Tapp Track Academy focused on moulding the future
Published:Thursday | June 15, 2023 | 1:35 AMDaniel Wheeler/Staff Reporter
TRACK AND field coach Matthue Tapper’s commitment to nurturing the track and field stars of tomorrow was the catalyst behind the formation of Tapp Track Academy, a home where he not only hopes the future of the sport will come from but also for a more equal opportunity for those who want to pursue it.
Tapper was speaking during this week’s media day at Maxfield Park, where young athletes were put through the paces, the majority of whom are competing at today’s JISA/Little Caesars Pizza National Prep Schools Track & Field Championship.
Tapper said he wanted to create an environment that not only provides quality training, but an enjoyable experience that allows young athletes to stay in the sport long term.
“It is an opportunity for children to get training that you don’t get everywhere. The grassroots is becoming more important because you have 15-year-olds and 16-year-olds who are running adult times. I think the youth are a little bit more important than they were before. So Tapp Track Academy is here because of that,” Tapper said.
“At this age, it is more important that it is fun, so that the children don’t get bored of the sport too soon. So we have a high-level programme but we ensure that it is fun so that we can keep them when they are 17, 18 and ready to make that step.”
FULFILMENT
Tapper, who has coached at all levels including at Immaculate Conception High last season, said that coaching at the grassroots level brings him fulfilment as well as ensures that everyone has a chance to learn.
“Coaching children is a passion of mine. I have coached at all levels. There is now more of a fulfilling feeling. I also realised that there are a lot of small schools that didn’t necessarily need programmes. So I wanted to make it available to anybody, not just somebody who is attending a traditional school,” Tapper said.
The academy has good support, not only from the sports minister but agriculture company AustroJam.
AustroJam managing director Martin Zsifkovics said that it was important that the next generation get the required support for them to blossom.
“We need to give those children an opportunity to also feel special. In Jamaica, we have so much potential in our young children and can transform society through sports. So I hope more people come on board, not only to be involved in a project like this but just to be more involved in sport,” said Zsifkovics.
Two-time national 100m champion Tyquendo Tracy said young athletes getting instruction at this stage is critical so they can keep their hunger for the sport.
“Teaching children is important because this is where they are the sponge, to soak up all the information for what they need at a tender age. While not overdoing them, they will excel much better at the high school level and onward into the professional level,” Tracey said.