GENERAL MEET INFORMATION

There are 4 AAU qualifying meets that lead to the AAU Junior Olympics competition. Each meet includes a larger geographical area of athletes (Area, State, Missouri Valley Association, Region), and a higher level of competition. Meets are progressive. You must qualify to progress to the next meet. This usually means finishing in the top 4 in your age and event at each meet. 

Coach Rollins provides the entry form for the first meet. After that, you will pick up the entry form for the next meet at the qualifying meet. Plan to arrive about 1 to 2 hours prior to your first event. When you arrive, locate the registration desk and pick up your bib number. The bib number should be pinned to the front of your uniform top. Then, find a shady spot, set up a lawn chair, put down your blankets, or settle in on the bleachers with your umbrella to watch the events leading up to yours. Estimated times for events are published prior to the meets, but these are not guaranteed. It's better to arrive early than to miss your event. 

Events are announced over the PA system. When you hear "1st call for Midget Girls 1500 M run", you know the meet organizers are preparing for that event.  Even though you hear the 1st call, there is generally time to use the restroom, get a drink, etc. But, don't wait too long. When you hear the 2nd call, that event will start soon. If you aren't at the checkin, you could miss your event. The meet organizers (as a rule), will not wait for you. Be sure to listen for 1st and 2nd calls for your events. This is the athlete's and the parent's responsibility. Coaches will help, but with the number of youth on the team, the ultimate responsibility belongs with the athletes and parents

 Remember meets are progressive. You qualify at the 1st meet to progress to the 2nd, qualify at the 2nd to progress to the 3rd, etc. If you are unable to make it to a meet, you forfeit the chance to progress further. 

 MORE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS.....

 If I don't qualify for the next meet, can I still come to practices? Are there other meets?

Yes! You are encouraged to continue to come to practice. There are Summer Mini Meets organized by the Mid-America Running Association (see schedule ). There is also the Kansas Sunflower Games Track Meet in July. 

What are Mini Meets?

Mini-Meets are held on most Tuesday nights during June and July - our club will host 3 mini meets in July.  It is only $1 for each event you want to enter. There is no advance registration. They are fun and informal. Just show up and bring a fistful of dollars.

Where do I get entry forms for each meet?

Coac provides the entry form for the first meet. After that, you will pick up the entry form for the next meet at the qualifying meet. We hope to also make this information available on the site. Entry forms must usually be submitted within 1 to 3 days after the qualifying meet. You are responsible for submitting the entry forms. Don't wait too long and miss the entry deadline. In some cases missing the deadline will only mean paying an additional fee. In other instances, it could mean that your athlete cannot compete. 

What can I eat on track meet days? 

Eat a good breakfast. Go for carbohydrates - pancakes are a good choice. If you won't be competing for 3 hours or more, you may eat a moderate meal. If you will be competing in less than 3 hours it's a good idea to eat light. Bagels, bread, yogurt, fruit, energy bars, pasta salad, etc. REMEMBER TO STAY HYDRATED! This cannot be stressed enough. Hydration makes a huge difference in an athlete's performance. Parent's should stay hydrated too. It's often very hot at the meets, and you will lose fluids just watching the events. 

What do we need to take to the meets?

• · KC Cougars uniform
• · Running shoes and spikes 
• · AAU membership card
• · Copy of your birth certificate 
• · Plenty of water! · Sunscreen 
• · Light lunches and snacks (fruit, energy bars, bagels, pasta salad, etc.) 
• · Hats, umbrella, and sunglasses
• - Cooler with ice
• · Blankets or lawn chairs 
• · Camera and film 
• · Be prepared for cold, wet or hot weather.  Bring extra clothing as appropriate for potential weather. 

Youth track meets can move slowly due to the number of events and age groups being offered and the large number of participants. You should expect to spend the good part of the day, up to 4-7 hours, in the stands. Be prepared! 

Coach Rollins will have a tent set up for the athletes in the stands or designated grassy area.   As the announcer calls out the event the athlete must report as instructed so you must listen closely for your athlete.    

What about special equipment?

Field Events - Speak with one of our coaches to determine if there's equipment you'll need. 

Running Events- You''ll need a good pair of running shoes. Brand is not important. Choose a pair that fit well, provide good support, and are comfortable. 

Some athletes will wear track spikes for competitions. These are light-weight running shoes with small, replaceable spikes on the bottom. They give the athlete better traction, and due to their weight, make the athletes light on their feet. Speak with a coach about whether you need spikes. If you do, you can usually purchase them at athletic stores where you buy running shoes, or over the internet through sites like www.eastbay.com.