How to Try Out for a Track Team

Knowing how to tryout for a track team can make the difference between becoming an athlete and watching from the sideline. As in each sport, you must try out before you are given a spot to compete. Track requires you to train even before the first tryout meeting; without training, you can become dehydrated and ultimately may not be asked to join the team. If you are a natural runner, joining a track team can help you obtain a college scholarship or a ticket to compete in the Olympics.

Things You'll Need

  • Water
  • Running shoes
  • Running shorts
  • Jersey
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Instructions

    • 1

      Jog and run for 2-3 months before the actual tryouts. Conditioning can help you show the coach you are dedicated to the team.

    • 2

      Show up at the initial tryout meeting. The first meeting is a question and answer session. The coach tells you what accessories, such as running shoes, shorts and a jersey, are needed for track. Also, the coach will give tryout, practice and competition schedules.

    • 3

      Show up to the first couple of tryouts, attempt all of the events, and decide on your specialty event. Choose to run the longest races, sprints or hurdles. If you are a long-distance runner, choose the mile or 800-meter event. If you are a sprinter, select the 200- or 400-meter races.

    • 4

      Outperform all others at the tryouts to receive a spot on the team. With the conditioning you completed before the tryouts, you will have a leg up on the competition. Show your coach you are not only the best but also the most committed.

    • 5

      Wait for the coach to make final decisions on who makes the team.