Flow of Athletes
Determine the safest, most efficient traffic and staging flow for the athletes. It is ideal to have registration as close to the transportation drop as possible. Keep athletes moving in the same direction and avoid any back tracking. Direct athletes immediately to the practice area for warm up.
To avoid confusion, set up an overall schedule of the competition. Diagrams and maps are also helpful. Make sure coaches receive copies of maps and diagrams prior to the competition or at registration.
Upon arrival, participating coaches should immediately familiarize themselves with the competition venue; and select a designated meeting area for thier athletes and volunteers to meet if separated. Divide athletes into two groups: Level 1 participants and Levels 2-5. Assign volunteer coaches or chaperones accordingly. When possible, all practice and warm ups should be done as a group before dispersing Level 2-5 athletes to appropriate competition staging. Confirm all on-course registration procedures with coaches and athletes.
It is important that a coach or volunteer greet the athletes when they come off the course and direct them to a central scoring area or practice area.
A good rule of thumb: Put yourself in the position of the athlete, coach, volunteer, official, spectator or family member when establishing your competition venues, schedules and event flow patterns.
