First Meet Complete!

The first home meet of the season is always a nervous time for me. This year was no different, especially with the increased number of participants we have. But, thanks to all the athletes who showed excellent sportsmanship, all the parents from our team and the visiting team who were supportive and encouraging, and all the volunteers who helped and were willing to "learn on the job," we had a really great day. We completed 65 track races, and had approximately 100 kids participate in 2 field events--all in just over 5 hours. That is over 12 events/ hour. WAY TO GO!!!

I want the next meet to be even better. I have mulled over and discussed with parents and coaches ways we can improve. We considered dropping the relay. It takes a long time to plan for and, compared to the other events, a long time to execute. However, it is the one "team" event in the meet, and a chance for runners of all levels to help each other achieve in ways they may not have the opportunity to otherwise. So, for the next meet, we won't be dropping the relay. But, in order to expedite the flow of things, we need more volunteers, particularly at the finish line timing. If you timed last time, WONDERFUL, please help out again! If you didn't help time but think you could, please send me an email. If we have 2 groups of 6 timers that take turns timing the events, we can move those who just ran off to the side to work out placement, times, and awards, while the next race gets set up and started. I believe this will SIGNIFICANTLY improve the flow of the meet.

Inherent with this sport are officiating mistakes. If you don't experience it at some point, you are unusual. Those officiating at the finish line are volunteers doing the best they can, but they ARE human. Use your best judgement when you see a mistake (regarding whether or not to address it), and please remember the goal of this program is to foster positive feelings in our children about themselves and toward the sport of track and field. I was very impressed with the sportsmanship displayed at the last meet, and I know it will continue.

Below are some pictures my dear husband and others took at the meet. Enjoy!!