Our Centre was formed on 18th June 1979 with the aim of providing children in our local community the opportunity to participate in athletics in a fun, supportive and family-friendly environment.
We encourage all athletes to enjoy regular exercise, improve their fitness, develop new skills, make friends, build confidence and leadership skills, and experience healthy competition.
We welcome boys and girls from Tiny Tots (3–5 years) through to Under 20, and proudly provide opportunities for athletes of all abilities, including children with disabilities.
Our Centre is supported by a dedicated committee and many wonderful volunteers who are committed to providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for every athlete and their family.
Little Athletics began in 1964 in Geelong, Victoria, with the formation of the first athletics club for children. From these simple beginnings, the sport quickly grew and spread across Australia.
In Sydney's outer west, a group of dedicated local residents shared a vision of providing children with the opportunity to enjoy track and field athletics. Their efforts led to the formation of Emu Plains Little Athletics Centre on 18 June 1979, at a meeting held at Emu Plains Public School.
The Centre held its first competition at Hunter Fields, Emu Plains, and became affiliated with Little Athletics NSW during the 1979/1980 season. In 1987, the Centre relocated to Leonay Oval, where it continues to operate today. Competition also moved from Saturday mornings to Friday nights to better suit members.
Today, Emu Plains Little Athletics welcomes around 450 athletes each season. During the Sydney 2000 Olympic year, the Centre reached a record membership of more than 700 athletes—an outstanding achievement.
As we celebrate 47 years of Little Athletics, we are proud of our history, our strong community, and the many athletes who have represented our Centre at Zone, Region, State and National level competitions.
No matter their ability, every athlete is encouraged to do their best, have fun, make friends, stay active, and live by our motto:
To Strive With Honour