Carryduff Running Club (CRC) values the time and dedication that members contribute to leading and coaching groups at our sessions. To ensure our leaders are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge, we encourage members to pursue Leadership in Running Fitness (LiRF) and Coaching in Running Fitness (CiRF) qualifications through Athletics NI.
1. What are LiRF and CiRF?
1.1 Leadership in Running Fitness (LiRF):
The LiRF qualification is an entry-level course designed to equip leaders with the skills to organise and lead safe, fun, and inclusive running sessions. It is ideal for those who wish to lead group runs and support other runners in achieving their goals. The LiRF course is a one-day training programme costing approximately £130.
1.2 Coaching in Running Fitness (CiRF):
The CiRF qualification builds on the LiRF and is aimed at coaches working with runners of all abilities. It provides in-depth knowledge of training principles, athlete development, and session planning. This qualification enables coaches to plan and deliver structured training programmes tailored to individual and group needs. The CiRF course is a five-day programme costing approximately £360.
CRC is committed to supporting members who wish to gain these qualifications by reimbursing associated costs under the conditions outlined below.
2. Leadership in Running Fitness (LiRF)
2.1 CRC will reimburse the cost of completing a Leadership in Running Fitness (LiRF) award, including reasonable, necessary travel and accommodation expenses, provided that:
- 2.1.1 The club member has been an active and continuous member of CRC for at least 6 months prior to undertaking the course.
- 2.1.2 The member’s interest in pursuing the LiRF award is endorsed by CRC’s Lead Coach.
- 2.1.3 The member covers the initial cost of the course and related expenses.
2.2 The member may apply for reimbursement 6 months after the successful completion of the course, provided that:
- 2.2.1 Proof of expenditure is supplied.
- 2.2.2 The member agrees to continue leading for an additional 18 months.
2.3 CRC recognises that unforeseen circumstances, such as injury or family commitments, may occasionally prevent a member from fulfilling this commitment.
3. Coaching in Running Fitness (CiRF)
3.1 CRC will reimburse the cost of completing a Coaching in Running Fitness (CiRF) award, including reasonable, necessary travel and accommodation expenses, provided that:
- 3.1.1 The member already holds an up-to-date Leadership in Running Fitness (LiRF) award.
- 3.1.2 The member has been regularly leading sessions for at least 1 year.
- 3.1.3 The member’s interest in pursuing the CiRF award is endorsed by CRC’s Lead Coach.
- 3.1.4 The member covers the initial cost of the course and related expenses.
3.2 The member may apply for reimbursement 6 months after the successful completion of the course, provided that:
- 3.2.1 Proof of expenditure is supplied.
- 3.2.2 The member agrees to continue coaching regularly for an additional 18 months.
3.3 CRC acknowledges that personal circumstances, such as injury or family commitments, may occasionally prevent members from fulfilling this commitment.
4. Maintaining Qualifications
4.1 CRC will reimburse any necessary costs associated with maintaining a member’s LiRF or CiRF qualifications, provided that:
- 4.1.1 The member has been regularly leading and/or coaching sessions during the previous 3 years.
- 4.1.2 The member agrees to continue leading and/or coaching for at least 2 years following the reimbursement.
4.2 CRC recognises that injury, family matters, or other commitments may occasionally affect a member’s ability to meet this requirement.
5. Financial Assistance
5.1 CRC understands that some members may not be able to cover the upfront costs of a LiRF or CiRF qualification.
5.2 Any member in this position is encouraged to discuss their circumstances with the Lead Coach, who will explore alternative arrangements to support their training.
This policy reflects CRC’s commitment to supporting and developing our leaders and coaches. By ensuring access to high-quality training and qualifications, CRC aims to maintain a vibrant and inclusive running community where all members can thrive.