Back
to News
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA (July 9, 2026) — Two revisions in field events rules focused on reducing risk of injury highlight changes in high school track and field rules for the 2027 outdoor season. The two field events rules were among four revisions recommended by the NFHS Track and Field Rules Committee at its meeting last month in Indianapolis. All changes were subsequently approved by the NFHS Rules Review Committee and NFHS Board of Directors.
In an effort to reduce risk of injury during warmups in the shot put and discus, all attempts now must be made from inside the circle and facing the sector. No backward, over-the-head attempts will be allowed.
The committee noted that warm-up attempts by athletes standing on the toe board with their backs to the sector are dangerous because competitors cannot see if the area is clear before throwing the implement. With the rule change next year, a clear line of sight will be available to make sure the landing area is safe prior to an attempt.
Another safety-related change approved by the committee addresses the growing use of foreign substances on shoes in the throwing events. Language has been revised to provide coaches and officials with clearer guidance.
“Overall, the top priority for the rules committee is always the safety and well-being of the student-athletes, and this year’s committee meeting reflected that continued commitment,” said Julie Cochran, NFHS director of sports and middle schools and liaison to the Track and Field Rules Committee. “The rules committee continues to focus on minimizing risk in throws events and warm-ups to ensure a safer competitive environment. Overall, this was a highly productive meeting where the committee successfully balanced safety with practical rules revisions.”
The Track and Field Rules Committee also approved a revision in a rule change made last year in the vertical jumps, as well as a revision that provides games committees more flexibility in reporting for field events.
