CONSIDERING JOINING US?
We understand that choosing the right athletics or running club is a big decision. There’s no need to rush! We want you to feel completely comfortable and confident in your choice.
● Questions? We’ve gathered answers to some of our most frequently asked questions below.
● Want to know more? If there’s anything else you’re curious about, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re always happy to help and answer any queries you may have to help you explore what we offer.
● Try before you decide: We encourage you to experience what we offer firsthand. You are always welcome to come to a trial session before making a commitment to joining us.
● Read our reviews: Want an unbiased opinion? Take a look at our reviews.
Reviews
This was an excellent opportunity for the local children to do some timed athletics and have some fun. It's definitely sparked my son's interest in all of the events.
Fantastic club. Both my kids love the athletics club. They have made great friendship groups which have also spilled over into the weekly junior park run. The club has provided the opportunity for them to experience a real athletics stadium and cross country events which they have loved. VOYAC have also encouraged our whole family to be involved and we are all competing in the PECO cross country events this year which is a lovely family experience for us all.
Great event!
Fantastic day out with two great coaches - Ian and Beverley. Even helped me perfect a brand new long jump technique.
My sons Bailey and Declan came to athletics camp at the begging of August. At first they didn’t want to go and leave their computers,but they loved their first day there and couldn’t wait to go back again the day after. They both really enjoyed the three days that they went and asked straight away for me to sign them up again. Not only did they have three days off the computers and out in the fresh air, they also made new friends and you could see them beaming with confidence. I would recommend this to everyone as I’m sure the boys will do too. Thank you! ☺️
My daughter really enjoyed her time here .
my son joshua chittock came to sports activities on the 2nd 3rd and 4th of august he really enjoyed all three sessions i would love him to do it again in selby but he goes to selby high school in september so don't know if he can join again thanks kate - joshuas mum
Our two boys have been with the Vale of York Athletes Club since the Summer of 2022.It’s so refreshing to find a club that’s really got the children’s interest at heart. Ian and the team are really friendly and fun. Our boys have learned something new every week and really enjoy it. It’s a very sociable environment and run in a very professional manner. The fees are very good and as a parent you could not ask for a better club. Thank you Ian. We wish you all the best with the club moving forward.
My son has been interested in running and athletics from a young age ( he is in his teens now)but there has never been a club locally to support him. When I first saw a flyer about an athletic summer school in 2021 I signed him up. We haven't looked back since. He has thrown himself into everything the club has to offer. Running, speed training, field and track ( 100, 200, 400, 800 m, long jump) high jump club, sprint training, circuits, in door athletics, cross country. The support and encouragement from the coaches is first class. The coaches also take part in events which helps them to understand and support the younger athletes. Coaches also learn from the young athletes by talking and listening to them. Look how far the club has come in such a short time - Selby has been crying out for an athletics club for years and finally there is a team of people (volunteers) who are going to make this happen. The membership fees are very reasonable and they offer a family membership. A great club to be part off .... giving VOYAC five humongous gold stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My son (8) absolutely loves these sessions. The kids always have a great time and it's a fantastic way for them to learn skills, make friends and be healthy. The coaches are really encouraging and passionate about what they do. So lucky to have this in Selby.
My son is having a fantastic time at athletics club, he sometimes struggles with friendships as he does not like football and most of his school friends do, so it's been lovely to see him thrive with like minded kids who want to learn whilst having fun. The people are really friendly and encourage all the children too.As a parent I found myself wanting to join in as there was no pressure for the kids to be the best, it is more about being inclusive, having fun whilst being healthier and learning about athletics, health and fitness. So I joined the adults circuit class, at first I felt out of my depth but everyone is welcoming, and there are opportunities to differ the exercises if you are struggling or have an injury.We as a family are also learning about nutrition, which has been informative for us.I cannot recommend VOYAC enough!
I have been going to the 7pm circuits for a few weeks now and I can honestly say I have enjoyed every minute! My fitness level at the start was pretty dismal but with the help, guidance and encouragement of Ian & his team, as well as the rest of the class, my fitness levels are slowly creeping up! No one is judging me or my shape or size and I find that very nice. Can’t wait for the warmer weather so we can go outside and do our work outs! Thank you Vale of York Athletic Community for giving me this opportunity to improve my fitness and nutrition! X
After having my second baby I struggled to find the time, motivation and energy for exercise. VOYAC offers a range of sessions which cater for all abilities, and because there are a number of sessions on different days I can fit them around childcare and work commitments. All coaches are so friendly and the community as a whole are really supportive, exercise is no longer a chore, but a welcome break!
