How to Join a Track & Field Team

To join a track and field team, contact the school coach or a local club, complete any registration and medical forms, and attend the first practices or tryouts. Most school teams welcome beginners, and coaches will help you find events that suit you.

Where to find a team

OptionDetails
School teamAsk the coach or athletic office; many have no cuts
Club teamLocal athletics clubs for youth and adults
CollegeContact coaches or walk-on programs
Masters athleticsCompetitions for older adults
Summer programsShort seasons for youth athletes

Getting ready

  • Complete a sports physical if required.
  • Build a running base before the season.
  • Try different events in the first weeks.
  • Get proper running shoes.
  • Learn the team’s schedule and communication channel.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need experience to join track?

No. Many athletes start in high school or later.

How do I pick my events?

Try sprints, distance, jumps and throws early; your coach can help you find strengths.

Are there cuts on track teams?

Some large programs have them, but many school teams accept everyone.

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Sam Ayed
Sam Ayed

Sam Ayed is a soccer player, coach and lifelong sports enthusiast. As the editor of Sportmentary, he writes and reviews the site's guides, checks rules content against the official rulebooks of each sport's governing body, and keeps pages updated when those rules change.

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