Oregon School Activities Association
25200 SW Parkway Avenue, Suite 1
Wilsonville, OR 97070
503.682.6722 http://www.osaa.org
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 1 of 24
2024 TRACK & FIELD PLAN BOOK
Staff Contact: Kelly Foster, Assistant Executive Director, 503.682.6722 x233, kellyf@osaa.org
SEASON DATES
First Practice Date ........................................................................................................................................................... February 26
First Contest Date ................................................................................................................................................................ March 11
Cutoff Date ..............................................................................................................................................................................May 11
3A, 2A, 1A State Championships ....................................................................................................................................... May 16-17
6A, 5A, 4A State Championships ....................................................................................................................................... May 17-18
2024 NFHS TRACK & FIELD RULES
Order a NFHS Track & Field / Cross Country Rules Book from the OSAA Corner Store or contact the OSAA (503.682.6722) for
information.
For more information about NFHS Track & Field Rules, visit https://www.nfhs.org/activities-sports/track-fieldcross-country/ .
2024 NFHS RULES CHANGES
3-8-1: Permits the Games Committee to set requirements for each meet on the number of timing officials.
Rationale: As technology continues to evolve in the sports of track and field and cross country, not all FAT systems require
separate operators and evaluators. The Games Committee may set requirements for each meet on the number of timing officials.
4-2-1 NOTE (NEW): Permits state associations to set the participation limitations within their state, with six events being the
maximum number.
Rationale: Adds flexibility for state associations to determine the number of events best suited for their state.
5-3-1, 9-4-1 (NEW): Removed and corrected information concerning track staggers
Rationale: Track staggers are dependent on the geometry of each individual track, and a competent surveyor should determine
the lane staggers.
5-7-4c,d NOTE (NEW), 8-4-4 NOTE 2 (NEW): Extraneous motion before the device is fired does not necessarily require a false start
to be charged unless the runner leaves their mark with hand or foot after the set command or leaves their mark with a forward
motion without the starting device being fired.
Rationale: The change makes it clearer as to the definition of a false start and how it should be consistently officiated.
5-14-1, 2: Clarifies that displacement of any hurdle by hand is an infraction.
Rationale: Offers guidance to officials and umpires when determining hurdle infractions.
6-2-2d: Clarifies when a competitor enters a vertical jump for the first time, at any height, no matter the number of competitors
left that this competitor is only permitted one minute for their attempt.
Rationale: This clarifies in the vertical jumps how the rule is to be interpreted and adds additional support to the official's
decisions when a competitor enters after the event has been started.
6-3-2b: Added language in vertical jumps when breaking ties and competitors withdraw from the competition/jump-off.
Rationale: The addition offers guidance to officials when two or more tied competitors withdraw from the competition/jump-off
at the same time.
6-3-2b NOTES (NEW): Any athlete withdrawing from a jump-off concedes the higher place but retains their performance in the
event.
Rationale: The new note explains that an athlete withdrawing from a jump-off concedes the higher place but does not negate
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 2 of 24
their performance in the event nor is it unsporting to simply withdraw in this scenario. The addition of the new note helps explain
how to officiate these scenarios.
6-4-1, 6-5-1, 6-6-1: Permits athletes in the throws to apply tape to their fingers as long as the fingers are not taped together and
all fingers can move independently.
Rationale: The rules change offers flexibility to athletes to apply tape to their fingers or wear a wrist wrap as long as there are no
artificial aids within the wrap such as hard plastic pieces to keep the wrist stiff.
8-1 and 8-5: Re-organization of the cross country course layout.
Rationale: Offers guidance on the relay exchange zone for indoor track and field.
9-6-1 (NEW) Clarifies the indoor track and field exchange zone.
Rationale: Offers guidance on the relay exchange zone for indoor track and field.
2024 NFHS POINTS OF EMPHASIS
Fair Starts
It is the starter’s responsibility to ensure a fair and legal start and anticipate problems. The interval between the set command and
the firing of the starting device should be approximately two seconds. After a starter gives the order "set," if any competitor is in
motion, the starter shall not fire the starting device. Firing the starting device too soon doesn’t allow athletes to get ready, and
firing the starting device too slow also creates a situation of unfairness.
Starters may for any reason cancel a start by directing all competitors to “Stand Up." The following are some of the reasons that a
starter may cancel a start in races with legs of less than 800 meters:
• Noise at the start line,
• Starting block problem,
• Obstruction on the track,
• Slow athlete getting set,
• Misfire of starting pistol,
• Hands on the line,
• Extraneous movement after the set command. In distance races the following are some of the reasons that a starter could
halt or recall the start.
• Runners not steady,
• Toes on the line,
• Failure to come to the line in a timely manner,
• Impeding a position of another athlete,
• Fall during first 100 meters due to contact.
Starters play a huge role in fair, consistent and legal starts for student-athletes across all events.
2024 NFHS RULES INTERPRETATIONS
2024 NFHS COMMENTS ON THE RULES
3-8-1 — As technology continues to evolve in the sport of track and field and cross country, not all Fully Automated Timing systems
require separate operators and evaluators. The change gives the Games Committee and meet management the ability to set timing
official requirements for each individual meet.
4-2-1 NOTE (NEW) — This change gives state associations the flexibility to modify the number of permitted events for each athlete
beyond four events, provided it does not exceed six events.
5-3-1, 9-4-1 (NEW) — With the number of varying track sizes in the high school space the change clarifies that all track staggers are
dependent on the geometry of each individual track, and a competent surveyor should determine the lane staggers.
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 3 of 24
5-7-4c, d NOTE (NEW); 8-4-4 NOTE 2 (NEW) — This change provides a clear definition of a false start and how it should be
consistently officiated. Extraneous motion before the device is fired does not necessarily require a false start to be charged unless
the runner leaves their mark with hand or foot after the set command or leaves their mark with a forward motion without the
starting device being fired.
5-14-1, 2 — The rules change offers clearer guidance to officials and umpires officiating hurdle events and that if a hurdle is
displaced by hand this is an infraction.
6-2-2d (NEW) — This clarifies for officials and event judges that in the vertical jumps when a competitor enters for the first time, at
any height and no matter the number of competitors left, this competitor is only permitted one minute for their attempt. 6-3-2b —
The addition offers guidance to officials when two or more tied competitors withdraw from the competition/jump-off at the same
time.
6-3-2b NOTES (NEW) — The new note explains that an athlete withdrawing from a jumpoff concedes the higher place but does not
negate the performance in the event nor is it unsporting to simply withdraw in this scenario. The addition helps explain how to
officiate these scenarios.
6-4-1, 6-5-1, 6-6-1 — The rules change offers flexibility to athletes in throws events to apply tape to their fingers provided the
fingers are not taped together and all fingers can move independently. Additionally, it permits athletes to wear a wrist wrap as long
as there are no artificial aids within the wrap such as hard plastic pieces to keep the wrist stiff.
8-1, 8-5 — The rules change clarifies the course layout for ease of use by meet mangers and additionally reorganizes section on
teams into articles for easier reading.
9-6-1 (NEW) — The rules change offers guidance on the relay exchange zone in indoor track and field with the varying sizes of
indoor tracks across the country.
Requests for rule interpretations or explanations should be directed to the OSAA. The NFHS will assist in answering rules
questions from the state associations whenever called upon.
OSAA ADOPTED TRACK & FIELD RULES AND INTERPRETATIONS
The 2024 NFHS Track & Field and Cross Country Rules Book will be used.
OSAA TRACK & FIELD POLICIES
Effective outside Association Year.
1. SUMMER POLICY (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Revised Fall 2017)
A. All Sports. Summer activities under the direction of any person affiliated with the high school program, including
practices, contests, weight training and conditioning, are permissible throughout the summer, excluding the defined
Moratorium Week, and must consider the following points:
1) OSAA regulations regarding the Heat Index Calculator are always in effect. Athletes must be encouraged to stay
well hydrated at all times, especially in hot and humid conditions. This applies to outdoor activities and indoor
activities without air conditioning. See the NFHS statements on heat and hydration.
2) Implement a slow and gradual preseason-conditioning regimen that prepares the athlete for the rigors of the sport.
3) Slowly build up the intensity of activity over several days.
4) Have fitness tests (mile run, shuttle run times, maximum repetition exercises) scheduled the second week of
practices. Use a progressive, periodized program and evaluate performance once athletes are acclimated to the
stress about to be placed upon them.
5) Take into account the level of conditioning of all individuals and what their previous conditioning has been.
Athletes who have just finished a sports season should have at least a short period (one to two weeks) of relative
rest.
6) Slowly introduce new exercises or workout routines to allow for adaptation by muscle groups.
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 4 of 24
7) Provide adequate rest and recovery between repetitions in the weight room and especially during “gassers” and
intense station or “mat” drills.
8) Athletes should refrain from consuming high caffeine energy drinks and supplements, or other stimulants, as they
may contribute to dehydration. See the NFHS statement on energy drinks.
9) Athletes should refrain from extreme exercise during acute illness, if feeling ill, or while experiencing a fever.
Effective First Practice Date through End of HS Season.
1. PRACTICE MODEL (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Revised July 2021)
Schools and students are required to adhere to the following practice model.
C. All other sports (Cheerleading, Swimming, Wrestling, Basketball, Dance/Drill, Golf, Tennis, Track & Field, Baseball,
Softball)
1) All practices shall allow for water breaks and general acclimatization to hot and/or humid weather. Ample
amounts of water should always be available, and a student’s access to water should not be restricted. In
addition, all practices shall follow the fundamentals set forth in the NFHS’s Heat Acclimatization and Heat Illness
Prevention Position Statement. While the risk of heat illness is greatly dependent upon weather conditions, the
fundamentals in the NFHS’s Heat Acclimatization and Heat Illness Prevention Position Statement promote safety
and diminish injury risk in any setting.
