1. 2016 SCISA Track State Rules Presentation
Coaches shall:
1. Review this rules presentation.
2. Complete and return the rules
questionnaire by February 16th.

2. Requirements for SCISA Coaches
The HEAD COACH must be CPR certified.
All coaches must have successfully completed an on-line Concussion Course. Your AD will keep documentation verifying that all coaches are in compliance. (NFHS website or CDC)
3. NFHS Online Course: Sportsmanship - Required of all coaches
4. NFHS Online Course: Creating a Safe and Respectful Environment Required of all coaches

3. Requirements for SCISA Coaches
If your school offers pole vault, then your coach must complete the NFHS course on teaching pole vault.

4. What you permit, you promote!
Sportsmanship
Pre-Season Parents Meeting
Code of Conduct review with players / coaches
Sportsmanship message before meet
Schools are required to have an on-site lightning detection device or service.
What you permit, you promote!

5. Rules Changes Major Editorial Changes Points of Emphasis
2016 Track and Field
Rules Changes
Major Editorial Changes
Points of Emphasis

6. Inspection of Starting Blocks Rules 3-6-4, 3-19-3
Responsibility of inspecting starting blocks to be used in running events has been transferred to the head starter
The head starter may appoint a designee to assume this task
The inspector of implements no longer inspects the starting blocks
Placing the responsibility of inspecting all starting blocks is more appropriate with the starter, who has this expertise, rather than with the implement inspector who has expertise with throwing implements.
The head starter may have several other tasks, especially in larger meets and may appoint a designee to assume the task of inspecting all starting blocks to be use in the running events.
Starters need to add this to their list of responsibilities and be certain this task is not overlooked during this first year of implementation.

7. Use of Flags for Field Event Judges Rule 3-10-7
Head event judge may be equipped with white and red flags
When trial is completed the event judge immediately signals the result of the effort
White flag is raised for “fair”
Red flag is raised for “foul”
In the absence of flags, “fair” or “foul” shall be called
The use of flags will assist with efficient administration of the field events.
Communication between officials, coaches and fans is enhanced by the visual signal, similar to the use of flags by umpires.
The use of flags allows for more efficient administration of the event now that event judge no longer calls “mark.”

8. Definitions for Throwing Events Rules 6-1-1 thru 5
Trial/attempt is all of a competitor’s actions that occur from when time limit begins until official determines a fair or foul trial
Flight is a round of trials for a group or competitors.
Round is the completion of all trials of one rotation of the order of competitors
Pass is used to forgo a trial
Qualify is earning the right to participate in finals
Foul throw is counted as a trial but is not measured due to violation of a rule(s)
These changes expand the definitions for throwing events for greater clarity in application of the throwing rules and updates to accepted current sport terminology.
A trial/attempt is all of the competitor’s actions that occur from when the time limit begins until the official has determined, through the use of the flag or verbal indication, a fair or foul trial.
A flight is a round of trials for a group of competitors in a throwing event.
A round is the completion of all trials of one rotation of the order of competitors for throwing events.
A pass is used to forgo a trial.
To qualify is to earn the right to participate in the finals.
A foul throw is one that is counted as a trial but that is not measured as a result of a violation of the rules.

9. Throwing Events Trial/Attempt Rule 6-1-1 Note
A trial/attempt is all of the competitor’s actions that occur from when the time limit begins until the official has determined, through the use of the flag or verbal indication, a fair or foul trial
Note: Actions by a competitor cannot be a foul after the official has ruled the trial fair. This does not negate the immediate correction of a mistaken action by the official.
The official cannot go back and call a foul if ruled fair except if there is an immediate correction of the mistaken action by the official.
For example, if the official would raise the white flag in error and immediately switch and raise the correct red flag for a foul.

10. Excused to Participate in Other Event Rules 6-2-5, 7-2-2
Order of competition in preliminary or final rounds may be changed by the head event judge
A change in order is done to accommodate those competitors in other events
Specific rules for throwing and jumping events apply when a competitor is excused and each rule should be reviewed for proper application
Duplicate language contained elsewhere in existing rules has been eliminated and language added regarding when the order of competition may be changed to accommodate competitors in other events.
The rules language is consistent in all field event rules.

11. Foul for Not Completing Trial Rule 6-2-9
Competitor is charged with a foul for not initiating the purposeful action of completing the requirements of the athletic challenge (throw) within the prescribed time limit once name has been called for trial
New language is included to identify what is included in a trial, “purposeful action of completing the requirements of the athletic challenge”
A competitor shall be charged with a foul if he/she does not initiate the purposeful action of completing the requirements of the athletic challenge (throw) of the event within one minute (or other prescribed time limit) after the competitor’s name has been called for a trial.

12. Shot Put-Indoor Implement Specifications Rule 6-5-2
Added specification of a maximum diameter for an indoor shot
The new diameters account for the synthetic cover on the indoor shot
Maximum diameter for boys indoor shot mm
Maximum diameter for girls indoor shot is 130 mm
To account for the thickness of the synthetic covering of an indoor shot, which is not present on the outdoor implement, a maximum diameter is needed in the specifications for the implement.
The boys indoor shot has a maximum diameter of mm.
The girls indoor shot has a maximum diameter of 130 mm.

