The United States Track Coaches Association is preparing a document listing 10 ways to gain support for college track and field programs -- or a "10-Lane Track to Victory" -- for distribution to coaches and the track and field community

The USTCA's list:

1. Internal Support -- It is paramount to develop a good relationship with and gain the full support of the athletics director, university president and the athletics department.

2. Mission Statement Accountability -- The program fits into the written and unwritten mission of the athletics department and school. What is the program competitively and noncompetitively accountable for?

3. Support Base -- Constantly develop a strong external support base (fans, donors, alumnus and parents) for the program. This includes important individuals who care if the program succeeds and survives.

4. Home Competitions -- Develop a strong home-meets philosophy. It is difficult to be seen, develop fans, get media attention or justify the need for expensive facilities without significant kinds and numbers of home meets.

5. Upgrade Facilities -- Constantly build, upgrade, improve and take full advantage of current facilities.

6. Financial Support -- Strive to be more financially self-supportive. Find ways to gain significant amounts of revenue, sponsors and donations.

7. Media Support -- Develop strong relationships with the media to gain significant print, radio, Internet and television coverage.

8. Recruiting Constituency -- Recruit a team that mirrors the constituency of the school.

9. Visibility -- The program must be seen as an important feature of the school and community. Do not hide the program.

10. Dynamic Head Coach -- A dynamic head coach is not afraid to fight tactfully for the needs of the program. The coach must be able to effectively communicate the importance of the program. This is the key to getting the top nine accomplished.