Coles has announced that 72 grassroots Little Athletics Centres will share $250,000 in grants this season from the Coles Little Athletics Community Fund.

The retailer is also backing Little Athletics for a further three years by renewing its partnership with the Australian sporting program.

Coles kicked off its partnership extension with Little Athletics by launching two initiatives to support grassroots clubs and centres:

• The annual Banana A-Peel, a national fundraiser whereby 5¢ from every kilo of Cavendish bananas sold at Coles until 21 October will be donated to Little Athletics Australia to a maximum donation of $150,000
• The revamped Coles Little Athletics Tiny Tots, a modified athletics program for kids as young as three.  

Little Athletics Australia CEO Myles Foreman says Little Athletics is well positioned to maintain its growth with recent successes on and off the track and field.

“Grassroots Little Athletics Centres are the heartbeat of our sport. The sustained upward trend in participation over the past five years is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our 74,000 volunteers across the country, as well as the ongoing efforts of our state and territory member associations who deliver quality programs to thousands of young athletes,” he says.

“Last season’s increase in registrations was further boosted by the inspiring performances at the Paris Games, igniting enthusiasm among young athletes and their families. We are hopeful that this momentum will continue following the recent Athletics and Para-Athletics World Championships, where more than 70 former Little Athletes competed on the world stage – including gold medallists Nicola Olyslagers and James Turner.

“Our partnership extension with Coles for a further three years will also help Little Athletics to continue this momentum with resources and opportunities for children of all ages, including our youngest athletes through the Coles Little Athletics Tiny Tots program.”

Coles Acting Group Corporate and Indigenous Affairs Officer Jace Armstrong says the retailer is extremely proud of its long-standing partnership with Little Athletics.

“Coles’ partnership with Little Athletics is built on mutual values and goals to help kids and local communities thrive and grow,” he says.  

“Since 2017, Coles has donated more than six million bananas and over $2.8 million in sports equipment grants to help kids stay fit and be active. We’re excited to play a role in fostering the next generation of Australian athletes for another three years.”