Starter Rotation
USA Swimming Deck Referee & Starter Guidelines
STARTER
1. Takes deck position which affords an optimal view of the starting field.
2. Assists in checking field for correct number of swimmers in proper lanes.
3. Raises microphone upon hearing the long whistle and awaits referee’s outstretched arm.
4. When the starting field is ready, says “TAKE YOUR MARK: in a calm, conversational tone.
5. Completes the start after all swimmers have assumed a stationary position.
6. Notes all empty lanes and time of start on starter’s heat sheet
7. Takes across the board finishes (order of finish) on starter’s heat sheet.
DECK REFEREE
1. Signals “prepare to swim” with a series (4 or more) of short whistles.
2. Checks starting field for correct number of swimmers in proper lanes.
3. Sounds long whistle indicating swimmers should take a position on the blocks, deck or in the pool. A second long whistle on backstroke starts indicating swimmers should take their starting positions.
4. Closes field and turns control over to the starter with an outstretched arm
5. Carefully observes the start noting the lane(s) who were not stationary on the referee’s heat sheet and then focuses attention on the athletes swimming.
FALSE START PROCEDURES
1. IF the starter observes that a swimmer was not stationary a the starting signal, the race shall continue without recall and the lane of the offending athlete circled on the starter’s heat sheet.
2. The deck referee should also not if a swimmer was not stationary.
3. When there is agreement on the noted lanes the referee will write up the disqualification and both will sign it.
REMEMBER NEVER:
1. Force a start before the swimmers are ready.
2. Keep athletes on the blocks or in the water for an extended time period prior to the start.
ALWAYS:
1. Practice PATIENCE, PATIENCE, AND PATIENCE!
2. Use the word please when giving a command.
3. Be alert for referee requests.
4. Recall a heat if necessary.
5. Be conscious of any outside interference that might affect the start.
6. Check starting blocks and operation & volume of starting equipment.
7. Be ready to step in for any official when requested.
