Law & District Launches New "Law Minis" Running Group for Ages 5–8
Law & District AAC has launched an exciting new initiative for the club's youngest aspiring athletes. The "Law Minis" group, aimed at children aged 5–8, held its first session on 23 October at Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility and will now run every Thursday for an hour.
The programme follows Scottish Athletics' new Let's Go framework, introducing children to the fundamentals of running, jumping, pushing and throwing in a playful, age-appropriate setting.
Club chair Martin Kay said the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
"The feedback has been great so far from kids, coaches and parents," he said. "Our Under-12 groups begin at age nine in both Carluke and Wishaw, but we want younger children to experience athletics in a fun environment and hopefully progress from Minis to junior athletes."
He also confirmed that the group will continue beyond the winter months, moving outdoors to the Wishaw track in spring.
The atmosphere at Law Minis is already lively and welcoming, with a strong sense of community forming among families, coaches and volunteers. Senior athlete Christine Neill, who also represents Scotland at veterans cross-country, has two young sons in the group, with husband Allan also a senior runner.
"Both boys love the group and are delighted to be following in mum and dad's footsteps," Christine said. "We tried other activities and they aren't easily impressed, but they absolutely love this. They first caught the running bug at the NL Half Kids' events and are thrilled to now be training every week. We'll definitely be signing up for the next block."
Coach Carrie Wotherspoon said the sessions capture everything that is special about introducing children to sport.
"Young kids naturally do the movements of athletics with ease, so exposing them to the track environment and giving them the opportunity to carry these skills forward is fantastic," she said. "It's a fun, safe environment – although a bit crazy at times! Our young leaders are really shining when delivering sessions and it's lovely to see everyone getting to know one another.
From a coaching perspective, I feel privileged to be on board. It reminds you what athletics is all about: nurturing talent, going back to the basics of movement and fun, and hopefully seeing our future stars develop in years to come."
With enthusiastic young athletes, committed coaches and strong community support, Law Minis is already shaping up to be an exciting new chapter for Law & District AAC.