2) Students may participate in multiple practice sessions per day, but not on consecutive days.
a) Single Practice Session. No single practice session shall be longer than three hours, including warm-up and
cool down. On days with a single practice session, students are limited to a maximum of one hour of weight
training either before or after practice but not both.
b) Multiple Practice Sessions. On days with multiple practice sessions, students shall not engage in more than
five hours of total practice, including warm-up and cool down. No single practice session shall be longer than
three hours, including warm-up and cool down. There must be at least three hours of recovery time between
the end of one practice session and the beginning of the next practice session on a day with multiple practice
sessions. During this recovery time, students may not engage in other physical activities (e.g., weight
training, etc.).
3) A student may not practice or participate in a contest for more than six consecutive days without a rest day. A rest
day must be complete rest – no organized team physical activity is allowed. Travel is allowed on a rest day.
4) A student shall become eligible to participate in a jamboree or interscholastic contest/meet after completing a
minimum of five days of actual practice unless the student participated in the immediately preceding season.
1. Q. Can the one-hour weight training session allowed on single practice days be conducted both prior to practice and
after practice if players only participate in one of the weight training sessions?
A. Yes, multiple one-hour weight training sessions may be held but individual players are limited to participation in
a single session.
2. Q. Is the one-hour weight training session allowed on single practice days required to be “immediately” prior to and
after the practice?
A. No, the training session does not have to immediately precede or follow the scheduled practice.
3. Q. Is the one-hour weight training session allowed on single practice days also allowed on multiple practice days?
A. No, weight training conducted on multiple practice days counts toward the daily five-hour practice limit.
4. Q. On single practice days may coaches conduct classroom-training sessions that would involve no physical activity?
A. Yes, classroom instruction that requires no physical activity is allowed and does not count towards the daily five-
hour practice limit.
5. Q. Is classroom instruction with no physical activity allowed during the required three-hour recovery period between
multiple practices?
A. Yes, classroom instruction that requires no physical activity is allowed during the recovery period.
6. Q. A team plans to conduct multiple practices on a single day but wants to reduce the length of each practice to 90
minutes. Can the team reduce the required recovery time of three hours between practice sessions because they
have used less than the maximum practice time allowed?
A. No, the three-hour recovery period between practices is required regardless of practice length.
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 5 of 24
7. Q. Are multiple practices on a single day required for all Fall teams?
A. No, teams are not required to have multiple practices on a single day. If multiple practices are conducted, the
second practice of the first two multiple practices days is a teaching session only.
8. Q. What is the definition of a “teaching session”?
A. During a teaching session, the intensity, duration, and pace of all practice components shall be modified from a
normal practice session. The focus of a teaching session should be directed at developing skills fundamental to
the sport at a significantly reduced pace. In Football, light contact with bags is allowed but Live Action situations
are prohibited. Practice components in all activities intended to develop skills while conditioning the athlete at
the same time are not allowed. Coaches are encouraged to use this “teaching session” to address offensive and
defensive strategies, skill development drills and other types of team building activities that do not involve
conditioning.
9. Q. How do you calculate practice time for multiple sport athletes participating in more than one Fall sport?
A. Practice hours are cumulative. On a single practice day, the three-hour practice limit may be split between the
two sports but the total practice time, including any breaks, must fit within the three-hour limit. On a multiple
practice day, the daily five-hour practice limit may be split between the two sports, but all required recovery
periods must be implemented. Any participation for a fraction of a half hour counts as a half hour towards the
daily practice limit.
10. Q. If Fall multiple sport athletes practice one hour with the Football team and two hours with the Soccer team, are
they required to have a recovery period between the two practices?
A. No, this is considered to be one three-hour practice and no recovery period is required. If the combined practice
time, including any breaks, exceeds three hours then a three-hour recovery is required.
11. Q. May a team practice for 2 hours, take a 30-minute break, and resume for 1 hour?
A. No, this would constitute a violation. Teams may not exceed the maximum practice time of three hours, including
all breaks within the schedule.
12. Q. In football, are 7-on-7 drills permissible during teaching sessions?
A. Yes, provided that they comply with the foregoing “teaching session” requirements.
2. PARTICIPATION LIMITATIONS (OSAA Handbook, Participation Limitations, Track and Field) (Revised Fall 2020)
A. Team. A school team shall not compete in more than 12 meets at each level of competition, exclusive of the varsity
district meet and state championships. A meet, whether one day or two days, shall count as one meet. There is no
limitation on the number of schools that may participate in a track and field meet. Any time a student participates
representing their school, it shall count toward the school’s team limitation.
B. Individual. A student shall not compete in more than 12 meets, exclusive of the varsity district meet and state
championships.
A contestant shall not enter or compete in more than two distance races – 800, 1500 and 3000. If a contestant does
enter or compete in all three-distance events, that contestant's team shall forfeit the meet. If a contestant violates
the Rules Book limit of four events but does not violate the Executive Board distance race limit, then all points earned
by that contestant in the meet are forfeited.
1. Q. If three schools compete in a track and field meet and score it not only as a triangular meet but also as two
separate dual meets for each school, how many meets are counted toward each school's limit of 12 meets?
A. One meet is counted against each school. It does not matter how many different ways the meet is scored.
3. INTERRUPTED CONTESTS (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Revised Fall 2015)
Following is the policy concerning interrupted athletic contests. NOTE: For state championship final site contests, the
OSAA staff shall take jurisdiction and make any decisions rather than the schools involved.
J. Track and Field. Contest shall be continued from point of interruption unless teams mutually agree otherwise or there
are district rules that apply. NOTE: If contest was interrupted during a running event, the event shall be repeated.
4. ENDOWMENT GAMES (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Endowment Game Application) (Revised September 2022)
The OSAA and its member schools believe in the fundamental values associated with participation in high school activities
and want to work together to ensure the future of high school activities in the state of Oregon. The establishment of the
OSAA Foundation will help us realize our goal. Endowment Games are a way for member schools and local communities
to be active participants in growing the OSAA Foundation. Endowment Games regulations are as follows:
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 6 of 24
A. Endowment Games applications must be submitted to the OSAA office by the host school prior to the scheduled contest.
Failure to do so may result in participation limitations violations. Applications may be reviewed prior to approval to ensure
that the host school is able to effectively secure the facility and charge admission (unless noted below).
B. Endowment Games shall not count toward a school’s or an individual student’s season participation limitations for
each activity. Daily and weekly individual participation limitations still apply. Schools should ensure that participants
meet all OSAA eligibility requirements prior to competing in an Endowment Game.
C. Endowment Games tickets will be $8 for adults and $5 for students. No passes shall be accepted except for the OSAA
Media Pass.
D. Upon completion of an Endowment Game, the host school is responsible for submitting the necessary financial report
form and 100% of the gate receipts to the OSAA Foundation for all activities except golf and tennis. The OSAA
Foundation will return 30% of the gross gate receipts to the host school within five business days after receiving the check
for gross gate receipts (except for golf and tennis). Operating expenses for Endowment Games are to be drawn from
the 30% of the gross gate receipts returned to the host school. Financial agreements, if any, between the two
participating schools are at the discretion of the schools.
E. Endowment Games are allowed at the varsity level only in the following activities:
9) Track & Field. One additional meet between the first contest date and the cutoff date.
1. Q. Are Endowment Games required?
A. No, Endowment Games are optional for all member schools.
2. Q. What happens when one basketball team is counting the contest as an Endowment Game, but the other team has
only scheduled 24 games?
A. If either team in a contest is counting the game as an Endowment Game, it is considered to be an Endowment Game.
3. Q. May a school play an Endowment Game doubleheader with its boys’ and girls’ basketball teams against another
school?
A. Yes.
4. Q. May teams play in multiple Endowment Games?
A. Yes, as long as the team does not exceed that sports Participation Limitation by more than one game/contest.
See “Participation Limitations” for additional information.
5. Q. May a school pay a flat fee for endowment games outside of tennis and golf?
A. No, the goal of the Foundation is to educate individuals to the Foundation and its goals. Tennis and Golf
normally do not charge gates as many of the other activities do or can.
STATE CHAMPIONSHIP INFORMATION
1. STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS POSTING TIMELINES:
A. Athletic Directors, Coaches and Spectators: Detailed information regarding the Track & Field State Championships
will be posted on the OSAA website (https://www.osaa.org/activities/btf) by April 25. It is essential that participating
teams and individuals access this information prior to the state championships. Included will be information regarding
ticket prices, parking, maps, how to submit souvenir program information, souvenir merchandise, etc.
B. District Meet Directors: Detailed information regarding District Meet Director responsibilities, including the state
championship entry form, will be posted on the OSAA website (https://www.osaa.org/activities/btf) by April 18.
Each District Meet Director must submit all state championship entries electronically via Athletic.net.
2. STATE CHAMPIONSHIP LOCATIONS AND TIMES:
A. 3A, 2A, 1A: May 16-17
1) Site: University of Oregon, Hayward Field, Eugene, OR 97403
2) Preliminaries: Thursday, May 16 / Finals: Friday, May 17
B. 6A, 5A, 4A: May 17-18
1) Site: University of Oregon, Hayward Field, Eugene, OR 97403
2) Preliminaries: Friday, May 17 / Finals: Saturday, May 18
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 7 of 24
3. CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFICATIONS:
A. All District Meets will follow NFHS Track and Field Rule 4-2-4(c) – “In meets which involve four or more schools, not
more than three contestants from a given school shall be allowed to enter an individual event.”
