Track & Field Comments on the Rules - 2025

By NFHS on September 06, 2024 track & field/cross country Print

3-6-3, 5-7-6 — The current 100-meter recall distance in track events poses several potential issues. Athletes often reach racing speed well before the 100-meter mark, and the number of starters and other officials at a regular-season meet can make it challenging for starters to ensure a fair start and recall races accurately. Typically, by 100-meters the race has been turned over to the umpires on the curve. Finally, the presence of field events in the D-zone can obstruct the 100-meter stretch around the entire curve. Reducing the recall distance to 50 meters would address these problems, providing starters with a more manageable range to oversee and ensuring a fairer start for all athletes.

5-10-1, 5-10-11, 5-11 — The reorganization of Sections 10 and 11 regarding relay races and relay infractions clarifies the distinction between the rules for conducting relays and identifying infractions. By moving all relay infractions to Section 11 (Relay Infractions), officials can more easily reference and enforce the rules, improving the overall management of relay events.

5-13-3 — The rule change clarifies that competitors must not deliberately run on or inside the track curb (or painted line) to gain a meaningful advantage, such as improving their position or shortening the course. This added language aligns with national interpretations and provides clear guidance to meet referees on whether an athlete who leaves the track on a straightaway should be disqualified.

6-2-2f (NEW) — This rules change introduces guidelines on notifying athletes when they have 15 seconds remaining in their field event attempts. It aligns officiating practices with other rule codes and provides the games committee and state associations with various options for issuing these warnings, such as using flags, a signal clock, or verbal signals.

6-2-2 CHART — New language has been added to the chart under general rules for field events to clarify the time limits for all competitors throughout the competition. Notes indicate when time limits change for all competitors and when a competitor enters the competition for the first time.

6-3-2 NOTES 1 — This rule change provides clear and concise language in the rule book for officials and event judges regarding the starting height for a jump-off in vertical jumps. When athletes exit the event at different heights due to passes, the jump-off will begin at the next height in the progression after the tying height.

6-8-2 — This rule change clarifies the definitions of "active flights" (five-alive) and "continuing flights" (straight through) for vertical jump competitions. When the number of entries is necessary, the games committee or state association may assign competitors to active flights of no less than five athletes or conduct the event in continuing flights.

6-9-22 — Setting a standard distance for the placement of the high jump crossbar and standards is crucial for maintaining fairness, safety, and consistency in the sport. This standardization ensures that all athletes compete under the same conditions, providing a level and safe playing field across different competitions and venues.