NEW MEMBER INFORMATION
The 'ROO RATS (short for Kangaroo Rat) offer youth ages 8-18 years the opportunity to experience the team sports of Track & Field and Cross Country. Through the San Luis Distance Club and its volunteer coaches, this will be the 13th year and will begin in January through June or July for Track. For Cross Country, the season will begin mid-August through mid-December. We will be attending some local youth meets and three to four out of area larger meets. Racing distacnes will vary from 800m (half-mile) to 5000m (3.1 miles) depending upon the age group. The team will consist of athletes motivated to achieve optimal physical fitness and advance in their age group to the fullest extent of their ability.
Check the USATF link to find your childs age group: USATF AGE GROUPS
Team practice will be held at least twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4:30 pm during the Track season and 4:00 pm during Cross Country season. Practice will alternate between Cuesta Track, Cal-Poly Track and the Cuesta Fairbanks Cross Country course. In addition, there will be one to four (depending upon age) assigned practices for the week that the athlete will need to complete. Any additional training must be cleared with the Coach to help avoid over training. Each practice will develop skills from the previous practice; therefore, athletes are encouraged to attend every practice. A typical practice will consist of proper strengthening exercises, warm-up, main workout, cool-down and stretching routine. Efficient running form, hydration and nutrition will be stressed. There will be a first aid bag and cell phone available at all practices and meets.
There is an optional four week Track strengthening, conditioning, agility and quickness and running form analysis program offered in January that will meet two days per week (usually Tuesday and Thursday) at 4:00 pm. The Track Conditioning Program fee is $75.00 for new members and $35.00 for returning and prior SLDC members. The Program is limited to 20 participants.
Parental participation in the form of transportation to and from practice and competition meets will be necessary.
Children wishing to be a member of the team will need:
- Completed San Luis Distance Club Membership application(Membership fee included)
- Running shoes (no older than 6 months and definitely no high tops or cross-trainers)
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- An additional pair of distance racing spikes for competitions is encouraged.
- A pair of sweats, or warm jacket.
- Running shorts or tights and shirt (Jeans or long pants are not acceptable)
- Water bottle filled with water
- Large towel or beach towel for grass areas
- Team Uniform (included)
- Membership to USA Track & Field (affiliation to San Luis Distance Club #126 in the Pacific Association must be stated on USATF application)
There will be a season fee of $150.00 which includes a Team Uniform (singlet and shorts) and season SLDC Membership and monthly e−newsletter in which children's race results are published. Team snacks at competitions and an end of season Recognition Awards evening is also included. As a Youth Team member, free Team uniforms are provided as your child grows.
About Coaching: The San Luis Distance Club coaches are USA Track & Field background checked volunteers. They have extensive experience in their sport, physical conditioning, sports injuries and have worked with children in team sports and/or Special Olympics. Coach Barodte is the founder of the 'ROO RATS, ran in High School, College and Masters, and has many years working in the medical field. He has lived in Los Osos over 28 years, is Certified in Massage Therapy and is a Certified U.S.A. Track & Field Level 1 Coach.
Discounts on running shoes and gear available to Team and Club members at:
- VS Athletics 4035 South Higuera San Luis Obispo 781-3790
- Hind Sports Outlet 144 Hind Lane #110 San Luis Obispo 541-6019
- Running Warehouse 181 Suburban Road San Luis Obispo 540-7905
Please make checks payable to: S.L.D.C. - 'ROO RATS
Thank you for your interest. We look forward to working with your child and watching him/her grow and gain self-esteem and confidence in their athletic abilities.