B. 6A:
1) Automatic Qualifiers: Top two placers in each individual and relay event at each district meet automatically
qualifies for the OSAA State Championships. If there is a tie for second place, it shall be determined by the league
prior to submitting the official state championship entries to the OSAA.
2) Wildcards: There are 2 additional spots for the next fastest times / marks from district meet finals.
3) Qualifying Standards: Championship finalists in individual and relay events at each district meet who meet the
qualifying standard (fourth place average of the last four OSAA State Championships) for individual events and
(third place average of the last three OSAA State Championships) for relays automatically qualify.
C. 5A:
1) Automatic Qualifiers: Top two placers in each individual and relay event at each district meet automatically
qualifies for the OSAA State Championships. If there is a tie for second place, it shall be determined by the league
prior to submitting the official state championship entries to the OSAA.
2) Wildcards: There are five additional spots for the next fastest times / marks from district meet finals.
3) Qualifying Standards: Championship finalists in individual and relay events at each district meet who meet the
qualifying standard (fourth place average of the last four OSAA State Championships) for individual events and
(third place average of the last three OSAA State Championships) for relays automatically qualify.
D. 4A:
1) Automatic Qualifiers: Top two placers in each individual and relay event at each district meet automatically
qualifies for the OSAA State Championships. If there is a tie for second place, it shall be determined by the league
prior to submitting the official state championship entries to the OSAA.
2) Wildcards: There is one additional spot for the next fastest time / mark from district meet finals.
3) Qualifying Standards: Championship finalists in individual and relay events at each district meet who meet the
qualifying standard (fourth place average of the last four OSAA State Championships) for individual events and
(third place average of the last three OSAA State Championships) for relays automatically qualify.
E. 3A:
1) Automatic Qualifiers: Top two placers in each individual and relay event at each of the six special district meets
automatically qualifies for the OSAA State Championships. If there is a tie for second place, it shall be determined
by the special district prior to submitting the official state championship entries to the OSAA.
2) Wildcards: There is one additional spot for the next fastest time / mark from special district meet finals.
3) Qualifying Standards: Championship finalists in individual and relay events at each of the six special district meets
who meet the qualifying standard (fourth place average of the last four OSAA State Championships) for individual
events and (third place average of the last three OSAA State Championships) for relays automatically qualify.
F. 2A:
1) Automatic Qualifiers: Top two placers in each individual and relay event at each of the four special district meets
automatically qualifies for the OSAA State Championships. If there is a tie for second place, it shall be determined
by the special district prior to submitting the official state championship entries to the OSAA.
2) Wildcards: There are four additional spots for the next fastest times / marks from special district meet finals.
3) Qualifying Standards: Championship finalists in individual and relay events at each of the four special district
meets who meet the qualifying standard (fourth place average of the last four OSAA State Championships) for
individual events and (third place average of the last three OSAA State Championships) for relays automatically
qualify.
G. 1A:
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 8 of 24
1) Automatic Qualifiers: Top two placers in each individual and relay event at each of the four special district meets
automatically qualifies for the OSAA State Championships. If there is a tie for second place, it shall be determined
by the special district prior to submitting the official state championship entries to the OSAA.
2) Wildcards: There are four additional spots for the next fastest times / marks from special district meet finals.
3) Qualifying Standards: Championship finalists in individual and relay events at each of the four special district
meets who meet the qualifying standard (fourth place average of the last four OSAA State Championships) for
individual events and (third place average of the last three OSAA State Championships) for relays automatically
qualify.
H. High Jump and Pole Vault:
Suggestion for State qualifying: In the rare case where Rule 6-3 does not break a tie for second place, equal team
points shall be awarded to those tied for second place. If those tied for second place are below the Qualifying
Standard, it is suggested that the second qualifier from that district be determined by Rule 6-3-2.
I. Para-Athletes (Para-Athlete Disability Certificate) (Revised Spring 2024)
1) Athletes who meet the qualifying standards at their district meet shall combine in the 100M, 400M, 1500M
and Shot Put regardless of gender or disability. The Para-Athlete Disability Certificate and documentation of
the disability must be provided to the OSAA prior to competing in the district meet. If more than eight
students qualify in an event, the OSAA will explore splitting out the events by gender or disability type
(wheelchair or ambulatory).
2) There are two divisions for which a para-athlete may qualify, wheelchair participants and ambulatory. All
athletes in grades 9-12 must meet OSAA eligibility requirements. For additional information see OSAA
Handbook, Rule 8, Individual Eligibility
a) Wheelchair: Athletes with permanent physical disability on file with the school.
b) Ambulatory: Athletes shall have a permanent orthopedic, neuromuscular or other physical disability. This
would include Visually impaired, Cerebral Palsy, Dwarf, and Amputee. Permanent orthopedic impairment
shall be verified by a licensed physician and maintained on permanent file at the school.
c) Cognitively or intellectually disabled students are not defined as Para-Athletes.
3) It is an expectation that those para-athletes who wish to attempt to qualify are participating in these events
during the regular season and that they establish a qualifying time/mark at the league/conference/district
qualifying meet. The qualifying time established at the league/conference/district meet will be used to seed
as many heats/flights as necessary to accommodate the qualifying field at the State Championships.
4) To facilitate training and competition for para-athletes it is recommended that all
leagues/conferences/districts include a para-athlete 100M, 400M, 1500M and Shot Put in their event
schedules. Prior to an event the host school should verify with their invited teams whether or not they have
para-athletes who would like to participate in one of these events.
J. Track Event Rules – Para-Athlete 100m, 400m & 1500m Races
The event shall follow NFHS and OSAA rules with the following OSAA modifications:
Track chair:
• The track chair shall have two rear wheels and one front wheel.
• The track chair frame shall not extend in front of the center of the front wheel hub.
• The track chair may have no mechanical gears or levers that would propel the chair.
• The steering must be hand operated. NO electronic steering is allowed.
• NO part of the track chair or frame may protrude past the furthest point of the rear wheel.
• Athlete’s lower limbs must be secured to the track chair. Any touch of the ground by the
lower limb results in disqualification from the event.
• Competitors are responsible for the proper functioning of the track chair. No event shall be delayed for
equipment failure prior to event.
Wheels:
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 9 of 24
• The maximum diameter of the rear wheel and inflated tire is 70 cm.
• The maximum diameter of the front wheel and inflated tire is 50 cm.
• Each rear wheel may have one hand rim.
Helmet and Gloves:
• All competitors must wear a CPSC certified helmet (Bike/Skate)
• All competitors must start each event using racing gloves.
• Athletes may only propel the chair forward by pushing on the wheels or hand rims.
The Race:
• The Start: The Center of the front axle (axle plane) may not extend over the starting line.
• The Finish: The finish of the race occurs when the center of the front axles (axle plane) crossing the finish
line.
• Passing or changing lanes: Competitors must have full clearance of another athlete’s front wheel in
order to pass or move into another lane. Failure to pass or change lanes correctly will result in
disqualification.
• Obstruction: Athletes may not touch or obstruct another competitor during an event. Obstruction of an
athlete will result in disqualification.
• Propulsion and steering: The wheelchair must be maneuvered with the hands and arms only.
Field Event Rules – Para-Athlete Shot Put:
• The event shall follow all OSAA and NFHS rules with the following modifications:
• Athletes who are in a wheelchair may compete in the same flight as ambulatory athletes but will be
placed separately by gender.
• All wheelchair competitors must put the shot from a “chair” (manual wheelchair, throwing chair, power
wheelchair).
• Scooters and “standing chairs” will not be allowed.
• The upper most part of the cushion/seat on any chair may not exceed 75 cm(29.5inches).
• The chair will be considered an extension of the athletes’ body. For example: any part of the chair
touching the top of the stop board is a foul.
• A coach may assist the athlete entering the circle.
• One buttock cheek must remain in contact with the seat during the throw.
• The athlete may have an individual hold the chair during the throw to prevent excessive movement.
Shot Put Weights:
• Boys will use an 8.81 lb. (4K) shot.
• Girls Category will use a 6 lb. shot.
State Championships Scoring Procedures:
Para-athletes will compete in combined flights, regardless of gender or disability type (wheelchair or
ambulatory), until we reach a minimum of at least eight wheelchair and/or ambulatory entries from qualifying
events.
• If eight or more wheelchair and/or ambulatory athletes qualify, entries will be separated into timed
finals by disability type and fields will continue to contain mixed genders. Scoring will be separated by
gender and disability type (wheelchair or ambulatory).
• In the case of less than eight wheelchair and/or ambulatory athletes qualifying, entries will participate
as a timed final regardless of disability type and fields will contain mixed genders. Scoring will be
separated by gender and disability type (wheelchair or ambulatory).
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 10 of 24
Example Situation – Five para-athletes qualify in the 100M. Three of the entries are wheelchair and the other two
entries are ambulatory.
Lane
Participant
Type
School
Finish
Inclusion Points Awarded
2
Boy A
Ambulatory
School 1
4
5
3
Boy B
Wheelchair
School 2
1
5
4
Girl A
Ambulatory
School 1
2
5
5
Girl B
Ambulatory
School 3
3
3
6
Girl C
Wheelchair
School 4
5
5
In this example, we have five total teams competing in the para-athlete division – two Boys Teams (one ambulatory
and one wheelchair) and three Girls Teams (two ambulatory and one wheelchair). Standard NFHS scoring (outlined
in the chart below) provides the point structure that will be used. Since Boy B was the timed final Boys Wheelchair
winner he earns five points. Girl A (second place finisher in the timed final) is the Girls Ambulatory winner and earns
five points. Boy A is the fourth place finisher (first place Boys Ambulatory winner) so he earns five points. Girl B is
the second place Girls Ambulatory finisher and earns three points. Girl C is the first place Girls Wheelchair finisher
and earns five points.
