School track rules change      

Sector size to change in shot put and discus

[SEPT. 23, 2005]  BLOOMINGTON -- The Illinois Elementary School Association board of directors has adopted the National Federation of State High School Association's new sector size of 34.92 degrees for the state series in shot put and discus, effective this school term.

The Illinois High School Association will require the shot put and discus events in its track-and-field state series to use the 34.92-degree sector in each event this school term.

According to the national federation, Rules 6-4-5, 6-4-8 and 6-5-1 were modified to require all references and diagrams to reflect one standard sector at 34.92 degrees for shot put and discus competitions, effective 2006-07. However, since the Illinois High School Association is mandating the use of the smaller sector for its state meet series beginning this year, the Illinois Elementary School Association approved its use immediately for the elementary school state series in track and field. By having a common sector for the shot and discus, competitors will not have to guess which sector will be used for competition. The smaller 34.92-degree sector requires better control of the implements, reduces risk to spectators and is easier to lay out for meet administrators.

"This is a big change for competitors in the shot put and discus, but one that is designed to encourage good throwing technique," said Nicole Schaefbauer, IESA associate executive director and staff administrator for track and field. "It probably will take a little time for our coaches and athletes to get used to competing in the smaller sector. They should work hard on developing their skill throwing in the smaller sector from the very first day of practice this spring."

"The NFHS questionnaire suggested we implement the change in sector," said Mike Colbrese, committee chairman for track-and-field rules for the national federation and the executive director of the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association. "This minimizes risk to athletes and to spectators alike by encouraging good throwing technique and exerting better control."

Although the sector is minimized, spectators will still be expected to keep their distance from the throwing area, according to the national federation.

The Illinois Elementary School Association board also voted not to include the blunt-tipped javelin as an event in track and field.

[IESA news release]

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