NACAC Starter Development Program

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NACAC Starter Development Program

As NACAC launches a new Starter Development Program, our goal is to provide Member Federations with a clear, consistent, and regionally supported pathway that prepares new and emerging starters for advancement in-country, within NACAC and beyond to World Athletics (WA).

To ensure fairness, quality, and alignment across all countries in our area, NACAC will be implementing a unified development structure for starter education and certification. Countries with established officials’ development programs are excluded from certification Level I, Level II and Level III.

This approach ensures:

All candidates receive the same level of preparation and support.
Member Federations benefit from structured training rather than navigating a system independently.
WA receives candidates who have been trained, assessed, and verified according to common regional standards.
Only well-prepared and consistently evaluated starters progress to WA starter opportunities, strengthening the reputation of the region.

NACAC is committed to supporting Federations through this process and ensuring that all developing starters have access to high-quality training and mentorship. Pursuing this pathway, creates a stronger, more coordinated system that benefits our officials, our Member Federations, and the sport as a whole.

NACAC Starter Development Program — Quick Facts

What it is: A new regional certification pathway for Starters in the NACAC Area
Who it’s for: New, developing, and experienced Starters
Purpose: To provide structured education, mentorship, assessment, and certification
Entry: Required application and member federation endorsement
Delivery: Phased rollout with limited intakes
Outcome: NACAC Starter Certification at the appropriate level