CHANGES TO STARTING PROCEDURES

Date: 1/11/02

Article from the WASA website.

It has been a number of years since Fina introduced the one start rule.  WA Swimming has allowed a lengthy leniency period for younger swimmers to learn this rule.  However, the Board of WA Swimming has recently amended the Policies with regard to Starting procedures.

The following New Policy comes into effect as from 1 May 2003

• One start will be adopted for all WA Swimming meets conducted in the Metropolitan area from 01 May 2003.
• One or two starts at country meets shall be at the discretion of the Meet Organisers. Country coaches are to train their swimmers in starting techniques to allow progression to eventual adoption of the one start rule at Country meets.
• Clubs/swimmers/coaches are to be advised immediately this has occurred so that all members have had ample notice of application of the rule.

The Current Policy remains in force for the balance of this season, and covers all swim meets conducted until the end of April 2003.

The Current Policy states:
The one start rule will apply at the following meets:

• State Open Championships (All Open events only)
• State Age (13-18) Championships
• Winter Championships
• Distance Meet

The one start rule may apply at other meets at the discretion of the organising committee.  This section of the Policy is only current until 30 April 2003.

Clubs and coaches have been requested to ensure all swimmers have ample notice of the introduction of the above new “One Start” rule, and have been coached in its application.