1. Arrive at least 90 min before your child’s event start time.  

-All athletes will need time to warm up, be briefed by their coaches, and prepare for the race with their teammates. (link to meet schedule will be sent out to parents)

-Athletes should be dressed in their uniforms (or compression/run shorts and tank/t-shirt) and wear a sweatsuit to keep muscles warm before and during warmups.

2. When you arrive at the meet, locate the Cambridge Youth Track and Field team camp/tent, check your runner in, and verify what events he/she is entered in. 

- There will be a clipboard at our camp that lists all runners' entries, order of events, as well as any special instructions. 

- They will need to attach provided meet bibs to their uniforms before entering the track. (we will have safety pins)

3. Each event will have a coach assigned to the event to coordinate warm up, getting to the start etc.  

- This can be very hectic for our coaches with so much going on at one time. Please help by keeping an eye on the event schedule, when your runner’s race is approaching (listen out for event announcements) and ensure they check in with the assigned coach.  

-Look for a parent volunteer for help if needed.

4. Each event will have many heats and are usually run by age groups.

- For most meets, this is coordinated prior to the official start of the meet.  Therefore, it’s critical for the meet to run smoothly by ensuring our runners are at the staging area for their event and stay there until their heat is to start.

5. Parent Involvement: During races/events, you can move from point to point around the track (usually outside of the fence) to cheer the athletes as they pass, or enjoy the meet from the stands.

- You will not be allowed to be on the track during competition unless you are an assigned parent volunteer. 

- Rules also forbid running alongside a competitor to pace or encourage him or her.

- At the finish of the race, the runners will stay in place at the finish until their time is recorded and the official     releases them.

- It’s OK to greet them at the end of their event outside the track fence.

7. Post Meet Expectations: Stay positive and encourage your athlete! Win or lose, Track and Field is all about getting better each meet.

-Make sure runners cool down appropriately after their event.  They are encouraged to stay and cheer on their teammates.  However, we understand busy family schedules and other commitments.  

-Your athlete can touch base with a coach or volunteer before they leave to secure their medal/ribbon if earned in competition.

8. Relax and have fun!

-Track meets are different from any other sporting event.  They are long, laid back and chaotic all at 

once. Bring a book, a comfy chair and a supportive attitude.  

-Concessions are available during meets, but we recommend packing plenty of fluids and healthy snacks.

-Sunscreen and hats are highly recommended

-Canopy tents and stadium umbrellas are allowed and encouraged for warm weather meets.