The American Swimming Coaches Association and Proposed Legislation Amendment
The American Swimming Coaches Association (ASCA) has officially endorsed a proposed legislation amendment to Rule 102.10.2 of the USA Swimming Rule Book. This amendment is aimed at establishing consistent standards for officials across the country. By doing so, it ensures that the current standards set by USA Swimming, in accordance with recommendations from the National Officials Committee, become the national standard.
The rule specifies that officials for USA Swimming championship meets will be assigned by the National Officials Chair, with the approval of the Program & Events Coordinator or their designee. It further outlines the specific officials that are required and assigned for all USA Swimming championships and team selection trials competitions. These officials include a Referee, Starter, Administrative Referee, Chief Timer, Place Judge (where overhead video cameras are not used), Chief Judge, Stroke Judge per each side of the pool, Timer/Relay Take-off Judge per lane (start end), Head Lane Timer per lane (start end), Timer/Turn Judge per lane (start end), Turn Judge per lane (turn end), Relay Take-off Judges (two each side of the pool), Recall Rope Operator, and Marshals (minimum of four).
In addition to the officials listed above, the proposed amendment allows for the assignment of assistant referees, assistant chief judges, one additional stroke judge per each side of the pool, and relief personnel. In cases where there may be a shortage of officials, the Referee has the authority to modify or combine assignments, as long as it complies with the provisions of 102.10.3. Furthermore, if overhead video cameras are used, the Referee may make further modifications as appropriate.
ASCA’s endorsement of the proposed amendment stems from its commitment to the development and sustainability of clubs, as well as the growth of swimming in the United States. The association recognizes the challenges faced by coaches and clubs in recruiting, retaining, and advancing officials within their Local Swimming Committees (LSCs). By advocating for these changes to the rule, ASCA aims to create a pathway for programs to attract more volunteers, enabling clubs to host non-championship, sanctioned meets at the LSC level. ASCA acknowledges and appreciates the important role played by officials in the sport and supports the efforts of the National Officials Committee to establish a standard.
According to ASCA CEO Jennifer LaMont, the proposed rule change will provide a uniform, clearly defined, and more attainable advancement process. The hope is that more parents will come forward and participate as a result, ultimately benefiting coaches, clubs, and most importantly, athletes. The proposed legislation will be voted on at the USA Swimming House of Delegates meeting in September, and if passed, it will become effective on January 1, 2024.
To garner grassroots support for the legislation rule change leading up to the HOD meeting, a petition has been created. ASCA encourages individuals to sign this petition to demonstrate their support. Additionally, ASCA stands alongside the Coaches Advisory Council (CAC) to rally all voting members of the USA Swimming House of Delegates to vote in favor of the proposed legislation. The association remains dedicated to the education and development of swimming coaches at all levels, providing valuable resources, certifications, and networking opportunities to inspire, support, and advocate for coaches in their pursuit of excellence and the advancement of the sport.
