Differences Between AAU and USATF Track & Field
1. Age Categories
Both organizations have age divisions, but they are structured differently.
| Age Group | AAU Track & Field | USATF Track & Field |
|---|---|---|
| 8 & Under | 8 & Under (Born 2016 & later) | 8 & Under (Born 2016 & later) |
| 9-10 | 9 Years (Born 2015) 10 Years (Born 2014) | 9-10 Years (Born 2014-2015) |
| 11-12 | 11 Years (Born 2013) 12 Years (Born 2012) | 11-12 Years (Born 2012-2013) |
| 13-14 | 13 Years (Born 2011) 14 Years (Born 2010) | 13-14 Years (Born 2010-2011) |
| 15-16 | 15-16 Years (Born 2008-2009) | 15-16 Years (Born 2008-2009) |
| 17-18 | 17-18 Years (Born 2006-2007) | 17-18 Years (Born 2006-2007) |
2. Events Offered
Both organizations offer similar events, but some differences exist.
| Event Type | AAU Junior Olympics | USATF Junior Olympics |
|---|---|---|
| Sprints | 100m, 200m, 400m | 100m, 200m, 400m |
| Middle Distance | 800m, 1500m | 800m, 1500m |
| Long Distance | 3000m (11+ age group) | 3000m (11+ age group) |
| Relays | 4x100m, 4x400m, 4x800m, 4x200m | 4x100m, 4x400m, 4x800m, Sprint Medley |
3. Qualification for Junior Olympics
The qualification process differs between AAU and USATF.
| Stage | AAU Junior Olympics Qualification | USATF Junior Olympics Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Round | District Qualifier (Top 16 advance) | Association Meet (Top 8 advance) |
| 2nd Round | Regional Qualifier (Top 6 advance) | Regional Meet (Top 5 advance) |
| 3rd Round | Top 6 from each region advance | Top 5 from each region advance |
Summary of Main Differences
- AAU uses single-year divisions for ages 9-14, while USATF uses two-year combined divisions.
- AAU advances more athletes to the Junior Olympics compared to USATF.
How to Register for USATF and AAU Track Meets
Registering Through a Track Club
- Join the Club: Contact the club coach or administrator to sign up and provide necessary documents.
- Obtain a Membership:
- USATF Membership - The club will guide your registration.
- AAU Membership - The club will provide an AAU Club Code.
- Meet Entry: The club will handle meet registration through platforms like Athletic.net or DirectAthletics.
- Confirm Registration: Check with your club to verify your entry and receive your bib number.
Registering Unattached (Without a Track Club)
- Get a Membership:
- USATF Membership - Register as an unattached athlete.
- AAU Membership - Select "unattached" when registering.
- Find a Meet: Check event listings on USATF.org, and CoachO.for AAU meets
- Register for the Meet: Some meets allow unattached athletes to register directly via Athletic.net or CoachORegistration.com.
- Pay the Entry Fee: Each meet has an entry fee, which varies by event.
- Receive Confirmation: Ensure you get a confirmation email with event details and bib pickup instructions.
By following these steps, athletes can successfully register and compete in USATF or AAU track meets with or without a club affiliation.