Below is a chart summarizing individual point structure based on number of teams participating by gender.
Number of Teams Competing
in the Event
Individual Scoring
1
5 – 3
2
5 – 3 – 1
3
5 – 3 – 2 – 1
4
6 – 4 – 3 – 2 – 1
5
8 – 6 – 4 – 2 – 1
6
10 – 8 – 6 – 4 – 2 – 1
7 or more (6 scoring)
10 – 8 – 6 – 4 – 2 – 1
7 or more (7 scoring)
10 – 8 – 6 – 4 – 3 – 2 – 1
7 or more (8 scoring)
10 – 8 – 6 – 5 – 4 – 3 – 2 – 1
Team Scoring Procedures:
Team points earned by wheelchair and/or ambulatory athletes will be added back to the represented school to be
added to their overall team point score. If the points from the athlete(s) moves a team to trophy consideration and
those combined points overtake another school, dual trophies will be presented for that trophy position.
Example –
• 1st Team A: 80 team points (no wheelchair or ambulatory entries)
• 2nd Team B: 70 team points (no wheelchair or ambulatory entries)
• 3rd Team C: 60 team points (no wheelchair or ambulatory entries)
• 4th Team D: 50 team points (no wheelchair or ambulatory entries)
• 5th Team E: 48 team points (wheelchair or ambulatory entries)
Teams A, B, C and D do not have wheelchair or ambulatory entries. Team E had one wheelchair athlete qualify and
they score three team points in the event. Adding the wheelchair athlete’s team points to the overall team score
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 11 of 24
move Team E into 4th place position with 51 points. Teams D and E would both receive a 4th place championship
trophy.
K. Awards:
1) Trophies – If a school is already in trophy posion and the inclusion points earned by an athlete(s) moves a
school up (i.e., 3rd to 2nd) a school will receive both trophies.
2) Medals – Champion through 8
th
place medals will be awarded in each event by gender and disability type
(wheelchair or ambulatory).
4. STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS – INDIVIDUAL SPORT SUBSTITUTIONS (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Revised Winter
2015)
A. The following shall be the policy for substitutions in individual sport State Championship events. All individuals who
are substitutes for individual qualifiers must have participated in a District or Special District Meet.
B. Track and Field
1) Event Limitation. NFHS rules allow an athlete to be entered in four events, excluding relays. Coaches of athletes
entered in four events and both relays have until 4pm on the Monday preceding the state championship to notify
the OSAA of the four events in which the athlete will compete in at the state championship. Failure to notify the
OSAA by the indicated deadline shall result in the athlete being scratched first from the 4x100 Relay and then
from the 4x400 Relay, if needed.
2) Multiple Event Qualifiers and Relays. This deadline is for a participant withdrawing from the championship in
one event but remaining in others and for submission of up to six names for a relay team.
a) Multiple Event Qualifiers: Except as indicated below, participants who qualify in more than one event shall
participate in all the events for which they qualify from preliminaries to finals.
(1) If a District Meet Director notifies the OSAA of a change prior to 4pm on the Monday preceding the state
championship, an individual may drop from one or more events in which they are qualified. The next
place winner at the District Meet in the respective event or events is eligible as a substitute.
(2) If the OSAA has not been notified of a change prior to 4pm on the Monday preceding the state
championship, the participant who has qualified in multiple events must compete in all qualified events
or they shall be scratched from all events in which the participant has qualified.
b) Relay Event Entries: Qualifying teams may enter the names of up to six individuals in relay events.
(1) Qualifying relay teams failing to enter six individuals may not add individuals to the state championship
meet after the established Monday 4pm deadline. However, after the established Monday 4pm
deadline, any of the entered relay team members may be replaced by the Wednesday 4pm deadline by
an athlete already in the meet. If only four or five relay members are entered by the Monday 4pm
deadline, nobody may be added to the relay team.
(2) Any four of the listed individuals may compete and it shall count as an event only for the four who compete.
3) Single or Multiple Event Qualifiers Dropping All Events or Substitutions only on Relays. This deadline is for a
participant dropping out of the state championship and being replaced by another participant or participants.
a) If a District Meet Director notifies the OSAA by 4pm two business days prior to the first day of the state
championship that a single event or multiple event qualifier is dropping all events, a substitution or
substitutions may be made.
b) The next place winner at the District Meet in the respective event or events is eligible as a substitute.
OSAA GENERAL POLICIES
1. ATTACHED AND UNATTACHED COMPETITION / EXHIBITION (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Revised August 2012)
Following is the policy regarding attached and unattached competition:
A. A high school team shall not compete against an unattached team (e.g., club team).
B. Students representing a high school shall not compete against unattached individuals.
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 12 of 24
C. Students shall not represent a high school and participate in a competition or exhibition as unattached on the same
day at the same venue/facility.
2. CERTIFICATION – ATHLETIC DIRECTORS AND COACHES (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Revised May 2023)
Athletic directors and coaches shall achieve certification in the following areas prior to assuming duties as an athletic director
or coach. The high school principal shall be held accountable for verifying that athletic directors and coaches have been
certified. EXCEPTION: Any emergency exception to an OSAA requirement must be authorized in writing by the OSAA.
A. Interscholastic Coaching Course. The OSAA requires that athletic directors and coaches must either complete the
OSAA Beyond the Scoreboard online course or achieve a passing score on the test included with the NFHS
Fundamentals of Coaching course. This is a one-time requirement.
B. Concussion Recognition and Management Training. The OSAA and Oregon State Law (ORS 336.485) requires that
athletic directors and coaches receive training to learn how to recognize the symptoms of a concussion and how to
seek proper medical treatment for a person suspected of having a concussion. The NFHS’s Concussion in Sports free
course satisfies this requirement. This training is required annually.
C. NFHS Heat Illness Prevention. The OSAA requires that athletic directors and coaches must achieve a passing score on
the test included with the NFHS’s Heat Illness Prevention free course. This training is required once every four years.
D. Anabolic Steroids and Performance-Enhancing Substances Training. The OSAA and Oregon State Law (ORS 342.726)
require that athletic directors and coaches receive training on identifying the components of anabolic steroid abuse
and use and prevention strategies for the use of performance-enhancing substances. This training is required once
every four years.
E. OSAA Interrupting and Preventing Discriminatory Acts Training. The OSAA requires all athletic directors and coaches
complete the OSAA Interrupting and Preventing Acts Training to be prepared to work collaboratively and act if
discriminatory or harassing incident occurs during an interscholastic event. This training is a one-time requirement.
F. Spirit Safety Clinic (Cheerleading and Dance/Drill Coaches Only). The OSAA requires that any cheerleading or
dance/drill coach receive spirit safety training by achieving a passing score on the test included with the OSAA’s online
Spirit Safety Clinic. This training is required annually.
G. OSAA Football Certification.
1) All Football Coaches. The OSAA requires that any football coach complete the OSAA Football Certification prior
to assuming coaching duties and to recertify annually prior to the beginning of each Association year.
2) Player Safety Coaches. Each member school sponsoring football is required to identify a Player Safety Coach.
Each Player Safety Coach Is required to attend an in-person clinic biennially prior to the start of the Association
year that is conducted by a OSAA Football Master Trainer in preparation for implementing and overseeing the
primary components of OSAA Football at their school.
3) OSAA Football Certification required courses: http://www.osaa.org/coaches/requirements
a) Concussion Recognition and Management Training (annually).
b) NFHS Heat Illness Prevention (annually).
c) NFHS Football Tackling Course (annually).
d) Sudden Cardiac Arrest (annually).
1. Q. Does certification through the American Sport Education Program (ASEP) satisfy the requirement in Rule 1.4?
A. Yes, so long as the athletic director or coach was certified through ASEP prior to August 1, 2007. Thereafter, the
OSAA Beyond the Scoreboard online course or NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching course will satisfy this
requirement unless an exception is granted in writing by the OSAA.
2. Q. When must a coach be certified?
A. All coaches must be certified prior to assuming coaching duties unless an emergency exception is authorized in
writing by the OSAA. This includes cheerleading coaches, dance/drill coaches and choreographers at schools that
do not participate in competitions.
3. Q. Is certification required of volunteer coaches?
A. Yes.
4. Q. Must a “guest” coach be certified?
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 13 of 24
A. No, but if the coach has contact with students more than three times in a sport season, the coach shall no longer be
considered a “guest” and must be certified. A non-certified “guest” coach may not serve as a coach at a contest.
5. Q. May a school bring in alumni or other non-high school personnel to scrimmage with teams or individuals as “guest
coaches” if those personnel are limited to student contact on no more than three occasions during the sport season?
A. No. The “guest coach” exception is intended to allow a limited number of visits by a guest instructor; it is NOT
intended to allow coaches to bring in coaches or players to participate in drills or scrimmages against teams or
individuals. Any attempt to circumvent the Participation Limitations by calling practice participants “guest
coaches” would be a violation of OSAA rules.
6. Q. In individual sports, may a parent or non-certified coach accompany a participant to a contest as the school
representative if that person is an authorized representative of the principal?
A. Yes, but the authorized representative may not coach the participant unless specific permission has been
granted in writing by the Executive Director.
7. Q. Does the OSAA require high school coaches to have current first aid certification?
A. No. However, coaches should check with their athletic directors as most high schools have this as a requirement.
8. Q. What is required of a Player Safety Coach (PSC) during the year they attend an in-person PSC clinic in order to be
OSAA Football certified?
A. Coaches attending an in-person PSC clinic are required to complete the following online courses to be OSAA
Football certified during the year they attend an in-person PSC clinic: Concussion Recognition and Training; Heat
Illness Prevention; Sudden Cardiac Arrest.
