A call for those willing to become an official

It takes a number of officials to be able to host any gala or even the simplest of time trials. These events are essential for swimmers to monitor their progress and to gain experience of competition. Recently, a number of parents have asked that we hold such events on a regular basis - we are really keen to do this but NEED officials.
Many of our current officials are parents of senior swimmers, some of whom have now left the club and it is unfair to continue to ask them to give up their time if the trials are primarily aimed at children in younger squads.
May I urge you to consider becoming a “Judge level 1” ( time-keeper and inspector of turns) . Even if you will only consider time-keeping, I will contact the ASA East region to ask about a course.
There is NO ongoing commitment of a set number of sessions when trained. I have handed out a number of forms and would appreciate a reply promptly, in order that I do not hold up those who have confirmed their interest.

If you have questions, please contact me,
Jill Briars ( parent of swimmers in Bury Skills 2, T2T and T2C squads) The club will forward any emails.

Changes to Officials Qualifications

The method of education and training of swimming officials is about to change, the February 2007 edition of WAVELENGTH contains useful clarification of these changes. Any currently registered official or anybody thinking about becoming a swimming official may wish to read this informative newsletter.

Officials - those strange people in white who wander around the pool at galas - without them our swimmers cannot compete. Even the smallest of galas needs 18 officials to allow it to run, and often more are needed if the gala is going to run quickly. All clubs struggle to find enough officials for their galas, so why not consider joining them.

Timekeepers (the entry level qualification) are needed to record swimmers performance
Judges are there to ensure that swimmers conform to the rules of swimming
Starter, to get the race ....started
Referee (the highest qualification) to ensure the gala runs to ASA Laws
As well as Clerk of the Course, Recorder, etc.

Suffolk County ASA organise a series of courses each Autumn to allow parents to become officials. These are tutored by Dave Robinson and lead to a theory exam and later a practical exam.

Details of courses will be added to this page as they become available.

Useful Downloads
Judges Report Sheet (Feb 2008)