As you know, the goal of officiating at swim meets is to ensure a fair, safe, and equitable competition for all swimmers. A team of swim officials works together to enforce the rules that govern the swim meet. When officials fulfill their duties, it ensures fair competition. 

Many officials’ roles fall on the “wet” side of swimming. For example, Stroke and Turn Judges, Starters, and Referees observe athletes and verify all rules are followed. These officials monitor what’s happening in the pool…the “wet” side. 

But Administrative Officials, or “AOs,” oversee the “dry” side of the meet. AOs handle the administrative aspects of a meet so it runs smoothly and adheres to all rules and guidelines. They handle much of the behind-the-scenes work that goes into entering athletes into the competition and verifying the times of each race to determine official results. 

The Administrative Official is ultimately responsible for determining and recording official times for athletes. So, while on the “dry” side, AOs interact with many officials on the “wet” side during the course of the meet. Those other officials help the AO ensure that swimmers get accurate times. For example, if a timing system malfunctions, it’s the backup times from timers and the Order of Finish from other officials that help determine a valid result.

One of the goals of an Administrative Official is to help facilitate an efficient meet. They coordinate many tasks and roles that impact the organization of the meet and work closely with the Meet Director and Meet Referee to ensure all gets done. AOs may not complete all tasks themselves but may supervise other personnel completing tasks under their purview. Let’s review some of the foundations of officiating before we move into the course. 

• Number 1 - everything officials do is grounded in the rules. This supports the goal of ensuring a fair competition for all swimmers. 

• Number 2 - officials are not coaches. You don’t provide instruction to swimmers. You are there to provide fair and impartial enforcement of the rules.

• Number 3 - officials need to be consistent observers. You should be consistent in how you apply the rules to all of your tasks. 

• Number 4 - be prepared. Your attention to all of the responsibilities involved shows you value the role you play on deck. 

• Number 5 - be professional. Your positive attitude sets the tone for the interactions you’ll have with coaches, swimmers, and other officials. Adhering to the dress code and considering your body language while on deck presents a professional image of the officiating team. 

• Number 6 - remember…you are part of a team! Cooperation and respect are primary to helping the meet run smoothly and efficiently. Perform your assignments to the best of your ability. 

• Finally, number 7 - in everything you do, the swimmer always gets the benefit of the doubt. This is the golden rule. The Administrative Official has an important role. Keep in mind your foundational concepts as you learn the skills needed for your AO certification.