Officiating
Swim meets are an essential part of the sport of swimming allowing athletes to test their skill and reach their swimming goals!
Swimming officials implement the technical and administrative rules of swimming and ensure the competition is fair for all athletes.
In Ontario, 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 Ontario. The first level of officiating trains you to be a timer on deck operating a stop watch to time races.
Officiating for PTBO Swim Club
PTBO Swim Club, like all swim clubs in Canada, relies heavily on parents participating as officials . Most parents complete the Timer and Safety Marshall 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 officials’ positions. It will add a little variety to the volunteer experience and help fill an ever-present need to develop deck officials.
How to Become a Swim Official
In order to be on deck to officiate at swim meets, Swim Ontario requires that all parents/volunteers are registered. At the start of the season, you should contact the Club's Officials' Administrator officials@ptboswimclub.com