Five Bacchus Marsh little athletes selected for state squad

FIVE Bacchus Marsh Little Athletics Centre athletes have qualified for this season’s Victorian junior development squad.

Alexis Farrell, Emilia Ibrahim, Evelyn Grant, Nyah Halfhide and Caleb Hurst will take part in the clinic-style opportunity to showcase their talent in one or more disciplines.

“A lot of the children do strive to be part of the junior development squad because it is a state recognised squad,” BMLAC committee member Linda Thompson said.

“It’s a bit of an honour to be selected in that squad.”

The athletes had to meet certain criteria to become part of the group.

“They apply to be members of the junior development squad, but they had to meet a qualifying standard,” Ms Thompson said.

“There’s a table that’s standardised off the state results so if they meet those qualifying standards they are able to apply.”

Training days will be held across the state, and the group can learn from state coaches.

“There’s state coaches there that will take them in the discipline they’ve qualified in,” Ms Thompson said.

“It’s a great opportunity because not all kids get the opportunity to have their own coach.

“Sometimes it’s good to get a little bit of a different overview from coaches, sometimes they may pick up some additional tips.”