Research indicates that middle school students need a great amount of physical activity to remain alert, motivated and eager to learn. A study was conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Middle-Level Athletics Task Force to gather and evaluate information about athletic programs that are compatible with young adolescents' needs and characteristics and to create developmentally appropriate middle-level athletic programs. This guide, arising from the results of that study, provides resources for school districts and community-based athletic programs seeking to develop, evaluate, and/or revise athletic programs for young adolescents. The first section, "Characteristics of the Young Adolescent and Implications for Athletic Programs," presents selected characteristics of young adolescents and relates them to recommended athletic practices. Section 2, "Philosophy and Recommendations," presents the task force's philosophy and program goals. The final section, "Questions and Answers about Middle-Level Athletics," summarizes often-asked questions regarding athletic programs for the young adolescent. Appendices provide a wide variety of materials to support or clarify the need for developmentally appropriate athletic programs for young adolescents. (LL)