Frequently Asked Questions

Who can join Lincoln Wellington Athletic Club?

LWAC welcomes athletes aged 8+ of all abilities — from complete beginners to experienced competitors. We have training groups for juniors, seniors, road runners, sprinters, throwers, jumpers, and endurance athletes.

Do I need previous athletics experience?

No. Many of our members join with little or no experience. Our coaching structure helps athletes develop at their own pace.

Can I try a session before joining?

Yes. Prospective members are usually welcome to attend trial sessions before committing to membership.

How do I join the club?

You can complete our online membership form via the website. Once submitted, a coach or membership secretary will contact you with next steps.

Is there a waiting list?

Some junior groups may operate waiting lists during busy periods to maintain safe coach-to-athlete ratios.

What membership options are available?

We offer several membership categories including:

• Junior membership
• Senior membership
• Road running membership
• Family membership
• Social/supporter membership

What does membership include?

Membership includes:

• Access to coaching sessions
• Competition opportunities
• England Athletics affiliation (where applicable)
• Club communications
• Access to club facilities and training groups

Can I join as a second claim athlete?

Yes. Athletes registered with another club may join LWAC as a second claim member.

I’m nervous about joining — is the club beginner friendly?

Definitely. Many members joined feeling exactly the same. Coaches and athletes aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment.

Am I “good enough” to join?

If you’re enthusiastic and willing to give athletics a go, you’re good enough.

Can adults start athletics later in life?

Yes. Many senior members started running or athletics as adults.

What is the 5:15 group?

The 5:15 group introduces younger athletes to athletics through fun, age-appropriate running, jumping, and throwing activities.

Can parents stay during junior sessions?

Yes, particularly for younger athletes. However, parents are generally asked to observe from designated areas.

How are juniors progressed into specialist groups?

Athletes are gradually guided into specialist event groups based on age, development, interest, and coach recommendations.

Does my child need to compete?

Competition is encouraged but not compulsory for all members. We aim to provide opportunities suitable for every level.

What safeguarding policies does the club have?

LWAC follows England Athletics safeguarding guidance and has a dedicated Welfare Officer.

Where does LWAC train?

Most sessions are based at Yarborough Leisure Centre Athletics Track in Lincoln.

When are training sessions?

Most club sessions take place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, with some additional weekend sessions depending on the training group.

What training groups do you offer?

LWAC currently offers groups including:

• 515 junior athletics
• Sprint training
• Middle distance & endurance
• Road running
• Jumps
• Throws
• Hurdles
• Multi-events

What age groups do you cater for?

We support athletes from age 8 through to masters/veteran athletes.

What should I bring to training?

Athletes should bring:

• Suitable trainers/spikes
• Water bottle
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Any required medication (e.g. inhalers)

Do sessions still run in bad weather?

Usually yes, unless conditions are unsafe. Updates are communicated via social media, email, or coaching groups.

Are your coaches qualified?

Yes. Coaches are England Athletics qualified, DBS checked, and supported through ongoing development.

Are your coaches employed by the Club?

No. Every, single person involved in the club is a volunteer, and supports within their specialist area. They give their time, energy, and skills freely, by being passionate about the Club and its members.

Do I have to compete?

No. Some members train for fitness and enjoyment only, while others compete regularly.

What competitions does the club enter?

LWAC athletes compete in:

• Track & field leagues
• Cross country Road races
• County championships
• National competitions

Do I need a club vest to compete?

Yes. Club kit is required for official competitions.

How do I enter competitions?

Your coach or team manager will usually provide guidance on suitable events and entry processes.

What does “affiliated club” mean?

Lincoln Wellington Athletic Club is affiliated with the governing bodies for athletics, allowing our athletes to compete in officially recognised competitions across the UK.

Who is the club affiliated with?

LWAC is affiliated with organisations including:

• England Athletics
• Lincolnshire Athletics Association
• Relevant regional and national competition leagues

What is England Athletics registration?

England Athletics registration provides athletes with an official competition licence and access to licensed events and championships.

Do I need to be England Athletics registered to compete?

For many competitions, yes. Some open meetings and local events may not require registration, but championships and league competitions often do.

Is England Athletics registration included in membership?

Depending on your membership category, England Athletics affiliation may either be included or offered as an additional annual fee.

What are the benefits of being England Athletics registered?

Benefits can include:

• Eligibility for championships
• Reduced race entry fees
• Official rankings and Power of 10 results
• Insurance cover during club activities
• Access to licensed competitions

What is “The Power of 10”?

The Power of 10 is the UK athletics rankings and results platform where athletes can view performances, rankings, and competition history.

Can I compete for another club?

Athletes may compete for other clubs under certain rules, such as second claim membership. Eligibility depends on the competition and governing body regulations.

