At AIM Track, athletes do not simply join a group and “find their way”.
Every athlete is assessed, placed, and developed through a structured performance pathway system designed to support long-term success in athletics.
This system ensures that each athlete trains in the right environment, at the right level, and at the right time.
Our programme is built around three clearly defined pathways:
- AIM Performance Foundation (APF)
- AIM Performance Development (APD)
- AIM High Performance (AHP)
Together, these pathways create a complete development system from early secondary school through to elite and international progression.
Assessment and Selection: The Starting Point
Before an athlete joins AIM, we complete an initial assessment.
This helps us understand:
- Current performance level
- Technical ability
- Training background
- Physical maturity
- Attitude and commitment
- Long-term potential
- Credible national rankings
Only athletes who meet AIM’s standards are placed into a pathway. This protects both the athlete and the training environment.
Pathways: Defined and Performance-Focused
AIM Performance Foundation (APF) | Ages 12–14
APF supports young athletes transitioning into structured performance training.
- Technique development
- Movement efficiency
- Injury resilience
- Positive training habits
Athletes are prepared for inter-school, zonal, and early regional competition.
AIM Performance Development (APD) | Ages 14–18
APD is for athletes ready for higher training demands and national-level progression.
The focus is on:
- Increased training load and accountability
- Event-specific development
- Tactical racing
- Championship preparation
Athletes prepare for NZ Secondary Schools, NZ Juniors, and national competitions.
AIM High Performance (AHP) | Ages 18+
AHP supports athletes operating at, or approaching, elite standards.
The focus is on:
- High-performance planning and periodisation
- Championship peaking
- Tactical racing
- Sustainable elite progression
This pathway includes structured support for international and US college opportunities.
Ongoing Review, Progression, and Standards
Athletes are reviewed regularly and progress based on evidence, not preference..
We monitor:
- Training consistency
- Performance progression
- Physical health
- Mental approach
- Competition outcomes
If needed, athletes may move pathways as they develop. This is part of long-term planning.
Why This System Works
Our structured pathway system:
✔ Maintains high standards
✔ Protects athlete wellbeing
✔ Creates clear expectations
✔ Supports long-term success
✔ Builds team culture
It allows every athlete to train in the right environment for their stage.
What We Expect From AIM Athletes
All AIM athletes commit to:
- Regular attendance
- Respect for coaches and teammates
- Personal responsibility
- Academic balance
- Professional behaviour
This is a high-performance environment. Standards matter.
For Parents and New Athletes
If you are considering AIM, understand that:
- Entry is selective
- Training is structured
- Expectations are high
- Support is strong
- Goals are relentless
Our aim is not to train the most athletes. Our aim is to develop the best prepared athletes.
Final Thoughts
At AIM Track, success is built on careful assessment, clear pathways, and disciplined training. By placing athletes in the right pathway from the start, we create an environment where talent can grow safely and sustainably.
If you are interested in joining AIM, visit our Performance Pathways page to learn more, or contact us here to begin the assessment process and take the next step in your development.