Last year our Junior Section proudly surpassed the 100-member milestone, a clear sign that youth athletics within the club is not only healthy but flourishing. What began as a small group of enthusiastic young runners has grown into a vibrant community of athletes, all discovering their own path within the sport.

At the heart of our junior programme is a multi-event philosophy. Rather than early specialisation, we encourage young athletes to experience the full spectrum of athletics. In recent years this approach has produced a wide range of impressive performances across regional and national competitions, with our athletes competing confidently in events across the track, field, cross country and hills.

We firmly believe that there is an event for everyone. Whether it is the rhythm of running, the thrill of jumping or the power of throwing, every discipline has a place within our programme. These skills are nurtured from our Fundamentals group right through to the Senior ranks, allowing young athletes to grow as well-rounded multi-eventers before eventually finding the disciplines that inspire them most.

Behind every young athlete stands a dedicated team. As a club, we invest significantly in coach education and continuous professional development, ensuring we can support the needs, ambitions, and dreams of every athlete who wear yellow and red.

Our coaching team currently includes three Level 2 Athletics Coaches, with specialist expertise in endurance and throwing, supported by a committed group of Coaching Assistants and Mountain Running Leaders. Together they provide structured, informed training sessions that not only develop performance but also nurture confidence, resilience, and a lifelong enjoyment of sport.

 

With more than 100 junior members, our training sessions are full of energy and ambition. On Monday evenings, athletes aged 12 and over often head for the hills, guided by experienced coaches who themselves have achieved international call-ups and notable successes in mountain running. These sessions combine challenge, adventure, and camaraderie in the stunning landscape that surrounds us.

On Saturdays, our Post-Primary group focuses on developing speed and technique through sessions in Tollymore, while also accessing the facilities at the Mary Peters Track when needed. Training across different environments helps athletes build strength, speed and versatility as they progress through the sport.

Competition also plays an important role in the development of our juniors. Each year, many of our athletes take part in the McGrady Financial Services Junior XC Series, a welcoming and inclusive local race series that provides a valuable introduction to competition. For many young runners, it is their first taste of the excitement and challenge of race day.

From this series, a deep love of cross country running has taken root within the club. Many of our athletes go on to represent both Newcastle AC and their schools at regional and national level, proudly carrying forward the club’s growing reputation.

In 2025, the club celebrated a truly historic moment when Harry McVeigh secured Newcastle AC’s first National Cross Country Gold Medal. It was a landmark achievement and a proud day for the entire club, inspiring the next generation of young athletes who are already following in his footsteps.

The future of Newcastle AC is already blooming and none of this would be possible without the dedication of our coaches and volunteers. Week after week they give their time, energy and passion—coaching sessions, organising events, supporting competitions and quietly doing the countless tasks that keep the club moving forward.

Their commitment creates an environment where young athletes can grow, dream, compete and belong—and ensures that the story of Newcastle AC will continue to unfold for many years to come.

 

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McGrady Financial Services Junior XC Series 

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