What is a first claim athlete?

A first claim athlete represents LWAC as their primary athletics club in competitions.

What is a second claim athlete?

A second claim athlete is registered with another primary club but is also permitted to compete for LWAC in specific leagues or competitions.

Are coaches and officials affiliated too?

Yes. Coaches and officials are registered through England Athletics and complete safeguarding and qualification requirements where appropriate.

Does affiliation provide insurance cover?

Affiliation through England Athletics includes insurance cover for recognised club activities and training sessions.

Can non-affiliated athletes train with the club?

Yes. Athletes can usually train with the club before deciding whether to become affiliated members.

Why are affiliations important?

Affiliations ensure the club operates safely, meets national standards, and gives athletes access to recognised competitions and development opportunities.

Where can I buy club kit?

Online store or at the track, email us.

How do I collect my kit?

Competition-wear is held by the club who will be in contact once you purchase, or are available to be contacted if you have any further questions. Training-wear is delivered to your nominated address.

What is the delivery time?

Competition-wear is generally in stock (size-dependent). Training-wear is approximately 4-8 weeks from purchase, as it is made-to-order just for you, and can be personalised.

Why is purchasing club kit important?

Club kit helps athletes represent LWAC proudly and supports the identity and visibility of the club at competitions. It is mandatory at some events to wear club kit.

Is the club run by volunteers?

Yes. LWAC is a volunteer-led club supported by coaches, officials, committee members, parents, and helpers.

Can I volunteer at the club?

Absolutely. We welcome volunteers for coaching, officiating, events, administration, photography, social media, and more.

How can I support Lincoln Wellington Athletic Club?

There are many ways to support LWAC, including:

• Volunteering at training and competitions
• Officiating at events
• Supporting athletes at fixtures
• Purchasing and wearing club kit
• Donating towards equipment and athlete development
• Helping with transport, administration, fundraising, and events

Do parents and supporters need athletics experience to help?

No. Many of our volunteers begin with no prior athletics experience. Any support, big or small, makes a huge difference to the club.

Can I volunteer at competitions?

Yes. Competitions rely heavily on volunteers for tasks such as:

• Team management
• Registration
  Equipment setup
• Recording results
• Athlete support
• Track and field assistance

What is officiating in athletics?

Officials help competitions run safely and fairly by overseeing events such as races, jumps, and throws.

Can the club help me become an athletics official?

Absolutely. LWAC encourages and supports members, parents, and supporters who would like to train as licensed officials through England Athletics.

Why are officials so important?

Many leagues and competitions require clubs to provide qualified officials. Without volunteers, clubs may face penalties or be unable to compete fully.

Can I donate to support the club?

Yes. Donations are always appreciated and directly help improve opportunities for athletes and members.

What do donations help fund?

Donations can support:

• New equipment
• Training aids
• Facility improvements
• Junior development
• Competition costs
• Coach and official education
• Athlete support initiatives
• England Athletics affiliation and league fees

Does the club receive external funding?

As a volunteer-led community club, LWAC combines membership income, fundraising, sponsorship, grants, and donations to continue developing opportunities for athletes.

Can local businesses support the club?

Yes. We welcome sponsorships and partnerships with local businesses that want to support grassroots sport and the local community.

How else can I show my support?

Supporters can also help by:

• Sharing club news and achievements
• Assisting at events
• Helping with photography or social media
• Supporting fundraising activities
• Encouraging participation in athletics within the community

Why is volunteer support so important?

Lincoln Wellington Athletic Club is built on community support. Volunteers, parents, officials, coaches, and supporters all play a vital role in helping the club thrive for current and future athletes.

How do I contact the club?

You can contact us through the website contact form or via our membership email address.

Where can I find club policies and documents?

All safeguarding policies, codes of conduct, constitutions, and membership documents are available on the website.

How do I renew my membership?

Membership renewals are completed online annually.

How do I update my details?

Members can contact the membership secretary to amend personal information.

How does the club communicate with members?

Communication is typically through:

• Email
• Website news posts
• Social media
• WhatsApp groups
• Team apps/groups

Does the club organise social events?

Yes. The club regularly hosts awards evenings, social runs, celebrations, and community events.

What online social platforms are LWAC across?

LWAC have an official social presence on Facebook, Instagram, X, and Strava. Just search “Lincoln Wellington AC” or click the social buttons on the homepage or footer of this site.

What can I expect to see online?

We aim to bring updates from athlete performances, major announcements, future event information, team selections, club records, trophy winners, training updates, updates from our governing bodies, sponsors, reminders, and much more. It is a community hub for all.

How can I be a part of it?

We are always willing to share your life as a Welly supporter, too. We are grateful for being tagged in your updates, and are happy to be sent information and media that we can use and share.