AboutRichard Howland Expertise I am a master USATF Track and Field official and can answer questions about officiating high school (NFHS), college (NCAA), National (USATF) and international in field events. I am not a coach except for other officials. My specialties are the Field events except pole vault.
Experience I delight in meeting athletes from all backgrounds and ages. I have even officiated field events for a one hundred year old long jumper as well as many "Master" and "Senior" athletes. Special olympics is a great event for officials to volunteer and see the essence of good sport on the faces of the athletes.
After thirty three years as a trial lawyer in Massachusetts with a focus on sports law, among others, I retired and devote much of my time to officiating. I referee soccer, time football, officiate swimming and diving, and officiate and start all events in track and field. My special focus in field events.
In high school and college I played soccer, squash and lacrosse, but track was not available in any depth then. Since I was a lawyer I began officiating and training to officiate sports which I could fit into my schedule. I honestly do not remember when I first started track and field officiating, but estimate that I have been very active for at least fifteen years.
I regularly officiate all events and levels.
Question Well I'm asking if there is a legal way to get more grip on the discus when throwing it. I have a young man that is getting ready for the Junior Olympics and he is struggling with his grip. What do they allow to put on your hands if anything?
Answer Dear Mr. Ells:
Junior Olympics is a program under the auspices of the USATF. The Rules of USATF with respect to the throwing events Rule 187 Section 3.(d) provides "In order to obtain a better grip, competitors may use a suitable substance on their hands only." Generally the substance applied or used is resin. This is often supplied by the meet sponsor, but do not count upon it.
Taping is strictly limited for situations of open wounds or injury, except for the wrist which may be taped. Do not assume anything, even resin, without checking with the officials in charge of the event. As with many sports today use of any aid which might supply an advantage is suspicious, so be sure by being careful.
The other element working in discus is the centrifugal force of the arm swing which is less available to some younger athletes.
