sport

Adelaide Students Launch High School Athletics Careers Via SAAS Programs

Key details on coordination, events and pathways for joining school track and field programs.

By Adelaide Sport Desk · Published 19 July 2026

How we reported this

This article was written by AI from the linked sources and was not reviewed by a journalist before publishing. The Daily Adelaide is part of The Daily Network and follows our reasonable editorial care.

The Sports Association for Adelaide Schools coordinates high school athletics across the city, with the annual Achilles Cup track and field competition scheduled each year on the last Thursday of September.

Starting Through School Programs

Adelaide high schools maintain athletics traditions by competing in events organised under SAAS. Schools such as Loxton High and Adelaide High School regularly field squads for SASSSA Track and Field Championships as well as Riverland Interschool events. Students interested in participation typically begin by engaging with their school's co-curricular sport offerings, which align with the SAAS framework for age-group competition from Under 13 to Open divisions.

Events and Age Groups to Know

SAAS athletics contests cover a defined set of disciplines. Running events range from 100m to 3000m. Jumping events include High Jump, Long Jump and Triple Jump. Throwing events feature Javelin, Discus and Shot Put. These take place across the listed age groups, allowing students to select disciplines that match their strengths once they join a school squad.

Championship Pathway and Dates

The 2025 SA State All Schools Athletics Championships are set for October 25-26 at the SA Athletics Stadium in Adelaide. This event serves as the premier competition for students turning 12 or older in 2025. Top performers advance to the 2025 Australian All Schools Athletic Championships in Melbourne from December 4-7, providing a route to represent South Australia at national level. Students can prepare by training through their school's SAAS-aligned program ahead of these dated fixtures.

Participation begins at the school level, where squads prepare for the Achilles Cup and subsequent state selection. The structure offers a clear sequence from local school events through to the October state championships and potential national qualification. Families and students seeking involvement should consult their school's sport coordinator to confirm eligibility and training options tied to the SAAS calendar.