Athletics

Expressions of interest are now open

Register Here

The NIAS Athletics program is part of a partnership with the Regional Academies of Sport (RAS).

This program provides a high‑performance development pathway for talented young track and field athletes, focusing on technical skills, strength and conditioning, athlete education, and personal growth. 

Athletes receive targeted skill development, seasonal training support, and preparation for high‑performance races. The program includes practical education in areas such as S&C, nutrition, sports psychology and injury management, along with opportunities to represent NIAS at events, inter‑academy sessions and camps.

 

Program Partners

Selected athletes receive:

  • High‑quality coaching in a squad environment
  • Access to quality training facilities
  • Strength & Conditioning assessment and programming
  • Sports science testing and high‑performance training support
  • Opportunities to represent NIAS at events
 

Additional NIAS benefits:

  • Access to Lumin (Academy athlete performance and management platform)
  • Support for award and scholarship nominations
  • Community engagement and corporate partner exposure
  • Promotion through NIAS media channels

Program Eligibility Criteria

Athletes must:

  • Turning 13 or 17 in 2026 
  • Be committed to progressing to higher representation within Athletics.
  • Athletes must meet the performance standards for their event(s) as outlined by Athletics Australia – Athletics Australia Performance Standards 2025
  • Be a registered member of an Athletics club within the Northern Inland region.
  • Reside in one of the following LGAs: Armidale, Glen Innes Severn, Gunnedah, Gwydir, Inverell, Liverpool Plains, Moree Plains, Narrabri, Tamworth, Tenterfield, Uralla, and Warrumbungle.
An athlete scholarship levy will apply, covering the above listed program benefits and more. Uniform costs are additional, with Athletics‑specific and NIAS items purchased through the official supplier. Additional event costs may apply.

Program Delivery Period
October 2026 to April 2027

Key Dates
TBC