The weekly circuit sessions are fab! Really friendly and welcoming 🙂 The hour workout is fun and varied with different levels of intensity so you can pace yourself at your own level. Lots of encouragement and advice given throughout. It's Fab!
I am thoroughly enjoying the Thursday circuit sessions. People of all fitness levels are made to feel welcome, included and encouraged. It’s a friendly non judgemental atmosphere coupled with a weekly themed music playlist that we all get involved with choosing. Really gets the endorphins flowing. I can’t rate highly enough
My boys have absolutely loved the sessions at Selby High and it has inspired them to do the junior Park Run too! Thanks Ian and team 🏃♂️ 🏃♂️ 👍
My sons have thoroughly enjoyed the athletics on a Wednesday evening, thanks to Ian and the team, extremely professional and knowledgeable and very well done, thank you.
My son has loved the athletics sessions on a wednesday and can’t wait for more in the summer holidays! Would highly recommended ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a fabulous set of coaches. My son thoroughly enjoys the sessions at Selby. Looking forward to more. Well done Ian
My daughter has had a great time with the Vale of York Athletics Coaching team. She thoroughly enjoyed trying all the different events 😀
my son has really enjoyed the athletics sessions with VoYAC on a Wednesday. There is a range of activities available not just running but also throwing and jumping.
My daughter thoroughly enjoys these sessions and the coaches definitely add to the positive experience she has. They are so lovely and fun for the kids. It is fantastic to have something like this for the kids to do and we are very grateful to have the opportunity for my daughter to take part. Definitely valuable in our community. It is well run and organised.
We were looking for an athletics provision for our very active 8 year old so we jumped at the chance when we saw one being offered locally to us by VOYAC. Our daughter loves attending the athletics club and is always keen to go back every week. They have covered a wide range of events as part of the sessions and it’s been great to see all the children taking part.
A very well organised and run after school activity. All about achieving and developing to your best. Friendly, knowledgeable, approachable coaches who excel in supporting young athletes to achieve their best and try new activities in a fun environment. hope it continues running in the Selby area. We'll done all.
FAQ - Membership & Facilities
How much is membership?
Junior membership including coached athletics, circuits and road running sessions in-person and online is £13.50 a month.
Senior membership including coached athletics, circuits and road running sessions in-person and online is £13.50 a month.
Senior membership with coached road running sessions in-person and online is £40 a year.
Junior or student membership without any coached sessions is £25 a year.
All 11+ memberships include registration with England Athletics and Northern Athletics.
Discounts are available for two members of the same household.
We provide coaching services to the University of York. If you are a student in York please ask for a special rate.
When and where do you train?
SUMMER
Mondays grass track and field sessions at Selby High School from 5.45pm – 7.45pm.
Wednesdays endurance road running from Selby Leisure Centre at 7pm.
Saturdays track and field sessions at York St John University from 10.00-11.30.
WINTER
Mondays athletics and circuit training at Selby High School from 5.45pm – 7.45pm.
Wednesdays endurance road running from Selby Leisure Centre at 7pm.
Saturdays track and field sessions at University of York from 10.00-11.30.
OTHER
In addition to these formal coached sessions, members often meet up for parkrun and junior parkrun on Saturdays and Sundays in Selby and York. We use online coaching software called VDOT and have a safe and secure communication platform from Teamo.
Are you a big club?
We are a medium-sized club with approximately 150 members.
Of these, roughly 50% are juniors and 50% are seniors with a ratio of 1:1 male to female.
Group sizes are normally limited to twelve so you will get to know everyone in your group
We welcome athletes from all backgrounds and we are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion with a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, victimisation or harassment of any kind.
Do you have a track?
We have a planning application for our own track and field training facility submitted to North Yorkshire Council here.
