Emerging Athlete Program

Program Overview

The WA Emerging Athlete Program (WA EAP) is a state-based development program to provide pathway progression for able bodied and para- athletes between junior and senior athletics within Western Australia. The program will assist in supporting and developing athlete and coach potential by focusing on: Experience, Education and Environment.

Program Objectives

Be the early identification element of the Athletics West performance pathway as the program sits below the Target Talent Program (TTP), Western Australian Institute of Sport program (WAIS), Athletics Australia High Performance programs in the athlete development pathway.
Motivate and inspire emerging athletes in the State by inviting them to be part of a state level development squad
Provide opportunity to connect with likeminded, aspiring athletes and coaches in the state
Engage personal coaches through collaboration, development opportunities and networking to assist athletes to reach their potential
Build upon athlete current knowledge, skills, and aid in their continued pursuit of success in both sport and life

Program Structure

The program is delievered across an eight month period with a mix of practical clinics and education seminars for coaches and athletes to attend. The program is facilitated by Athletics West and engages a range of service providers to ensure athletes have access to leading edge sports knowledge, facilities, and technology.

Program participants are required to pay a registration fee which contributes to the cost of program staff, sport science support and access to facilities. The program is an opportunity for both coaches and athletes to grow and improve as they progress through their athletic development journey. Coaches of selected athletes will be encouraged to attend all activities with their athletes.

Program Inclusions

Access to Bronze Level as part of Target Talent Program Award
Athlete education seminars (online and in person)
Athlete/ Coach practical sessions
Recognition on Athletics West website

Athlete Invitation& Eligibility Criteria

2024 Athlete Invitation Guidelines

Athletics West will invite athletes who meet the below selection criteria:

Placed 4th-8th place* at the 2024 Australian Track and Field Championships in age category event (Under 15 – Open able-bodied and para events) or;
Athletes selected for the 2023 Target Talent Program, who were not invited for the 2024 Target Talent Program, who are current Athletics West members.

*NB: Athletes who placed 1st-3rd in the Under 16 – Under 20 age groups at Australian National Championships have been invited for the 2024 Target Talent Program

Athletes who did not achieve the above, but meet the following selection criteria and would like to participate in the Emerging Athlete Program, can fill out EOI form with relevant performance information and will be eligible for selection to the Program:

Athletes who were unable to attend the 2024 Australian Track and Field Championships, but achieved a result twice within the 2023/24 Season that would have placed them in the top 6 results in the relevant age group and event at the 2024 Australian Championships or;
Open able bodied athletes (born 2003 or earlier) who achieved Athletics West Performance Matrix
Para athletes who achieved a performance equivalent to 75% of the Athletics Australia “B” Standard for the Tokyo Paralympic Games

Athlete Eligibility

All athletes selected for the WA Emerging Athlete Program , must be a current registered member with Athletics West
Age 14 through to Open as of 31 December calendar year
Be in good standing with Athletics West and Athletics Australia
Meet the selection criteria