13. Javelin Implement Specifications Rule 6-6-1
Reference to a javelin constructed of solid wood removed
Javelin shall be constructed of metal or other suitable material
More modern materials are now permitted such as carbon fiber for construction of the javelin
Inserting the terminology of “other suitable material” updates the current javelin specifications by eliminating reference to wood, which is no longer a commonly used material.
The change will permit use of newer materials, such as carbon fiber, in the construction of the javelin.
Wood is still permitted but due to no longer being a common material used for javelin construction it is removed from the rules language.

14. Definitions for Jumping Events Rules 7-1-1, Note thru 7
Trial/attempt is all of a competitor’s actions that occur from when time limit begins until official determines a fair or foul trial
Note: Actions by a competitor cannot be a foul after the official has ruled the trial fair. This does not negate the immediate correction of a mistaken action by the official.
Flight is a round of trials for a group or competitors
Round is the completion of all trials of one rotation of the order of competitors
Horizontal events include the long and triple jumps
Vertical events include the high jump and triple jumps
Expands the definitions for jumping events for greater clarity in application of the jumping rules and updates to accepted current sport terminology.
A trial/attempt is all of the competitor’s actions that occur from when the time limit begins until the official has determined, through the use of the flag or verbal indication, a fair or foul trial. As with throwing events, the actions by a competitor cannot be determined to be a foul after the event judge has ruled the trial fair unless there is immediate correction of a mistaken action by the event judge.
A flight is a round of trials for a group of competitors in a jumping event.
A round is the completion of all trials of one rotation of the order of competitors for jumping events.
Horizontal events include the long and triple jumps.
The vertical events include the high jump and the pole vault.

15. Definitions for Jumping Events Rules 7-1-1, Note thru 7
Pass is used to forgo a trial
Qualify is earning the right to participate in finals
Foul jump is counted as a trial but is not measured due to violation of a rule(s)
In all field events, a pass is used to forgo a trial.
To qualify is to earn the right to participate in the finals.
A foul jump is one that is counted as a trial but that is not measured as a result of a violation of the rules.

16. Foul for Not Completing a Trial Rule 7-2-1
Competitor is charged with a foul for not initiating the purposeful action of completing the requirements of the athletic challenge (jump) of the event within the prescribed time limit once name has been called for trial
The same new language as in throwing events is included in the jumping events to identify what is included in a trial, “purposeful action of completing the requirements of the athletic challenge”
A competitor shall be charged with a foul if he/she does not initiate the purposeful action of completing the requirements of the athletic challenge (jump) of the event within one minute (or other prescribed time limit) after the competitor’s name has been called for a trial.

17. Long & Triple Jump Takeoff Board Specifications Rule 7-6-3
Recommended width of the takeoff board is 8 inches
However, the takeoff board may have a width of up to 24 inches
Length remains 42 to 48 inches
Updates the recommended width of the takeoff board to accepted current sport equipment specifications of 8 inches while not resulting in existing boards of up to 24 inches becoming non-compliant.

18. Major Editorial Changes
2016 Track and Field
Major Editorial Changes

19. Jumping Events Rules 7-2-1 thru 18EC
Editorial
Change
Reorganizes rule for greater efficiency when applying the rules for jumps
All general rules are together
All horizontal jumps rules together
All vertical jumps rules together
The reorganization makes Rule 7-2 more compact, eliminates duplicate and unnecessary language and provides for greater clarity and logical organization.
A thorough review of Rule 7, due to the reorganization, will be helpful in locating rule requirements in their new locations.

20. Cross Country Penalties for Rules 9-6-1, 2
Wearing an illegal uniform has a penalty separate from the not wearing or altering the assigned number or transponder (Penalty 1)
Penalties for not wearing or altering the assigned number or transponder results in disqualification
Should there be an irregularity creating this problem, such incident shall be addressed by the referee (Penalty 2)
There was confusion as to the proper penalty to invoke if the violation was strictly uniform related or if the violation involved not wearing the assigned number, transponder or altering the transponder.
By separating the penalties the proper penalty and application is now clear.

21. Uniform Rules 4-3-1b(5) & 9-6-1b(4)EC
Editorial
Change
An American flag, not to exceed 2 by 3 inches may be worn on each item of uniform apparel
A commemorative or memorial patch, not to exceed 4 square inches may be worn on the uniform top or bottom by state association action
Clarifies that the wearing of the American flag does not require state association approval.
The wearing of a commemorative or memorial patch does require state association. This can be done on an individual basis or by a state association policy that permits the wearing of commemorative or a memorial patch as approved by the local school administration.

22. 2016 Track and Field
Points of Emphasis

23. Role of Officials Inspecting Duties A General Review
Officials should have a pre-meet session to review responsibilities during the meet, inspections of venue, implement inspection and how officials shall work together
A well run meet absent unnecessary concerns for risk minimization depend upon officials fulfilling these and other responsibilities
The review of responsibilities includes not only those covered in the rules but the “common sense approach to making sure your event is ready to go for competition.