9. Q. What is required of every football coach, including previously certified PSC coaches, not attending an in-person
PSC clinic in order to be OSAA Football certified?
A. Every football coach, including previously certified PSC coaches, not attending an in-person PSC clinic is required
to complete the following online courses to be OSAA Football certified: Concussion Recognition and Training; Heat
Illness Prevention; NFHS Football Tackling Course; Sudden Cardiac Arrest.
3. CHARITABLE CAUSES (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Fall 2012)
The OSAA is supportive of charitable initiatives and has developed guidelines regarding an athletic competition being held
in the name of a charitable cause. Schools may host a contest in recognition of a charitable cause under the following
conditions:
A. Uniform color must be legal under NFHS rules. Example: Breast cancer awareness pink uniforms would not be legal
in sports that require white and dark uniforms because pale pink is neither. Pale pink would be a legal color uniform
in sports that require LIGHT and dark uniforms.
B. A permanently attached commemorative patch may be worn but must adhere to NFHS rules in each specific sport.
C. Colored game balls may not be used during competition unless they are legal under NFHS rules. They may be used
during any warm-up period prior to the contest, except in softball and baseball.
D. Basketball Only: Pink headbands or wristbands, not legal under NFHS basketball rules unless pink is a school color,
are allowed. Note that all team members must be uniform in color of headbands or wristbands.
E. Officials may use a colored whistle.
4. CONCUSSION MANAGEMENT (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Revised Summer 2020)
(Medical Release – Return to Participation Following a Concussion) (Medical Release – Return to Learn Following a Concussion)
A. Member School’s Responsibilities (Max’s Law, ORS 336.485, OAR 581-022-0421) (Jenna’s Law, ORS 417.875)
(Qualified Health Care Professional, ORS 336.490)
1) Suspected or Diagnosed Concussion. Any athlete who exhibits signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a
concussion following an observed or suspected blow to the head or body, or who has been diagnosed with a
concussion, shall not be permitted to return to that athletic contest or practice, or any other athletic contest or
practice on that same day. In schools which have the services of an athletic trainer licensed by the Oregon Board
of Athletic Trainers, that athletic trainer may determine that an athlete has not exhibited signs, symptoms, or
behaviors consistent with a concussion, and has not suffered a concussion, and return the athlete to play. Athletic
trainers may also work in consultation with a Qualified Health Care Professional (see below) in determining when
an athlete is able to return to play following a concussion.
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 14 of 24
2) Return to Participation. Until an athlete who has suffered a concussion is no longer experiencing signs,
symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a concussion, and a medical release form signed by a Qualified Health
Care Professional is obtained, the athlete shall not be permitted to return to athletic activity. As of July 1, 2020,
ORS 336.490 requires athletes be cleared by one of these Oregon Qualified Healthcare Professionals: Medical
Doctor (MD), Osteopathic Doctor (DO), Chiropractic Doctor (DC), Naturopathic Doctor (ND), Nurse Practitioner
(NP), Physician Assistant (PA), Physical Therapist (PT), Occupational Therapist (OT) or Psychologist who is licensed
or registered under the laws of Oregon. Before signing any RTP forms, except for MD and DO signers, course
completion certificates from the Oregon Concussion Return-To-Play Education must be obtained by all DC, ND,
PT and OT and, after July 1, 2021, by all NP, PA and Psychologists.
3) Private Schools Only. (Concussion-Private School Informed Consent)
On an annual basis prior to participation, private schools shall require each athlete and at least one parent or legal
guardian of the athlete to sign the Concussion – Private School Informed Consent form acknowledging the receipt
of information regarding symptoms and warning signs of concussions. Private schools shall maintain a copy of
each athlete’s signed form on file for review at any time by OSAA staff.
B. Official’s Responsibilities.
An official shall remove an athlete from a contest when that athlete exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent
with a concussion due to an observed or suspected blow to the head or body. The official shall document and notify
the head coach or their designee making sure that the head coach or designee understands that the athlete is being
removed for exhibiting signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion as opposed to behavior, a non-
concussive injury or other reasons. The official is not responsible for evaluation or management of the athlete after
they are removed from play. The official does not need written permission for an athlete to return nor does the official
need to verify the credentials of the Qualified Health Care Professional who has cleared the athlete to return. The
responsibility of further evaluating and managing the symptomatic athlete falls upon the school and an appropriate
Qualified Health Care Professional.
5. HAIR DEVICE / ADORNMENT (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Revised July 2022)
The OSAA aims to be inclusive of all students from varying cultural backgrounds to access athletic and activity programs
provided at member schools, while providing a fair and safe environment. This policy was developed inclusive of the
language established in Oregon House Bill 2935 (June 2021) and in collaboration with the OSAA Diversity, Equity, and
Inclusion Committee and other stakeholders. The OSAA recognizes that this policy will need to be reviewed on a regular
basis and continued education to member schools will be required to ensure understanding of this policy. The OSAA
recognizes the value of athletic and activity programs for all students and the potential for inclusion to reduce harassment,
bullying and barriers faced by certain students. The OSAA also recognizes the concerns of students, parents, and coaches
to ensure a fair, equitable, and safe competitive environment.
A. Oregon Revised Statutes Language.
1) ORS 659A.001, amended to read:
a) “Protective hairstyle” means a hairstyle, hair color or manner of wearing hair that includes, but is not limited
to, braids, regardless of whether the braids are created with extensions or styled with adornments, locs and
twists.
b) “Race” includes physical characteristics that are historically associated with race, including but not limited to
natural hair, hair texture, hair type and protective hairstyles.
2) ORS 332.075, amended to read: (1) Any school district board may: (e) Authorize the school district to be a member
of and pay fees, if any, to any voluntary organization that administers interscholastic activities or facilitates the
scheduling and programming of interscholastic activities only if the organization: (A) Implements equity focused
policies that:
a) Address the use of derogatory or inappropriate names, insults, verbal assaults, profanity or ridicule that
occurs at an interscholastic activity, including by spectators of the interscholastic activity;
b) Prohibit discrimination as defined in ORS 659.850;
c) Permit a student to wear religious clothing in accordance with the student’s sincerely held religious belief
and consistent with any safety and health requirements; and
d) Balance the health, safety and reasonable accommodation needs of participants on an activity-by-activity
basis;
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 15 of 24
3) ORS 659.850, amended to read: (B) “Discrimination” does not include enforcement of an otherwise valid dress
code or policy, as long as the code or policy:
a) Provides, on a case-by-case basis, for reasonable accommodation of an individual based on the health and
safety needs of the individual; and
b) Does not have a disproportionate adverse impact on members of a protected class to a greater extent than
the policy impacts person generally.
c) “Race” includes physical characteristics that are historically associated with race, including but not limited to
natural hair, hair texture, hair type and protective hairstyles as defined in ORS 659A.001.
B. Athletic and Activity Programs Adhering to NFHS Rules Prohibiting Hair Adornments. Oregon Revised Statute
requires OSAA to implement equity focused policies that balance the health, safety, and reasonable accommodation
needs of participants on an activity-by-activity basis. After careful review, and in alignment with Oregon Revised
Statute and other rule-governing bodies, the OSAA is adhering to NFHS rules prohibiting hair adornments in the
following athletics and activities due to health and safety considerations.
1) Football – Maintain current NFHS rules due to health and safety considerations. Prohibited per NFHS Football
Rule 1-5 Article 3.
2) Wrestling – Maintain current NFHS rules due to health and safety considerations. Prohibited per NFHS Wrestling
Rules 3-1-4b and 4-2-1.
C. Athletic and Activity Programs Already Allowing Hair Adornment per NFHS Rules. OSAA-sanctioned athletics and
activities where hair adornments are already allowed by NFHS or rule-governing bodies.
Baseball
Basketball
Cheerleading
Cross Country
Dance
Golf
Soccer
Softball
Swimming
Tennis
Track & Field
Volleyball
6. AIR QUALITY GUIDELINES (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Revised February 2024)
These guidelines, created in consultation with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Oregon Department of Environmental
Quality (DEQ), provide a default policy to those responsible or sharing duties for making decisions concerning the cancellation,
suspension and/or restarting of practices and contests based on poor air quality.
A. Designate Personnel: Given the random behavior of wind and air currents, air quality may change quickly. Schools shall
designate someone who will monitor the air quality prior to and during outdoor activities. While typically due to wildfires,
schools need to also consider non-wildfire situations if the air quality is unhealthy.
B. Areas near DEQ/AirNow Reporting Stations: The Air Quality Index (AQI) should be monitored throughout the day, and during
an event, to have the best data possible to make informed decisions about conducting practices and competitions. Schools
should always defer to the monitor that is the nearest physical distance to the practice or contest facility. School personnel
shall review the AQI information for all regions throughout the state to determine if action is necessary (see chart below).
Schools shall regularly review the AQI throughout events to assess deteriorating conditions. School personnel shall use the
AirNow Fire and Smoke Map at https://fire.airnow.gov. This map shows circles for DEQ/AirNow monitors and squares for
Purple Air monitors. Purple Air monitors have been calibrated by EPA to provide data comparable to permanent monitors.
C. Areas without Air Reporting Stations: If air monitoring equipment is not available, member schools should utilize the 5-3-1
Visibility Index to determine air quality.
1) 5-3-1 Visibility Index: Making visual observations using the 5-3-1 Visibility Index is a simple way to estimate air quality
and know what precautions to take. While this method can be useful, you should always use caution and avoid going
outside if visibility is limited, especially if you are sensitive to smoke.
(a) Determine the limit of your visual range by looking for distant targets or familiar landmarks such as mountains,
mesas, hills, or buildings at known distances. The visual range is that point at which these targets are no longer
visible. As a rule of thumb: If you can clearly see the outlines of individual trees on the horizon it is generally less
than five miles away. It is highly recommended that schools use pre-determined landmarks that were established
on a clear day to determine their visual range.
