Track & Field Frequently Asked Questions
Do uniforms need numbers on them?
Each contestant must be numbered on the back of his/her jersey with numerals of color that contrast with the color of the jersey and is not less than three-quarters (3/4) inch wide. The number must be at least six inches high. Contestants on the same team may not wear identical numbers. However, athletes from the same school participating in the same event must wear identical uniforms. (3.14.2.1.1 Competition Rules.)
Are multi colored ribbons allowed to be worn on the hair?
Hair-restraining devices no more than two (2) inches made of soft material are legal. Decorative headwear is prohibited. A single color ribbon or similar items used to control the hair are legal as long as it is securely affixed to the hair and is not of an excessive length and size. (3.14.2.1.1 Competition Rules.)
Are lapped competitors allowed to remain in the race?
Contestants in excess of the number of places to be awarded who are lapped will be permitted to finish the race, but must move to the outer lanes of the track (lane 3 or beyond). (3.14.3.3.2 District Meets/ 3.14.3.3.3 Regional Meets.)
Does an athlete have to take a trail before they check out to go to another event?
After an initial check out (timed excuse), the athlete must complete a competitive attempt before being allowed to check out for another field event (i.e. after the first timed excuse, the athlete must take an attempt before they are allowed to check out of the event). (3.14.3.3.2 District Meets/ 3.14.3.3.3 Regional Meets / 3.14.3.3.4 FHSAA Finals.)
What is the advancement procedure from prelims to finals in regional meets when F.A.T is used?
When F.A.T. is used, advancement from prelims to finals: three (3) from each heat and then the next two (2) fastest times. (3.14.3.3.3 Regional Meets.)
Can a team participate in two different events on the same day?
Yes, you may split your team up, however you must count each event towards the total maximum contest allowed (6.17.3 Contest Limitations. 6.17.3.1 Season – 13 meets. 6.17.3.2 School Week – 3 meets.)
Can a competitor wear jewelry?
Penalty for wearing jewelry in track and field or cross country has been modified and applies only to the competitor involved. When a meet official observes a competitor wearing jewelry in track and field, the official shall: (1) for the first violation, require the competitor to remove the jewelry before further competition. (2) The competitor shall be issued a warning that a subsequent violation shall result in a disqualification from the event.
Additional information: Coach’s responsibilities to make certain all competitors are in legal uniforms and are not wearing jewelry.
How far off the line are competitors supposed to be before the starter commands “on your marks” in open races for individual races or opening relay legs of 800 meters or more outdoors?
Starting command shall be to direct competitors to take a position three meters (3) behind the starting line or dashed arc behind the line.
How may the games committee assign competitors to flights for preliminary competition?
(1) Flights contain no less than five competitors. (2) Continuing flights, the first five competitors constitute a flight.
May a vaulting pole have tape on the grip?
Yes, the pole may be of any material, length and diameter, have a binding of layers of adhesive tape of uniform thickness on the grip end and may be protected by layers of tape on the plant end.
What are the editorial changes from the NFHS?