Introduction
The STC Youth Track Program is a fun, inclusive introduction to track and field designed for children in grades K–6 (for summer, rising 1st - 7th graders). Our goal is to help young athletes build confidence, learn fundamental skills, and experience the excitement of track and field in a positive, supportive environment.
Whether your child is brand new to the sport or already loves to run and jump, this program is built to meet them where they are.
Program Overview
The STC Youth Track Program runs over four weeks in June at the Solon High School stadium and includes:
Three weekly practice sessions (June 10, 13, 20)
One community track meet (June 27) - Participation in at least 1 practice required
Practices focus on progressive skill development, movement fundamentals, and teamwork, while the final meet brings everything together in a fun, high-energy celebration of effort and achievement.
Who It’s For
Children in grades K–6 (for summer, rising 1st - 7th grade)
All experience levels welcome
No prior track experience required
Participants are grouped by age to ensure instruction, competition, and expectations are developmentally appropriate. Full participation in practice is required to be able to compete in the Invitational track meet.
What Kids Will Learn
Athletes will be introduced to a variety of track and field events, including:
Sprinting (50m, 100m)
Middle-distance running (400m, 800m, 1 mile)
Field events (long jump, high jump, and shot put)
Instruction emphasizes:
Proper movement and technique
Safe participation with benchmarks for more advanced implements/events (shot put, high jump)
Confidence and effort over results
Respect for teammates and competitors
Practice Structure
Practices are organized into rotating stations led by coaches and trained volunteers. This format keeps kids engaged while allowing individualized attention and variety.
Each practice includes:
Dynamic warm-ups
Event-specific instruction with beginner, intermediate, and advanced benchmarks for safety
Games and drills that reinforce skills
Age-appropriate conditioning and movement
The Track Meet Experience
The program concludes with a community track meet“The Invitational” designed to be exciting, inclusive, and memorable.
Meet-day features include:
Individual track and field events
Mixed relay races with teams formed using practice seed times for balanced competition
Special events like the “Fastest Kid in Solon” challenge
A mascot race featuring local Solon elementary school mascots
Music, announcements, and a family-friendly atmosphere
All participants receive a t-shirt and participation medal, with additional recognition for event winners.
Safety & Supervision
Athlete safety is a top priority. The program is supported by:
Experienced coaches and background-screened volunteers
High school athlete volunteers
Certified officials for meet-day events
Clear supervision ratios
Age and ability-appropriate equipment and instruction
Community & Values
STC Youth Track Club is built on the values of:
Inclusion
Sportsmanship
Effort and personal growth
Community pride
The program operates with low overhead and strong volunteer support, allowing net proceeds to benefit local charities while keeping the experience accessible for families.
What’s Included
Three instructional practice sessions
Entry into the final track meet
Program t-shirt
Participation medal
Awards and recognition opportunities
A fun, positive introduction to track and field
Looking Ahead
The STC Youth Track Program is the foundation of a larger vision—one that includes future all-comers meets, road races, and expanded opportunities for athletes of all ages in Solon.
