Junior Development Squad
The First Ascent Junior Development Squad is a youth climbing program dedicated to training the next generation of Australia’s top climbers. The program has been developed to improve technique, strength, and mental strategy required for State, National, and International competition climbing in a fun team environment.
This team is for climbers who are dedicated to competition climbing and want a serious training environment. Climbers on this team attend climbing competitions and compete at both the local and national level. This team focuses on comp-specific technique development, rigorous strength training, and competition strategy.
Each training session will be strictly limited to 12 climbers, with 2 experienced coaches running each session. This 6:1 ratio ensures no climber is overlooked. The climbers will receive the same high-quality programming that our one-on-one clients receive, and the sessions will be coached by former Australian Youth Team Captain and First Ascent Climbing Coach, Jarred Jordan, and First Ascent Climbing Coach and athlete, John Bignold. Both these coaches have a wealth of experience between them in competing at International, National and State level, as well as significant experience coaching youth climbers.
Training blocks will follow the school term and sessions will be held at our partner gym, Bloc Climbing in North Parramatta. Sessions are $25 each, and are payable as a $250 10-week term. Sessions are not available to be purchased individually. This cost also includes a student membership valid for the term at Bloc Climbing allowing unlimited access to the facility. Athletes will also receive access to the full range of discounts on climbing equipment and health services currently offered to First Ascent clients.
* Please note: While Bloc Climbing is a bouldering facility, the training sessions are suitable and applicable for lead, speed and bouldering climbers.
Things to consider
- Our team is based on ability level and motivation, not age. Any athlete competing from Youth D through to Juniors may apply.
- We’re a sports team. Regular attendance is expected and our athletes are encouraged to purchase team shirts to wear during training. Local Gym, State or National colours are to be worn at competitions, along with a First Ascent patch.
- Our program is for youth who want to grow as competitive climbers and be part of a tight-knit team. For those who are looking for a less structured social climbing experience, many gyms offer kids club style programs; check with your local gym for kids club schedules and availability.
- Athletes will be provided with training programs to follow at home and/or at their regular gym; it is expected these are followed to ensure continual development.
- Our team trains year-round. Registration can occur at any time throughout the year (assuming classes are not full) and does not reset annually or seasonally. Training sessions are run weekly during the school term.
- Athletes are expected to compete in Regional, State and National competitions. While there is no requirement to compete in every competition, athletes need to be aware of the time, travel, and financial commitments that are required to take part in the Australian climbing circuit.
Still have questions? Email info@firstascentpt.com.au with any enquiries.
Apply Now!
If this sounds like the kind of structured, high performance climbing training you (or your children) are after, apply to join the Junior Development Squad now!
We are currently accepting applications for Term 1, 2017.
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