Run To Inspire
An athletics coaching academy built on grassroots talent, community development and a clear pathway from first stride to podium.
The Academy
What started as a junior squad has evolved into a structured academy of athletes with real promise — under the guidance of Coach Michael Faulmann and the Academy Development Committee. This is how athletes progress and how we operate.
Find young talent in the community and create a sustainable platform for them to flourish.
Through fundraising and partnerships, support athletes with kit, race entries, nutrition and training.
Develop community role models, leaders and talent scouts rooted in their neighbourhoods.
Grow an inclusive, integrated elite squad fed by the junior grassroots programme.
An inclusive three-tier programme so athletes of all abilities have a place to start — and a clear way up.
12-week introduction
Anyone who wishes to join the Academy, shows potential and is committed to a three month introduction programme.
Up to 6 sessions / week
Athletes who have trained with the Academy for 3+ months, meet minimum criteria and have signed the squad commitment. Personal coaching plans, periodic reviews.
By invitation only
Top performing athletes, team ambassadors and mentors. Consistent podium positions and benchmark times across distances.
Athletes wishing to join the Academy squad must meet the following minimum benchmarks:
| Group | Distance | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 15 | 5km time trial | Boys sub 25:00 | Girls sub 28:00 |
| Under 20 | 5km time trial | Boys sub 23:00 | Girls sub 26:00 |
| Senior | 10km time trial | Men sub 40:00 | Ladies sub 45:00 |
Pride and professionalism are non-negotiable. Every academy athlete commits to:
Funded primarily through fundraising and sponsorship, supported by athlete fees so we can reach communities who would otherwise have no access.
Beginners
R300
12-week programme, once-off
Squad
R1 200 / year
or R100 p/m in advance — includes 4–6 coaching sessions per week, ASA licence and Club Membership.
Athletes unable to afford fees may apply for sponsorship.
Elite
Invitation only
For top performing seniors
Every contribution flows back into the athletes through four core areas of support.
Shoes, kit and warm-up gear so every athlete trains in the right conditions.
Sports nutrition, biomechanics, recovery strategies and sports psychology.
First aid, physiotherapy, physical therapy and sports doctors when needed.
Race entries, WPA licences and Club registration fees so no athlete is left behind.
A sustainable programme with a reputation for top quality athletes and community role models — feeding young talent into senior training programmes and giving back to the communities they come from.
Why we exist
The promise we make to our athletes, our coaches and the communities we serve.
Mission Statement
“Our mission is to be the Athletic Academy of choice for all communities in the Southern Suburbs, to afford opportunities for long term Athletic Development and to encourage athletes to obtain an academic qualification.”
Vision Statement
“Our vision is to be able to make grassroots junior programs accessible to athletes from all communities and socio-economic backgrounds. We hope to create a sustainable platform whereby young talent can be identified, developed and supported in a community environment. From this initiative we also want to create community role models and leaders for young athletes to relate and aspire to.”