A North Yorkshire community athletics club, launched following the pandemic to offer sporting opportunity for young people, has proved so successful they have a lengthy waiting list – and it has now also attracted funding from Broadacres.

Now, the Selby-based Vale of York Athletic Community is hoping to see a new athletics track built and to set up their own base in the town.

Currently they hold weekly sessions at Selby High School, offering coaching in a range of running, throwing and jumping disciplines for youngsters aged 5-16 as well as circuit training sessions for adults.

Broadacres, through our Community Development Fund, has provided a £350 grant to the club to help support children from low income families and also to cover costs of an athletics fun day this summer for local children.

“Athletics offers a chance for young people to try a range of activities helping to boost both physical and mental health,” said volunteer Assistant Coach Sarah Senior.

“It differs from other team sports which are all about winning in that you can enjoy athletics as an individual just for the fun and exercise or to challenge yourself with your own personal targets.”

Sarah says when the club started in 2021 after Covid it was immediately clear there was a need for an athletics outlet in Selby.

“There isn’t any other club within 15 miles and we found there was enormous interest. We are at the point now where we have around 100 children on the waiting list,” she said.

Following a campaign by the club the signs are promising for a new track to be built in the town and a permanent base for the club.

“That is the goal because we can then look to train and recruit more qualified coaches and provide additional sessions for those children currently on the waiting list,” said Sarah.

To find out more visit https://valeofyork.org

The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports local organisations, groups, and projects in areas where Broadacres has homes. All grants are approved by the Association’s own residents.

To apply to the Fund visit https://broadacres.org.uk/customer-area/getting-involved/community-development-fund/