24. Use of Flags by Officials
With the rules to no longer call “mark” the field events will be run more efficiently and with improved communication by the use of flags
Head event judge shall have both a white and red flag
When trial is completed, if “fair” a white flag is raised and if “foul” a red flag is raised
The flag is not raised until the judge is certain of the outcome of the actions of the competitor for the throw or jump and all requirements at the ring, arc or jumping area and sector
If legal, the event judge checks with the sector judge to see if the attempt is legal or illegal.
The flag is then raised signaling the result of the attempt.

25. Number of Competitors in Sections of Distance Races
It is important to consider the size of the field, quality of performances of competitors involved and number of lanes
A section should not be so large as to create an environment that increases the risk for injury or unfair competition
This year’s online Pre-Meet Notes features an article on this topic that will guide meet directors in determining number of competitors in distance race sections

26. Forces Disassociated with Competitor's Actions in High Jump & Pole Vault
When a competitor has legally and is clearly over the crossbar and a force not associated with the competitor causes the crossbar to be displaced, it is not considered a foul
Examples include but are not limited to wind or in the pole vault the pole rebounding from the plant box padding into the crossbar
It is not considered a disassociated force if the vaulter releases the pole and it falls into the crossbar

27. Multiple Logos on Uniform Bottoms are Non-Compliant
Coaches must take the time to be certain uniforms are compliant
The display of multiple manufacturers logos on the same uniform item is a violation
When an item is selected as a uniform bottom, it is not in compliance if the waistband has more than on logo or reference or there is also a logo elsewhere
Many of these items are not really uniforms but are base layer items or intended to be a training item or undergarment so the coach must be aware of what he/she is asking the athletes to wear and make sure they are in legal uniforms

28. NFHS Track and Field Pre-Meet Notes
NFHS Track and Field Pre-Meet Notes are available online at
NFHS Track and Field Pre-Meet Notes are made possible through the cooperative efforts of the NFHS Track and Field Rules Committee and USA Track and Field Officials Training Subcommittee
Pre-Meet Notes are available online via NFHS and USATF.
This pre-season publication is prepared for officials and coaches.
It is of great value to volunteers also working the meets.
The Pre-Meet Notes cover new rules, spotlight various events and their administration and provide information on how to become an official with your state association and USATF.
Make sure you download your copy of this year’s publication!

29. Coaching Pole Vault Course Objectives Units
■ Starting a beginner – teaching proper standing grip height, width of hands on pole, and position of hands on pole
■ How to instruct beginning level pole-vaulters through skill development drills and build confidence
■ Maintaining a safe practice and competition environment – proper pad placement and securing of vault mat pads
This course, developed by USA Track and Field and the NCAA, has been designed to help both coaches and athletes.
Coaches will learn to develop and teach the introductory skills of pole vaulting to your athletes.
After completing this course, each participant will have a better understanding of the fundamentals of pole vaulting, as well as the best practices and techniques that will help educate and promote safety in the sport.
Course participants have unlimited access to the course & resources for one year from date of course delivery.
This course can be used as an elective to fulfill CIC certification requirements.
The course is approved by NFHS for 3 course clock hours.
Units
■ Starting a Beginner
■ Basic Laws of Physics
■ Drills and Coaching Techniques
■ Problem Solving
■ Equipment and Facility
■ Interactive Exercise
More Information at nfhslearn.com!

30. Coaching Track and Field Course Objectives Units
Course Objectives
Units
■ Types of races – sprint and endurance
■ Running form – proper posture, arm movement, and leg movement
■ Start and Drive phase – block and standing start
■ Types of jumps – horizontal and vertical
■ Jump elements – approach, take off, flight and landing
■ Throwing – basic skills for each event type
■ How to teach skills for correct form
■ Teaching progressions to combine skills into full movement
■ Running
■ Jumping
■ Throwing
Coaching Track and Field, developed by USA Track and Field and the NFHS is hosted by decorated Olympic athletes Dan O'Brien and Hyleas Fountain. 
The course presents the fundamentals of running, jumping and throwing, as well as the importance of sound mechanics and how to teach these basic skills.
After taking this course, you will be able to identify key points or stages of a skill, and use visual demonstrations with verbal cues to help participants execute a particular technique or skill. 
Members of USA Track and Field will receive a $15 discount as an added benefit.
Course participants have unlimited access to course & resources for one year from date of purchase.
This course can be used as an elective to fulfill AIC or CIC certification requirements.
Approved by NFHS for 5 course clock hours.
More Information at nfhslearn.com!

31. NFHS E-books
Electronic versions of NFHS Rules and Case Books are now available for purchase as e-books
Apple users can visit iTunes for available books
Apple, Android and Kindle users can buy e-books from Amazon.com and view them through the Kindle app
$5.99
Visit for more information

32. Thank You for your support of
High School Athletics!