Kansas High School Track and Field Meet Updates

News Summary

The Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) announces significant changes to the high school track and field meet, including a new 9-lane track and increased qualifying spots from 16 to 18. These adjustments, inspired by the remodeling of University Stadium at Wichita State University, aim to provide more opportunities for young athletes. Coaches are currently discussing proposals regarding the new qualification process, including concerns over performance variability in different regional conditions and potential scheduling alterations. Stay tuned for the final decisions later this summer.

Exciting Changes to Kansas High School Track and Field Meet!

Attention all track and field enthusiasts in Wichita! Big things are happening as the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) prepares for some thrilling changes to the state high school track and field meet this season. These transformations are being inspired by the remodeling of University Stadium at Wichita State University, set to become a premier collegiate track and field facility.

What’s New?

First off, the stadium is getting a shiny new 9-lane track! That’s right, folks—up from the original 8 lanes. Why is this a big deal? Well, adding one lane can potentially create an extra qualifying spot in each preliminary race at the state track meet, meaning more opportunities for young athletes to showcase their talents.

The KSHSAA is excited about the new possibilities with the expansion of qualifying spots. With this upgrade, the number of state qualifiers will increase from 16 to 18 in all 18 events for the next state meet. While this sounds amazing, the process for determining how those extra qualifiers will be selected is stirring up some lively discussions among coaches throughout Kansas.

Coaching Conversations and Proposals

Coaches have been talking to the KSHSAA’s track and field administrator about these anticipated changes, but nothing is set in stone just yet. Right now, three proposals are being reviewed by high school coaches across Kansas, and these could potentially be implemented by the KSHSAA executive board.

Mark your calendars! A decision may be made during the meeting on June 11, but some expect that the final vote could be delayed until the summer or early fall. It’s worth noting that KSHSAA has already revamped the qualification process this season. Previously, the top 4 in events at four regionals earned automatic qualifiers, but that number has now been reduced to top-3 spots, with four extra qualifiers based on the best performances across all regionals.

Concerns and Suggestions