In the meantime, we make use of the tracks at
- Selby High School (grass)
- University of York (all-weather and floodlight)
- York St John University (all-weather sprints and hurdles)
FAQ - Competition & Coaching
Leagues and Affiliations
SUMMER
- West Yorkshire Track and Field League
- York and District Road Race League
- YVAA Grand Prix Series
- YVAA Championships Series
WINTER
- West Yorkshire Cross Country League
- PECO Cross Country League
AFFILIATIONS
- England Athletics
- Northern Athletics
- Yorkshire Veterans Athletics Association
Coaching
ENDURANCE
- Ian Martin – performance coach
SPRINTS AND HURDLES
- Karen Buck – performance coach
- Les Grant – performance coach
JUMPS
- Les Grant – performance coach
- Beverley Horsfield – athletics coach jumps
THROWS
- Dave Pascoe – athletics coach throws
Further details of all coaches, coaching assistants and run leaders here. Our coaches are all qualified and licensed by England Athletics and enhanced DBS checked.
Safeguarding is our number one priority.
We make use of online software called VDOT for endurance coaching which features training plans and customised training sessions that sync to your Garmin or Apple watch.
Masters Competition
SUMMER
- West Yorkshire Track and Field League
- York and District Road Race League
- YVAA Grand Prix Series
- YVAA Championships Series
WINTER
- West Yorkshire Cross Country League
- PECO Cross Country League
AFFILIATIONS
- England Athletics
- Northern Athletics
- Yorkshire Veterans Athletics Association
Junior Competition
SUMMER
- West Yorkshire Track and Field League (9+)
WINTER
- West Yorkshire Cross Country League (9+)
- PECO Cross Country League (6+)
There are opportunities for children aged 6+ who are keen to compete in the PECO Cross Country League over winter or 9+ who are keen to compete in the West Yorkshire Track and Field League over summer.
However, we have a long waiting list for junior athletes. In order to expand, we are a community that is reliant upon its volunteers. Parents or guardians will need to volunteer in some capacity and/or be willing to compete themselves as a condition of immediate child membership.
Athletics is a significant commitment in terms of training and competition. We encourage children to take part in other sports, clubs, and activities but they must be able to attend our training sessions and represent the club across the region.
FAQ - Benefits
Structured training
We make use of online software called VDOT for endurance coaching which features training plans and customised workouts that sync to your Garmin or Apple watch.
The software, training plans and online coaching are all included in your membership.
Gym membership
Discounted gym membership is available to members through our partnership with Selby Leisure Centre.
Weekly strength and conditioning
In addition to discounted gym membership we run a weekly circuit training class for athlete-specific strength and conditioning.
Inclusive and Safe Community
We welcome athletes from all backgrounds and are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion with a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, victimisation or harassment of any kind.
Safeguarding is our number one priority.
FAQ - Juniors
Waiting list
We currently have a long junior waiting list.
There are opportunities for children aged 6+ who are keen to compete in the PECO Cross Country League over winter or children aged 9+ who are keen to compete in the West Yorkshire Track and Field League over summer.
However, in order to expand, we are a community that is reliant upon its volunteers. Parents or guardians will need to volunteer in some capacity and/or be willing to compete themselves as a condition of priority child membership.
Time commitment
Athletics is a significant commitment in terms of training and competition. We encourage children to take part in other sports, clubs, and activities but they must be able to attend our training sessions and represent the club across the region.
Aims and ethos
Our aim is to nurture complete athletes who can sprint, hurdle, jump and throw proficiently and are capable of running a 2K (primary age) and 5K (secondary age) non-stop. They may not be able to do this right now, but they must be willing to work towards total athletic fitness in a fun and supportive environment that values team spirit and a positive work ethic above individual achievement.
Once total fitness is built, then event specialisation can begin.
Our coaching is built upon four pillars of training: consistency, variety, athleticism and community.
Consistency is showing up.
Variety is a healthy mix of run, jump, and throw at different intensities on varied terrain and topography.
Athleticism means developing agility, balance coordination, speed, strength and power.
Community is teamwork, persistence, and giving back to your club.
We always expect good standards of behaviour, and all our athletes must sign up to England Athletics’ Code of Conduct. Parents must use our Teamo app to confirm attendance at sessions, communicate with coaches, and pay fees on time.
Endurance training
If your child likes running take them to junior parkrun on a Sunday morning in York or Selby and see how they enjoy running a 2K before you think about joining a club.
For older children there are 5K parkruns on a Saturday morning in York and Selby.
We encourage children to run, but our structured endurance training sessions are for aged 12+ only who can already run a 5K parkrun comfortably. In exceptional circumstances, a younger child capable of running a 5K may take part if accompanied by a parent or guardian who can run with them.
For children under 12 we focus on the athletic fundamentals of run, jump and throw with an emphasis on agility, balance, coordination and speed.
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