The talented young sprinters of Ireland were in Santry Stadium, Dublin yesterday (Sunday September 2nd) for the first in a series of national squad days. Yesterday had three central themes:
1)Getting to know each other
2)Receiving information on the 2013 EYOF, World Youth & European Junior Championships (including a task on goal setting and time management)
3)Introducing them to the ‘push-pass’ method of baton exchange for sprint relays
The 39 athletes present (ably supported by parents and coaches) had a lot of information to take in, but the squad were full of smiles and enthusiasm! The push-pass will need practice, both in terms of technique and speed of movement, however these things can be practiced in training and they will be addressed again at the next sprint squad day on December 16th (also in Santry).
The next date in the diary, however, is the coaches day on September 23rd in UL (Limerick). We will focus our attention on the coaching of the push-pass, but there will be plenty of time to cover other coaching issues. Please let me know if you will be attending and if there is anything specific you would like covered prior to the 23rd (there has already been a request for the setting up of blocks).
The national hurdles squad (for athletes born 1998 & earlier) is on October 21st in UL (11 a.m. – 3.p.m.) and anyone making a national final is invited to attend, please txt (087 3724151) or e-mail (Hayley.harrison@coachingireland.com) me with your intention to attend the hurdles squad. Thanks.
Finally, returning to yesterday’s squad – Thank you to Karen Kirk and the athletes & parents/coaches for their input into the day; a lot was achieved, with a lot still to do. Thank you & WELL DONE!
