Membership
Join Waterford Athletic Club and become part of a thriving athletics community in Waterford city.
Join the Club
Waterford AC welcomes athletes of all ages and abilities. Whether you're taking your first steps on the track or returning to competition, there's a place for you here. The club caters for categories from Juvenile through to Masters, with training and competition opportunities in Running, Track & Field, and Cross Country.
Membership Categories
- Juvenile — ages 5 to U16
- Junior — U17 to U20
- Senior — ages 21 to 34
- Master — ages 35 and over
- U23 — ages 20 to 22
Joining an athletic club is the first step toward discovering your potential in a supportive, team-oriented environment. At Waterford Athletic Club, athletes from the age of five through to masters find a welcoming community dedicated to the sport. Training sessions cover running, track and field, and cross country, giving members the chance to explore multiple disciplines or specialise in one. The club's structure ensures that every age group and ability level receives appropriate coaching and encouragement. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced competitor returning to the sport, the club provides the structure, camaraderie, and expert guidance needed to progress and enjoy athletics at your own pace.
Juvenile athletes form the energetic foundation of the club, with programmes designed to introduce young people to athletics in a fun and inclusive way. From sprinting and jumping to throwing events and distance running, children develop fundamental skills while building confidence and friendships. Training sessions are tailored to different age groups, ensuring that the youngest members learn through play while older juveniles prepare for competition. The club emphasises personal improvement over comparison, helping each young athlete set and achieve their own goals. This positive early experience often sparks a lifelong love of sport and physical activity that carries into senior and masters categories.
Senior and masters athletes benefit from a structured yet flexible training environment that accommodates busy lives and varied ambitions. Whether training for a local 5k road race, a national track championship, or a marathon, members receive coaching that respects their individual targets. The club's training calendar includes track sessions, endurance runs, and strength work, all designed to improve performance and reduce injury risk. Many senior members also contribute as mentors and volunteers, strengthening the club community. For those returning to athletics after a break, the welcoming atmosphere and range of training options make it easy to rebuild fitness and rediscover the joy of running and competing.
Beyond the training track, membership brings access to a vibrant social community and a calendar of club events throughout the year. From cross country meets and indoor competitions to summer track series and road races, there are ample opportunities to test your progress and represent the club. Members also enjoy access to club gear and apparel, helping foster a strong sense of identity and belonging. The club's presence in Waterford city means that training venues are accessible and sessions are scheduled at convenient times for families and working adults. Becoming a member means joining a tradition of athletic excellence and community spirit that spans generations.
Membership Fees
Fees for the 2021 season were set as follows. For current fee information, please contact the club directly.
| Category | Fee (2021) |
|---|---|
| Juvenile | €25 |
| Senior / Master | €30 |
How to Renew
Membership renewals are managed through the Athletics Ireland (AAI) online system. Renewal links are typically sent out via email by the club. Keep an eye on your inbox for the annual renewal notice.
New members should reach out to the club secretary to begin the registration process.
Need Help?
For membership queries or assistance with registration, contact the club secretary:
Email: wac-secretary@waterfordac.com
General enquiries: info@waterfordac.com
What Membership Includes
As a Waterford AC member you gain access to:
- Structured coaching sessions across Cross Country and Track & Field
- Training at WIT Arena, Portlaw, Carriganore Greenway, Kiloteran Greenway, and Waterford RSC
- Entry to club-sanctioned competitions and events
- Club gear available through the Gear Shop
- A supportive community of athletes and coaches