(b) Ideally, the viewing of any distant targets should be made with the sun behind you. Looking into the sun or at an
angle increases the ability of sunlight to reflect off of the smoke, thus making the visibility estimate less reliable.
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 16 of 24
(c) Be aware that conditions may change rapidly and always use the more conservative of multiple metrics (AQI, 5-3-1
Visibility Index, etc.).
D. Act: This chart will help determine the action needed based on the air quality in your area.
E. Additional Resources: Schools may also refer to OHA’s fact sheet regarding School Outdoor Activities During Wildfire Events
at https://apps.state.or.us/Forms/Served/le8815h.pdf.
F. Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Rules: Schools should familiarize themselves with Oregon OSHA
permanent rules adopted in Summer 2022 regarding reducing heat and wildfire smoke outdoor workplace exposure for employees.
OSHA resources can be accessed here for Heat – https://osha.oregon.gov/Pages/topics/heat-stress.aspx and Wildfires
https://osha.oregon.gov/Pages/topics/wildfires.aspx
7. HEAT INDEX (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Heat Index Calculator) (Heat Index Record) (Fall 2014)
Schools shall monitor the Heat Index for their geographic area prior to practice. Outlined below are the steps that each member
school shall take to implement this policy. NOTE: Indoor activities where air conditioning is available are not bound by this policy.
A. Subscribe. Athletic directors and coaches shall subscribe to OSAA Heat Index Notifications at http://www.osaa.org/heat-index.
An OSAA Heat Index Alert is generated for areas where the forecasted high temperature and relative humidity indicate a
forecasted heat index that may require practice modifications. Only those areas that have a forecasted heat index of 95 or
higher receive alerts. Notifications are sent daily via e-mail and/or SMS to subscribers.
B. Designate. Schools shall designate someone who will take the necessary steps to determine and record the heat index for
your geographic area within one hour of the start of each team’s practice. This is only necessary on days when the school
receives an OSAA Heat Index Alert. Depending on practice schedules, it is possible that the designated person will have to
record the heat index multiple times on the same day.
C. Calculate. Within one hour of the start of each team’s practice on days when the school receives an OSAA Heat Index Alert,
the designated person shall utilize the OSAA Heat Index Calculator to determine the actual heat index.
Air Quality Index
(AQI)
5-3-1 Visibility
Index
Required Actions for Outdoor Activities
51 -100
5-15 Miles
Athletes who are unusually sensitive to air pollution should consider indoor activities
only. Athletes with asthma should have rescue inhalers readily available and
pretreat before exercise if directed by their healthcare provider. All athletes with
respiratory illness, asthma, lung or heart disease should monitor symptoms and
reduce/cease activity if symptoms arise. Increase rest periods as needed.
101 -150
3-5 Miles
Athletes who are unusually sensitive to air pollution should consider indoor activities
only. Athletes with asthma should have rescue inhalers readily available and
pretreat before exercise if directed by their healthcare provider. All athletes with
respiratory illness, asthma, lung or heart disease should monitor symptoms and
reduce/cease activity if symptoms arise. Athletes with asthma or other lung
deseases, heart conditions or diabetes may need additional rest breaks during
practices / contests. Consider rescheduling to a different time and / or an area with
a lower AQI. Schools should consider the impact of elevated AQI lasting for multiple
days and the impact of prologned exposure for athletes and staff on multiple
practice session days when making decisions. Consider moving practices indoors , if
available. Be aware that, depending on a venue’s ventilation system, indoor air
quality levels can approach outdoor levels.
151 -200
1-3 Miles
All outdoor activities (practice and competition) shall be canceled or moved to an
area with a lower AQI. Move practices indoors, if available. Be aware that,
depending on a venue’s ventilation system, indoor air quality levels can approach
outdoor levels.
>200
1 Mile
All outdoor activities (practice and competition) shall be canceled or moved to an
area with a lower AQI. Move practices indoors, if available. Be aware that,
depending on a venue’s ventilation system, indoor air quality levels can approach
outdoor levels.
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 17 of 24
D. Record. If the actual heat index is 95 or higher, the designated person shall record it using the OSAA Heat Index Record or by
printing out a copy to be kept at the school for inspection at the request of the OSAA. A separate record shall be kept for
each fall sport at each level. Practice modifications, as necessary, shall also be recorded. If the actual heat index is less than
95, no action is needed.
E. Act. If the actual heat index is 95 or higher, activity should be altered and/or eliminated using the following guidelines:
10) 95˚ to 99˚ Heat Index – OSAA Recommendation: Consider postponing practice to later in the day.
a) Maximum of five hours of practice.
b) Practice length a maximum of three hours.
c) Mandatory three-hour recovery period between practices.
d) Contact sports and activities with additional equipment - helmets and other possible equipment removed if not
involved in contact or necessary for safety.
e) Provide ample amounts of water.
f) Water shall always be available and athletes should be able to take in as much water as they desire.
g) Watch/monitor athletes for necessary action.
11) 100˚ to 104˚ Heat Index – OSAA Recommendation: Postpone practice to later in the day.
a) Maximum of five hours of practice.
b) Practice length a maximum of three hours.
c) Mandatory three-hour recovery period between practices.
d) Alter uniform by removing items if possible - allow for changes to dry t-shirts and shorts.
e) Contact sports and activities with additional equipment - helmets and other possible equipment removed if not
involved in contact or necessary for safety.
f) Reduce time of planned outside activity as well as indoor activity if air conditioning is unavailable.
g) Provide ample amounts of water.
h) Water shall always be available and athletes should be able to take in as much water as they desire.
i) Watch/monitor athletes for necessary action.
1) Above 104˚ Heat Index – OSAA Recommendation: Stop all outside activity in practice and/or play and stop all inside
activity if air conditioning is unavailable.
8. LIGHTNING SAFETY GUIDELINES (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Revised Fall 2018)
NFHS Position Statements & Guidelines
A. These guidelines provide a default policy to those responsible or sharing duties for making decisions concerning the
suspension and restarting of practices and contests based on the presence of lightning or thunder.
B. Proactive Planning:
1) Assign staff to monitor local weather conditions before and during practices and contests.
2) Develop an evacuation plan, including identification of appropriate nearby safe areas and determine the amount of time
needed to get everyone to a designated safe area.
a) A designated safer place is a substantial building with plumbing and wiring where people live or work, such as a
school, gymnasium, or library. An alternate safer place for the threat of lightning is a fully enclosed (not convertible
or soft top) metal car or school bus.
3) Develop criteria for suspension and resumption of play:
a) When thunder is heard, or a cloud-to-ground lightning bolt is seen*, the leading edge of the thunderstorm is close
enough to strike your location with lightning. Suspend play for at least 30 minutes and vacate the outdoor activity
to the previously designated safer location immediately.
b) Thirty-minute Rule. Once play has been suspended, wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder is heard or
lightning is witnessed* prior to resuming play.
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 18 of 24
c) Any subsequent thunder or lightning* after the beginning of the 30-minute count will reset the clock and another
30-minute count should begin.
d) When lightning detection devices or mobile phone apps are available, this technology could be used to assist in
deciding to suspend play if a lightning strike is noted to be within 10 miles of the event location. However, you
should never depend on the reliability of these devices and, thus, hearing thunder or seeing lightning* should always
take precedence over information from a mobile app or lightning detection device.
*At night under certain atmospheric conditions, lightning flashes may be seen from distant storms. In these cases,
it may be safe to continue an event. If no thunder can be heard and the flashes are low on the horizon, the storm
may not pose a threat. Independently verified lightning detection information would help eliminate any uncertainty.
4) Review annually with all administrators, coaches and game personnel and train all personnel.
5) Inform student-athletes of the lightning policy at the start of the season.
9. ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS / AREA-WIDE EMERGENCY PROCEDURES (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (May 2020)
There may be times in the interest of minimizing risk due to adverse weather conditions and/or a clear area-wide emergency that
it becomes necessary to postpone, cancel, and/or reschedule regular season or postseason events. The intent of this policy is to
outline procedures and policies to provide guidance to OSAA member schools when such conditions impact an event.
A. Regular Season Events
1) Administrators have the responsibility to define and communicate contingency plans in the event of adverse weather
conditions and/or a clear area-wide emergency. A stepwise progression that places emphasis on minimizing risk for
athletes, coaches, contest staff, spectators, and contest officials will be used to help guide decision makers on the
appropriate course of action.
2) The following steps shall be taken:
a) Suspend the Event: NFHS rules allow officials to “delay” or “suspend” any contest where factors may endanger the
participants. At no time may officials “terminate” a contest between schools unless administrators or
representatives from each school mutually agree to end the contest. If the participating schools involved mutually
agree to end the game the contest will be considered complete. Officials should use the following guidelines when
choosing to suspend a contest:
Starting Time of the Event
8am to 12pm
12:01pm to 3:30pm
3:31pm to 6pm
After 6pm
Maximum Suspension
3 hours
2 hours
1.5 hours
1 hour
b) Modify the Event: NFHS rules in most athletics and activities allow for modifications to timing and structure if
necessary, with mutual agreement of participating schools, to address factors that may endanger the participants.
c) Reschedule the Event: When situations arise involving a suspension of play and the participating schools cannot
reach mutual agreement on ending the contest, the following steps shall be taken:
(1) Convene a meeting between representatives from participating teams;
(2) Review and record contest details up to the point of suspension;
(3) Review each of the following options;
Option
Implication
Contest Result
Schools agree to reschedule contest
during the current game week (i.e.,
Friday game, continued on Saturday
or Sunday).
