NOTE: KTFC encourages non-specialized and multi-sided development for young athletes across all sports. To facilitate this, practice attendance and participating in competitions is not mandatory, however, it is strongly recommended.

Membership type (competitive vs training)

Athletes are given the option to select a “competitive” or “training” membership when they register with KTFC. Choosing a competitive membership will allow the athlete to participate in sanctioned track meets for the year. Therefore, the BC Athletics (BCA) fee attached to your membership is higher than the “training only” option. If the athlete is unsure as to whether they want to compete, they can always upgrade to a competitive type.

Programs are based on Athletics Canada’s Long-term Athlete Development  Model-Late Specialization Sports 

Fall and Winter Programs 2023-2023

Mini Track Rascals 3-5-year olds – This play-based program is focused on learning proper basic movement skills such as running, jumping, wheeling, twisting, kicking, throwing and catching. There are no competitions for this group. The program is once a week for 8 weeks.

Track Rascals 6-8-year olds – The focus of this program is on developing basic motor skills through fun and play. Athletes are introduced to various track and field events (sprinting, middle distance running, hurdles, long jump, high jump, javelin and shotput) learning the basic fundamentals through a simple format. Athletes learn structure and technique to prepare them for more technical training as they progress in the sport. Athletes have the opportunity to participate in an occasional fun 60m sprint race at KTFC track meets.  This program usually runs twice indoors and twice outdoors once a week for 8 weeks each time.

Junior Development (JD) Program 9-13 year olds – This program offers athletes fun training and competitive opportunities in all track and field events. The program starts in early November and runs until the end of March (indoor season). The outdoor season begins at the beginning of April typically, through to the end of July following the BC Junior Development Championships.  Athletes practice twice a week and usually have a ratio of about 70% training to 30% competition. They are offered the opportunity to compete both locally and regionally. Competition is not mandatory. Training takes place at the TCC indoor track in the winter and outside at Hillside Stadium in the spring/summer.

U14 – This program is the first step for athletes graduating from the JD program who wish to pursue track and field in a slightly more focused and committed environment. The program runs from the beginning of November to end of March (indoor season). The outdoor season begins at the beginning of April, typically through to the end of July following the BC Junior Development Championships.  Athletes train twice or more per week and typically increase their amount of competitions with the goal of improving their personal bests.  They usually compete every second year at the BC Summer Games and at 15 can qualify to make a National Legion Team.

U16 – This program offers athletes both veteran and  new to the sport alternatives in which they can either continue to specialize in certain events  or learn basic skills leading to specialization. Athletes from other sports sign up at this level to access speed/power programs. There is regular structured practice and a planned and periodized schedule. Athletes become more focused on one sport with sport and position-specific physical, technical and tactical training. The competitions for these athletes are provincial to national/international level with 40% training to 60% actual competition and specific training. Goals include making a provincial team, National Legion team, and competing at high school provincials. The season has both an indoor and outdoor season similar to the JD program, but can continue later into the summer depending on an athlete’s accomplishments.

U18/19/20 and Seniors – These programs offer both veteran athletes and those new to the sport alternatives in which they can continue to specialize in the sport of athletics. These athletes usually are in post-secondary institutions, sport clubs, training centres and professional sport. They have regular structured practice usually twice a day, have planned and periodization schedules for the year, and are focused on one sport /event. Training and competitions occur nationally and internationally and they are committed to being the best they can be. Goals include making a national or international team at this level.

Para-Athletes– Athletes with a physical, visual or intellectual impairment may compete in certain events based on their impairment rather than age. Overall para-athletes compete in almost all of the same events as able-bodied athletes with some exceptions. If you are a para-athlete interested in the program, please email the President of the KTFC by visiting the contact page.

Masters – This program is focused on athletes 35+ from beginners to competitive athletes. It offers a range of track and field programs depending on what coaching capacity there is in the Club. This age group can be recreational for those who enjoy track and field, but do not want to compete. Masters athletes typically train three times a week in our program and also participate in the indoor and outdoor season. Various meets are offered and include local meets, BC meets, BC Senior Games, and (55+). In 2022, Kamloops will host the 55+ Canada Games, and in 2022, Edmonton will host the Masters World Indoor Championships. Masters athletes compete for camaraderie and to attain a personal best. There are no qualifying standards for this age group as its sole purpose is for participation.