The entry numbers for the NJSIAA Indoor Sectional and Non-Public Group Championships will look a little different during the 2024 indoor track and field season.
The recently released NJSIAA Regulations packet covers the changes below.
New For This Year's State Tournament
- This year each school will be allowed two (2) entries per individual events at the Public-School Sectional Meets and the Non-Public School Group Meets.
- Schools may list two alternates per event on their entry and must declare the two (2) athletes competing on the day of the meet.
- Public schools will have the option to enter three wild cards at the sectional level. Non-public schools will have the same option at the group level.
- Wildcard athletes and the event they will be competing in must be included on the original milesplit entry.
- Only one wild card can be used per event with a maximum of three wild cards per team.
- The Wild Card entries are final and cannot be changed.
In other words, entries per individual events have been reduced to two individuals and two alternates with the choice of a third wild card athlete in up to three events.
Relay entry numbers at these meets remain the same with four relay legs and four alternates.
How This Will Work On MileSplit Registration
- Coaches will enter as usual on the meet registration page.
- The main entries division, 2 competitors and 2 alternates, is similar to previous years.
- There will be a second division on the same entry page where coaches may select up to three wild card events naming the athletes they would wish to use.
- On meet day coaches highlight the athletes competing, including wild card options, at the clerking table as usual.
- A reminder that athletes must report back to the clerking area to be given their numbers and lane assignments and not assume them based off the live results.
Some Explanation on the Changes
The reduction in the base entries per event is aimed at helping control the long length of the meets.
It was recognized by a coaches committee involved in the conversation that certain teams who had built their programs strengths in particular events such as the distance, sprints, throws, or jumps depend on the flexibility to go all in on a particular event points wise.
Not only from a points perspective but for the sake of the competitive athletes looking to advance on those teams.
This is where the wild card option for up to three events comes into play, allowing coaches a third competitor in those chosen three events. Either as a points decision or to potentially move more athletes on to the next round.
Important NJSIAA Dates
Registration is Now Open