See Executive Board Policy,
“Interrupted Contests” procedures
for specific sport/activity.
Upon conclusion
result is final.
Schools agree to reschedule contest
during a future game week (i.e.,
Friday game, continued on following
Tuesday).
See Executive Board Policy,
“Interrupted Contests” procedures
for specific sport/activity.
Upon conclusion
result is final.
Schools cannot reach agreement on
when to reschedule contest.
Contest is suspended.
No Result.
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 19 of 24
d) Cancel the Event: Cancelling the contest is not an option if the cancellation has a bearing on advancing a team(s) to
the final site.
B. OSAA Final Site Events
1) A culminating event shall be defined as the event(s) conducted at the final site only. Early round contests and district
qualifying tournaments should follow the stepwise progression listed in part A.
2) School personnel have the responsibility of making alternative travel plans to final sites based upon adverse weather
forecasts and any other pertinent information. It shall be the responsibility of the participating school(s) to notify the
OSAA Executive Director or OSAA staff designee if the school is having difficulty traveling to the final site and may not
arrive in time for the scheduled event(s) due to adverse weather conditions or a clear area-wide emergency.
C. Championship Final Site Specifics
1) If a team/individual is unable to arrive at a final site for their scheduled competition due to adverse weather conditions
or a clear area-wide emergency, that team/individual will be allowed to participate in their scheduled event provided
they arrive at the site and are able to compete on the day of their scheduled event. In this situation the OSAA Executive
Director or OSAA staff designee, shall adjust the schedule of the event for the purpose of allowing maximum participation
for all qualified schools when these conditions are present. If the team/individual is unable to arrive to compete on the
day of their event, and NFHS playing rules allow the modification, a forfeit is recorded and that team/individual shall
move into the consolation bracket or be dropped from competition, whichever is applicable to the event.
2) When the number of teams/individuals unable to reach the final site for their scheduled event due to adverse weather
conditions or a clear area-wide emergency exceeds 25% of those participating, the OSAA Executive Director or OSAA staff
designee, shall consider postponement or cancellation of all or part of the event. An alternative schedule shall be
determined by OSAA Executive Director or OSAA staff designee. Should the need arise for the schedule of a final site to
be altered the next available date, including Sunday, will be used.
3) For the purpose of this policy, the TOTAL number of teams/individuals scheduled to attend the final site for that
classification shall be the number used from which to obtain the percentage of those needed, regardless of the total
number of classifications scheduled to attend the event.
4) Note: For the purpose of this policy, when the percentage used results in a number that is not a whole number, the
number shall be rounded up to the next whole number. For example, if a tournament is being held for 30 teams, 25% of
the total would be 7.5 which would be rounded up to 8.
D. Procedures to Follow If Contests at The Final Site Are Rescheduled
1) The OSAA Executive Director or OSAA staff designee has the final authority on final site contest rescheduling.
2) If contests are rescheduled on the same day as originally scheduled but at a different site, the semifinal and championship
contests will be scheduled at the same time or later than originally scheduled.
3) Time between contests may be shortened. Example: If contests were originally scheduled at two-hour intervals, they
may be rescheduled at one and one half-hour intervals.
4) Individuals/teams shall be granted a minimum of 20 minutes for rest between contests.
5) Whenever possible, contests played on the final day of the tournament shall be scheduled to allow individuals/teams to
return to their home community that day.
6) If during the last scheduled day at the final site, contests are unable to be restarted requiring postponement overnight,
only those individuals/teams still in contention for the championship will continue play. Individuals/teams not in
contention for the championship shall be awarded a tie for the highest placing that could have been earned if
postponement had not been necessary.
E. Ticket revenue might not be refunded in the event the schedule and/or day(s) of the event are changed due to adverse
weather conditions or a clear area-wide emergency.
10. MORATORIUM WEEK (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Revised May 2014)
A. Each year a seven-day OSAA Moratorium Week shall be in effect during which there shall be no contact between
administrators/coaches/directors/advisors and students involved in any OSAA-sanctioned sport or activity, including cheer,
dance/drill, speech, solo music, choir, band/orchestra. In addition, there shall be no high school athletic facility usage by
athletic staff and students/teams, including dance/drill and cheer, during the OSAA Moratorium Week. Use of non-athletic
facilities by athletic staff is allowed.
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 20 of 24
B. Week 4 of the NFHS Standardized Calendar shall be designated as Moratorium Week. Designated OSAA Moratorium Week
dates:
2023 July 23 – July 29
2024 July 28 – August 3
2025 July 27 – August 2
2026 July 26 – August 1
2027 July 25 – July 31
2028 July 23 – July 29
1. Q. During the Moratorium Week, will coaches be allowed any contact with their athletes?
A. No.
2. Q. During the Moratorium Week, will schools be allowed to have open facilities?
A. Schools may only host an activity that includes high school students involved in athletics and activities if they have
appealed for and been granted permission from the Executive Director prior to the Moratorium Week. Permission shall
not be granted for team camps.
3. Q. During the Moratorium Week, will coaches be allowed to have conditioning with their athletes, including working out in
the weight room?
A. No, no contact is allowed.
4. Q. During the Moratorium Week, may students attend camps, clinics, etc.?
A. Yes, so long as no high school administrators/coaches/directors/advisors are present, and participation is not organized
or paid for by the school.
5. Q. Are there any exceptions to this policy?
A. Yes. There will be an appeals process in place for teams, coached by a high school coach, that have been playing together
all summer and have qualified for a post-season event that is taking place during all or part of the Moratorium Week.
Approval must be granted by the Executive Director prior to the Moratorium Week.
6. Q. What is the penalty for a Moratorium Week violation?
A. The violation penalty will be similar to that assessed for a Rule of Two violation. The standard penalty is a $500 fine and
game suspension for the offending coach.
7. Q. May coaches work with non-high school students during the Moratorium Week?
A. Yes, but not at a high school venue.
8. Q. May coaches encourage their athletes to work out at another facility during the Moratorium Week?
A. No. The intent of the policy is that coaches and students take a week off.
9. Q. May a school schedule their athletic physical night, or a similar event, during the Moratorium Week?
A. No, the school may schedule nothing that is related to OSAA activities.
10. Q. May coaches/student make contact through phone, email, etc., during Moratorium Week?
A. Yes, but with restrictions. For example, the coach may not ask the student, “What is your workout today?”.
11. Q. May a high school coach work with another high school’s students during the Moratorium Week?
A. No. Contact is not allowed by high school coaches with any high school students during the Moratorium Week.
12. Q. May a coach work in any capacity (coaching or not coaching) at a camp during the Moratorium Week?
A. Yes, but only if there are no high school students at the camp and not at a high school venue.
13. Q. May an outside entity hold an event during Moratorium Week (e.g. youth soccer camp, little league baseball tournament)
that utilizes high school athletic facilities?
A. Yes, provided that no high school students and no members of the high school athletic staff are involved in any capacity
(scheduling, supervising, instructing, etc.) with the event.
14. Q. May athletic staff members work in school offices or classrooms during the Moratorium Week, even if they may have
contact with students?
A. Yes, provided that the contact with students is limited to non-athletic pursuits such as schedule changes, registration,
etc.
15. Q. At what point does the OSAA consider a person to be a school’s coach?
A. Once a person and a school have verbally agreed that the person will perform coaching duties for the school, they are
considered to be that school’s coach by the OSAA. At that time, all OSAA policies are in effect for that coach until such
time that the coach resigns or is notified by the school that they are no longer a coach for that school.
16. Q. May a returning coach work with students outside their designated sports season since the coach is working under a one-
year contract and has not signed a contract for the coming year?
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 21 of 24
A. No. Once a person becomes a school’s coach, the OSAA considers that person to be a coach for the school until such
time that the coach resigns or is notified by the school that they are no longer a coach for that school. Coaches who
resign and are then brought back in a coaching capacity by the same school in an attempt to circumvent OSAA policy are
subject to penalties as outlined in Rule 5, “Violations of Regulations - Penalties.”
11. NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY (Complaint Form) (Revised July 2019)
A. The Oregon School Activities Association does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation,
national origin, marital status, age, or disability in the performance of its authorized functions, and encourages its member
schools, school personnel, participants, and spectators to adopt and follow the same policy.
B. A claim of discrimination against a member school shall be brought directly to the member school of concern.
C. Any party that believes they have been subjected to an incident involving discrimination or discriminatory harassment at
an OSAA sanctioned event, may submit a written complaint through the online complaint process proved on the OSAA
website. When the coaches, players students, staff or spectators of any members school engage in discriminatory
behaviors, or act in a manner disruptive to the school environment, or cause disorder or infliction of damage to persons
or property in connection with any festival, meet, contest or championship sanctioned by the Association, the Executive
Board may treat such acts as a violation by the school of the Rules of the Association. See Rule 3, “Contests –
Sportsmanship – Crowd Control” for additional information.
12. SHARED FACILITIES (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies) (Shared Facility Request) (Fall 2015)
Member schools are permitted to share practice and/or competition facilities with other teams with prior approval from the
OSAA. Schools requesting a shared facility are required to submit a “Shared Facility Request” for approval prior to the facility
being utilized by different groups at the same time. This policy prohibits practice or competition to or between groups approved
to share a facility. It is recommended that each team have their own coaching staff and that staggered practice times be utilized
when possible.
13. WITHDRAWAL DURING A COMPETITION (OSAA Handbook, Executive Board Policies)
A. Removal of a team from a competition prior to completion of that competition shall be considered a gross act of
unsportsmanlike conduct.
B. In such a case, the school shall forfeit the contest and an administrator and the coach responsible for the action shall appear
before the Executive Board at its next regularly scheduled meeting. See Executive Board Policies, “Withdrawal from State
Championships” for additional information.
