There's more structure and definition to a track race. You can't blend into a large pack, so no matter where you are, you feel exposed. Small errors in judgment become magnified. If you go out too fast, in no time at all you may sag badly. Try to use the less important events, such as dual meets, to develop your sense of pace and which tactics work best for you.
Many young athletes work on their kick prematurely.
You can't develop a kick before you have strength and endurance as a foundation. Build yourself up with appropriate mileage over time, then you'll be capable of handling the speed training to develop an effective kick.