3-2-4u NEW The games committee should have responsibility for providing liquids during the race and not leave this duty to each coach.

3-6-1, 3-4-7 Signifying with a bell with one lap remaining in the 800 alerts timers, place judges and FAT operators on notice, builds excitement for spectators and is a positive signal for the competitors.  Updates to current trends in the sport.

3-6-1 The authority to disqualify a runner for a false start should be extended by rule to the starter as well as the referee. 

3-10-7 Clarifies field event judge’s protocol for signifying the performance result when flags are not being utilized.

4-3-1b(5), 8-6-1b(4)     Removes the NOTE limiting the placement of the American flag to one piece of uniform apparel as this is contradictory to the rule.

4-6-5 NEW g, 8-7e  Although uncommon that appropriate health-care professionals are not available to assist an injured/ill competitor, there may be occasions when a competitor is needing assistance to confirm his/her health status or to arrive to a location for health care.  Should another competitor assist, such competitor shall not be disqualified, only the assisted competitor shall be disqualified for not completing the race unassisted. Reorganize rule to indicate why competitor is disqualified.

4-6-5h NEW The rule should include coverage of the actions of competitors and nonparticipating team members as well as assistance/aid from other parties.

5-1-3 In the absence of a curb, the placement of cones ensures the competitors run the prescribed race distance.

5-6-4 The results of running events are based on head-to-head competition and all contestants should have the opportunity to compete in the heat earned by the athlete’s place and/or qualifying times.  Consistent with current trends in the sport.

5-7-3 Reinforces the concept that distance races (800, 1600 or 3200) only use a standing start. Consistent with current trends in the sport.

Rules 6 and 7 Reorganizes Rules 6 and 7 into one rule “Field Events” to avoid duplicity in the rules, remove unnecessary language, be more concise in the presentation of the events rules and create a section on general rules for all field events.

6-2-6 For purposes of risk management, warm-ups in a field event may not take place until the venue is declared open and required supervision is in place.  For further risk minimization for athletes, spectators and officials involved in the event, athletes should be prohibited from picking up an implement and doing turns while other competitors are completing their throws or using the runway during the competition unless they have been called for their attempt.

6-2-10 Clarifies how trials are recorded when a legal implement breaks during competition.  More appropriate to list within rule rather than a NOTE.

6-7-9e The top or sides of the stopboard are outside of the ring and touching outside of the ring is not compliant with leaving from the back half of the circle and is a foul.

7-2-1 The NFHS rules allow several special events to be added to the order of events but no specific event rules are written.  By utilizing USATF Youth event rules, there are standard rules which are age-appropriate.  However, state associations may already have appropriate rules in place and this should be an option stated in the rules.

8-1-3b Clarifies that either directional flags and/or sign posts shall be used in cross country.

9-2-2, 3-17-2 Officials need guidance as to where to place the wind gauge when there are multiple takeoff boards. As the rule is currently written, it implies either having to move the wind gauge between jumps or having a second gauge.  As the better jumpers will most likely use the farther board, it is logical to have the wind gauge at the location farthest from the pit. 

3-4-4 Clarifies the referee has the sole authority for ruling on irregularities not covered within the rules.

6-4-8 Clarifies the three consecutive passed heights must take place before the competitor attempts a jump.

7-5-15 Clarifies when the two minutes of warm-up jumps are permitted when a competitor has passed three consecutive heights with no attempted jump.

8-7-a-f Reorganized actions resulting in a disqualification for clarity.


4-6-1 NOTE 1, 4-6-1 NOTE 2, 5-10-9, 5-10-11, 6-1-5, 6-5-11, 6-5-15, 6-10-f

1. Sportsmanship
2. Heat Acclimatization and Preventing Heat Illness
3. Use of Rubber Discus in Practice and Competition
4. NFHS Track and Field Uniform Regulations

Legal Uniform Images

Uniform Foundation Garment Images (1-23-17)

Sportsmanship/Verification Sample Form

Clerk & Field Event Judges Sheets (updated 1/30/17)

2017 WISCONSIN ADAPTATIONS

Printable Version - Please print and place in your rules book for future reference.

Manufacturer's Contact Information for Pole Vault Poles

Pole Vault Helmet Update

Pole Vault Weight Verification Form

Sample Pole Vault Helmet Parent Release Form

Track & Field Guidelines for Wheelchair Athletes

Wheelchair Athlete Form

Wheelchair Verification Form (Initial Sectional Entry-Due May 1)

Wheelchair Track & Field Physician's Form (kept on file at your school)

WIAA Tournament Information

Visually Impaired:  Running with a Guide

2017 Track & Field Questions and Answers  (5/11/17)