The
New South Wales Primary Schools Sports Association Handbook states in
Section 5: State Carnivals 5.1.2(c) .
State
Carnivals shall be conducted on a Boys/Girls basis. The concept shall
apply to all events for all children 8-13 years within the concept
of New South Wales Primary School Sport.
The
basic and underlying aim of sport in the curriculum is to provide an
integral part of an individuals development, involving a variety of
learning experiences. The NSWPSSA confirms that this aim is achieved
by the provision of opportunities for competitive sport. Through organised
competitive sport the learner will be afforded the opportunity to:
- increase
levels of fitness
- develop
a variety of skills
- develop
understandings and socialise
- participate
in physical activity
- develop
decision making skills
- develop
self esteem and self discipline
The programs
cater for gifted and talented students between ‘…8-13 years within the
K-6 concept.
Whilst we
recognise that State Sport Organisations allow participation of younger
competitors in their events, the New South Wales Primary Schools Sports
Association believes that children under the age of 8 lack the physical,
emotional and social maturity to compete at the State Carnival level.
Opportunity to participate will be available for these students in future
years. The placing of undue pressure on the six or seven year old elite
athlete is unnecessary and inappropriate.
The National Junior Sports Policy states‘For
children in the first stage (5-7 years approximately) formal or structured
competition is inappropriate.’
The decision to allow the ‘young competitor’
to compete at school carnivals is the decision of the school. At each
school level, the decision to allow participation of a student less
than eight years old rests with the ‘local’ governing body.
In all individual events (ie Swimming and
Athletics) competitors will participate in the events nominated for
that age group. Students will compete in the events according to their
age, that is, the age they turn in the year of competition.
e.g. A competitor turning 12 in the year
of competition shall compete as a 12 year old.
Events nominated as Open Age will be open
to all competitors within 8-13 years within the K-6 concept.
Participation at State Carnivals will be
based on rules the as stated in 5.1.2(c)
|
