance analysis.
Academy athletes can book sports therapy and massage on site for a discounted rate. The college has also created appropriate links with Chartered physiotherapists for screening and treatment.

Staffing

Bill Whistlecoft - level 4 coach sprints and hurdles
Andrew Roda - level 3 / 4 coach shot and discus
Stuart Richards - level 2 / 3 coach
Paul Wych - level 2 endurance
James Quirk - level 2 jumps

Facilities

The athletics academy is very fortunate to have access to state of the art facilities for athletes with the highest ability and potential. Facilities are available all year round to allow for elite athletic preparation. Facilities include:

• 8 lane synthetic athletics arena
• Sports hall
• Weight training gym with extensive free weights, Olympic bars and rubber discs
• Dartfish video analysis

Competition opportunities Athletes have the opportunity to compete throughout the year in a range of local, regional and national competitions to include: South West Colleges Area, county, south west, national schools competitions Indoor and open competitions

Partners

Yeovil College has a strong partnership with Yeovil Olympiads Athletic club.
Many athletes new to the sport have gone on to join and compete for the club in the Southern Men's league and South West league competitions.
The College also has strong links with England Athletics South West in terms of developing and maintaining a high standard of athletic provision.
We also host coaching and officiating courses throughout the year.