Rule 3 – Contests – Sportsmanship – Crowd Control (OSAA Handbook, Rules)
3.1. The arrangement of all festivals, meets, contests or championships is the responsibility of the superintendent, assistant
superintendent or high school principal, subject to the Regulations of the Association.
3.2. When a festival, meet, contest or championship is in progress, the National Federation of State High School
Associations (NFHS) rules governing such activities shall apply, except for specific deviations as approved by the
Executive Board.
3.3. Sportsmanship Responsibility. The high school administration, coach and other responsible officials of each member
school shall take all reasonable measures to ensure that the school's coaches, players, students, and spectators
maintain a sportsmanlike attitude at all events so that events may be conducted without unreasonable danger or
disorder. All cheers, comments and actions shall be in direct support of one’s team. Discriminatory harassment and
bullying behavior will not be tolerated. Discrimination is defined as (OAR 581-021-0045(1)(a) “any act that
unreasonably differentiates treatment, intended or unintended, or any act that is fair in form but discriminatory in
operation, either of which is based on age, disability, national origin, race, color, marital status, religion, sex, and
sexual orientation.” Harassing conduct may take many forms, including verbal acts and name-calling; graphic and
written statements, which include use of cell phones or the Internet; or other conduct that may be physically
threatening, harmful, or humiliating. Examples include but are not limited to hazing, intimidation, taunting, bullying,
cyberbullying or menacing another, or engaging in behavior deemed by the member school to endanger the safety
or well-being of students, employees, self or others. Harassment does not have to include intent to harm, be directed
at a specific target, or involve repeated incidents. Harassment creates a hostile environment when the conduct is
sufficiently severe, pervasive, or persistent, so as to interfere with or limit the ability to participate in or benefit from
the services, activities, or opportunities offered by a school. This includes the use of, or engagement in, abusive verbal
expression or physical conduct, especially if that conduct interferes with the performance of students, staff, event
officials or sponsors of interscholastic activities.
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 22 of 24
3.4. Spectator Conduct. The following expectations regarding spectator conduct at all OSAA sanctioned events, including
regular and post season competition, are provided. Those violating or threatening to violate the following Association
rules or site management spectator conduct expectations, may be ejected from the premises, issued a trespass
citation, excluded from sanctioned activities temporarily or permanently and/or referred to law enforcement officials.
3.4.1. All cheers, comments and actions shall be in direct support of one’s team. No cheers, comments or actions
shall be directed at one’s opponent or at contest officials. Some examples of unacceptable conduct include
but are not limited to disrespecting players by name, number or position; negative cheers or chants; throwing
objects on the playing surface; use of derogatory or racially explicit language; discriminatory harassment or
conduct that creates a hostile environment that is disruptive to the educational environment.
3.4.2. Spectators shall not be permitted to use vulgar/offensive or racially/culturally insensitive language or engage
in any racially/culturally insensitive action.
3.5. Complaint Process. The OSAA will sanction schools whom it has found negligent in the duties of reasonably protecting
those involved in interscholastic activities from derogatory or inappropriate names, insults, verbal assaults, profanity,
ridicule or engaging in behavior deemed by the member school to endanger the safety or well-being of students,
employees, self or others.
3.5.1. OSAA will acknowledge receipt of the complaint within 48 hours.
3.5.2. OSAA may prioritize the investigation of complaints based on information received.
3.5.3. Complaints deemed to be employee or student discipline matters only shall be returned to the complainant.
Matters of employment and/or employee discipline which can best be resolved through the school district’s
complaint process include but are not limited to playing time, team level assignments (Varsity/JV), assignment
of a student to a specific coach, equipment use, or dissatisfaction with a contract or payment term. Matters
of student discipline which can best be resolved through the school district’s complaint process include but
are not limited to academic eligibility, drug/alcohol use, playing time or playing position, specific workout
requirements, or dissatisfaction with a calendar, schedule or event location.
3.5.4. Complaints must include the complainant’s name and contact information (phone and email or mailing
address). Anonymous complaints shall not be considered.
3.5.5. Every effort will be made to complete the investigation process within 30 days; however, should the
investigation require more time, a 30-day status update shall be provided.
3.5.6. To assist in investigation of the complaint, complainants are asked to note the following:
(a) Complaints are only accepted on the official online form and each section of the Complaint Form must
be completed. (Complaint Form)
(b) Complaints which are determined to be outside the scope of the OSAA will be returned to the
complainant via the contact address provided. See Rules, Rule 3.5.3. for guidance.
(c) Whenever possible, provide first-hand accounts, with names and contact information of witnesses.
3.6. Sportsmanship Violations/Penalties. When the coaches, players, students, staff or spectators of any member school
engage in unsportsmanlike conduct, discriminatory harassing behaviors, act in a manner disruptive to the school
environment, or cause disorder or infliction of damage to persons or property in connection with any festival, meet,
contest or championship sponsored by this Association, the Executive Board may treat such acts as a violation by the
school of the Rules of the Association and the school shall be subject to penalty. Penalties may vary depending on the
actions taken by the school and/or school district during and after the event as it relates to trespassing spectators
involved, removing players/coaches from the team for a period of time, requiring additional education/training, etc.
Upon a ruling by the Executive Director or by the Executive Board the member school may be subject to probation,
mandatory appearance before the Executive Board, required plan of action, forfeitures, fines, lack of institutional
control penalties, suspension of membership or expulsion from the Association as determined by the Executive Board.
The Executive Director or the Executive Board may determine that no penalties are necessary when an incident has
been handled appropriately and in a timely fashion by the school and/or district.
1. Q. Is the host school exclusively responsible for crowd control?
A. No. While the host school for any activity must assume a primary responsibility for the physical management of the
activity, including providing for crowd control, this is a mutual responsibility. The visiting school also must take such
measures as are necessary to ensure proper behavior on the part of its own students and fans.
2. Q. May home team schools display signs and/or banners at their home venues?
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 23 of 24
A. Yes, home team schools may display “permanent” signs and/or banners that are positive / supportive at their home
venues. Examples are welcome signs, in-season rosters, league banners, league / state championship banners and
sportsmanship banners.
3. Q. Are “run through” signs allowed?
A. Yes, so long as the message is positive/supportive.
4. Q. May visiting schools bring signs and/or banners to hang at the host school’s venue?
A. No.
5. Q. May spectators have signs at events?
A. Spectators are not permitted to have signs or banners larger than 8-1/2 x 11 inches. “Fathead” type items are considered
signs and shall not be larger than 8-1/2 x 11 inches. Spectators are required to wear shirts.
6. Q. May a spectator have an artificial noisemaker?
A. No, spectators are not permitted to have artificial noisemakers. Some examples of artificial noisemakers are Thunder
Stix, cowbells, clappers and air horns.
7. Q. May a school use an artificial noisemaker at specific times during athletic events?
A. In limited cases, yes. An example of an allowable use of artificial noisemakers by a school would be the firing of a cannon
or the ringing of a bell after a touchdown is scored.
8. Q. May spectators use small, handheld megaphones?
A. Yes, provided they are not electric. Only cheerleaders are allowed to use large megaphones. Neither cheerleaders nor
spectators may use megaphones for banging on the floor or bleachers.
9. Q. What are some examples of cheers that do not encourage a positive atmosphere?
A. Any yell that is intended to antagonize an opponent detracts from a positive atmosphere. “Air Ball! Air Ball!” booing,
“You! You! You!”, or “You Got Swatted!” are examples of yells that will not encourage a positive atmosphere.
Conversely, a positive atmosphere is created when fans focus on positive yells in support of their team, rather than on
negative yells attacking their team’s opponents. Spectators shall not turn their heads or hold up newspapers during
team introductions, or jeer at cheerleaders during opposing team introductions.
10. Q. May students stand on the bottom row of the bleachers?
A. Yes, but when they sit down, they must be seated on the second row.
11. Q. May students cheer during serves in volleyball and free throws in basketball?
A. Yes, so long as they are just “making noise” and not specifically addressing a contest official or an individual player from
the opposing team.
12. Q. May a school use balloons at an athletic event?
A. Yes, a host school may use balloons for decoration. However, fans may not have balloons, and balloons may not be
placed by the school in any manner that would block spectator viewing.
13. Q. May a school use balloons at a state championship final site?
A. No.
14. Q. May spectators have oversized foam fingers at athletic events?
A. Yes, they are allowed so long as they are not blocking spectator viewing.
Rule 7 – Out-of-Season and Non-School Activities (OSAA Handbook, Rules)
7.1. Out-of-season festivals, meets, contests or championships shall not be permitted during the school year involving
member schools of this Association unless special authorization is given by the Executive Board.
7.2. A member school or official representative of a member school shall not participate, either directly or indirectly, in
the promotion, management, supervision, player selection, coaching or officiating of an all-star contest involving high
school students during the Association year.
7.3. No member school or official representative of a member school shall condition participation in high school athletics
or activities on participation in non-school athletic or activity events or workouts, including, but not limited to camps,
leagues, and any form of organized out-of-season or summer competition. Further, no member school may give
consideration to such participation when determining membership on, or participation in, high school athletics or
activities.
1. Q. May a coach require participation on a non-school team including summer teams or use participation on a non-school
team as a factor in selecting members of a school team or allowing full participation in team activities?
G:\Publications\PLANBOOK\SPRING\2024\tfplan.docx Page 24 of 24
A. No to both questions. Participation on a non-school team is a personal choice of the student and their parents and may
not be required or even considered when selecting school team members or allowing full participation in team activities.
2. Q. May a coach require participation in out-of-season or summer workouts as a factor in selecting members of a school
team or allowing full participation in team activities?
A. No.
