Harriers’ inclusive practices recognised

Perth Strathtay Harriers take great pride in providing a platform for athletes to reach their full potential.

And recently the club’s efforts in delivering good practice for inclusion in athletics and connected learning were recognised at UK-level.

National club manager of scottishathletics Lindsay McMahon visited the Fair City shortly before the coronavirus lockdown and her report has now been publicised by UK Athletics.

“During my time there I observed several sessions going on during the evening,” said Lindsay.

“Firstly, they had an inclusive run, jump, throw session on for eight years+ and several of the athletes had a physical, sensory or learning disability.

“The young athletes took part in a range of activities and were all coached and encouraged in the same way.

“There were no obvious differences evident between mainstream and supported athletes.

“Once the young athletes session finished, a number of different groups turned up to train.

“This included a group of racerunners/ wheelchair athletes and a discrete disability group, or ‘Jim’s group’ as they like to be called.

“Each of these groups trained alongside the mainstream athletes and did a variety of activities.

“Jim’s group stayed inside for the majority of the winter phase session and participated in running and jumping activities before taking part in circuits.

“The club volunteers were on hand to support and reassure if any of the athletes needed a bit of assistance.

“The racerunners/wheelchair athletes had been doing track work which wasn’t easy as they had to battle against an extremely cold wind.

“What was interesting is that they use the track at the same time as other athletes and, to avoid any collisions, the club reinforces track etiquette to all the athletes.”

One of the assistant coaches Louise Brett received praise for her dedication and was highlighted as a role model to others.

“Louise Brett has been a member of the club for 12 years and started out as an athlete taking part in Sportshall athletics at school before joining the club,” Lindsay continued.

“She has seen the Harriers grow and develop as an inclusive club over the years and how they make adaptations (discretely) to accommodate the needs of the athletes.

“Louise competed as a T37 sprinter, reaching national standard, but due to injury had to give up sprinting.

“She is now back running in 5km events as a club member in addition to being an active coach.

“She enjoys coaching and helps with different groups as required, which is helping her gain varied coaching skills and knowledge, working with other coaches.

“Louise can be regarded as a role model for all the athletes in that she doesn’t let her disability hold her back and has a greater understanding of the barriers supported athletes have to overcome.”