Since 1983, Milford N.S. has been involved in promoting participation in athletics in our school. Sprinting, middle-distances, long-jump and relays are our main events. Every year we send a team of 50 or 60 talented young athletes to the Primary Schools’ Sports (P.S. Sports) to represent our school in competitions with about 20 other city schools. Originally this event was held in Glenstal each May/June, but in recent years it has been transferred to the running track in U.L.
The Athletics Strand of our P.E. curriculum is covered in September and October each year. This gives the children an opportunity to focus on various aspects of athletics in preparation for the Qualifiers for the P.S. Sports, which typically takes place in mid to late September. One afternoon is devoted entirely to athletics and children from 1st to 6th classes take to the pitches in U.L. to experience athletics first-hand and to decide who will represent their school in the P.S. Sports the following May. Roughly 30 boys and 30 girls are selected based on their performance in the following events and age-categories to join the Athletics Team for the year;
Over 12 : Long jump, 600m, 100m, 4x100m relay.
Under 12 : Long jump, 400m, 100m, 4x100m relay.
Under 11 : 200m, 100m, 4x100m relay.
Under 10 : 200m, 100m, 4x100m relay.
Under 9 : 100m.
Under 8 : 80m.
After-school coaching in preparation for the P.S. Sports takes place on Friday afternoons, 3-4pm, in late April and early May. The main focus of these sessions is relays and the long jump. Participation is not solely confined to members of the Athletics Team. Coaching takes place at the long jump pit at the running track and also on U.L. pitches.
