SDHSAA Sets Qualifying Standards for May State Track Meet in Sioux Falls

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Day.News) — The South Dakota High School Activities Association announced qualifying procedures for the Class AA state track and field meet, scheduled for May 28-30 at Howard Wood Field in Sioux Falls. Unlike Classes A and B, which rely on region qualifiers, Class AA athletes must post automatic or provisional standards during the regular season at sanctioned outdoor meets on 400-meter tracks. Automatic standards are calculated from the average sixth-place performances over the past six state meets, while provisional marks stand at 1.05 times the automatic for running events and 0.95 for field events, as outlined in SDHSAA guidelines.

Up to 24 competitors per individual event will advance, with a maximum of three per team, plus all schools qualifying one relay team based on season-best times. If fewer than 16 meet the provisional standard, the field expands to the next best verified performances from in-season meets overseen by an SDHSAA-licensed referee and head starter. Ties for the final spot advance, ensuring fairness in the push toward the championships.

For context, Rapid City-area schools like Stevens High and Central High have historically dominated Class AA, with athletes chasing marks like those for the 100-meter dash or shot put honed at local venues such as Sioux Falls' statewide-sanctioned meets. Coaches must enter rosters via the SDHSAA online system by noon CT the Friday before the meet, with one week post-sanctioned event to submit qualifying results. The structure rewards consistent performance amid South Dakota's vast rural and urban divides, from Black Hills invites to eastern circuit clashes.