In December 2022, FINA adopted a new constitution, including significant restructuring of the organization and rebranding to World Aquatics. Prior to this reform, Rules could be changed every four years at a Technical Congress. Under the new structure, the Technical Committees can forward rules change proposals directly to the World Aquatics Bureau on a more regular basis for review and potential adoption. The World Aquatics Bureau is now charged with the ultimate responsibility over the World Aquatics rules in all of the sports. The significance is that now rules changes can be enacted anytime the Bureau meets. This will result in a more nimble, progressive and forward-thinking organization.

One challenge that rulemaking bodies have is that whenever even one word is changed in a rule, some users of that rule feel that it implies a change in meaning or interpretation. In some instances, that is not the case. It’s very important that new interpretations don’t creep in. Because USA Swimming follows World Aquatics rules, whenever changes are made, we will immediately follow suit. Please be mindful of explanations and discussion provided by the USA Swimming Rules Committee and the Officials Committee.
 
USA Swimming has done an excellent job interpreting if the athlete started before the starting signal was given. Although the word “initiating” has been added, nothing should be changed in the way we are interpreting what constitutes a False Start. World Aquatics added that word to emphasize that things like adjusting a suit or cap, twitches that are reset, or readjusting foot placement prior to starting do not constitute a false start.

The most significant stroke change is in breaststroke, where the requirement for the arms and legs to move simultaneously remains but the requirement to be in the same horizontal plane no longer exists.
 
The change for the backstroke ledge is that once they are installed, they should be set to zero, which is the level surface of the water. Any changes beyond that should be made by the athlete. It was also clarified that a toe from each foot must be in contact with the touchpad.
 
In both the Individual Medley and Medley Relay, the requirement to be past vertical towards the breast during the freestyle prior to any stroke or kick is now a rule rather than an interpretation. Again, no change to how we officiate.
 
Now it is specifically permitted to use technology to collect data. The data may be stored on the device or transmitted to the coach or team in real time. Devices may not be utilized to electronically transmit back to the swimmer in real time if it provides aural, visual or haptic feedback during the race. However, coaches may receive data and then provide standard coaching to the athlete.
 
The whistle protocol is changing, mostly impacting finals. Rather than blowing the short whistles while the swimmers are parading, this is done once introductions are complete and the athletes have removed all clothing except for swimsuits. It’s a way to alert the athletes to prepare for the signal to get on the starting blocks or enter the water in backstroke

Contact your Officials Committee Co-Chairs at scs.officials@socalswim.org if you did not receive this months newsletter