Message to RODS Officials
Swim meets are an essential part of the sport of swimming, allowing athletes to test their skill and reach their swimming goals! Unfortunately, the RODS have not been able to host any swim meets this year. In a regular season, you would receive volunteer points for working shifts at a swim meet. This year, we would like to encourage you to get certified as an official by offering volunteer points for taking courses.
Swimming officials implement the technical and administrative rules of swimming and ensure the competition is fair for all athletes. Officials’ positions are filled by volunteers including parents, family members, and individuals dedicated to the sport of swimming. To qualify as a swim official, individuals attend clinics, receive on-deck training, and are certified by Swim Saskatchewan.
Officiating at meets relies heavily on parents participating as officials. In fact, a swim meet will not run without the assistance of certified parents. Many parents complete the Level 1 Introduction to Officiating Clinic and the Stroke and Turn Clinic and spend their time on deck as Timers, Head Lane Timers, Stroke Judges or Turn Judges. However, all volunteers are encouraged to move beyond these entry-level positions. Being certified beyond these positions will add variety to the volunteer experience and help fill an ever-present need to develop deck officials.