Starter Clinic December 2006

1. Starter Clinic December 2006 Ron Zolno Referee rzolno@brsgroup.com Contact: Ron Zolno, Partner

2. The Rules • According to the rule book . . . • 102.14.2 where to stand • 102.14.3 optional instructions • 102.14.4 the start, especially 102.14.4C • 102.14.5 false starts • 102.14.6 warning signal on distance events December 2006 Starter Clinic

3. The Job • Key objective is to ensure a fair start for all competitors • Take deck position which affords an optimal view of the starting field • Raise microphone upon hearing long whistle and awaits deck referee’s outstretched arm (or later) • When the starting field is ready say “Take Your Mark” in a calm, conversational tone • Complete the start only after all swimmers have assumed an observable stationary position • Other responsibilities: • Assist in checking starting field for correct number of athletes in proper lanes • Note all empty lanes on starter’s record • Indicate start time of event (and maybe heat) • Take across the board finishes on starter’s record • Help record DQs • Ring the bell on distance events • Test the system (and check the speakers) if you are the first starter in a session December 2006 Starter Clinic

4. The Voice • Conversational tone • Flat or slight drop in pitch • “Open the door” • Don’t order them to swim, invite them to swim • Be pleasant, set the right tone • Wait until they are ready, but not too long • You are the starter -- not the referee and not the swimmers • Rush between heats; do NOT rush your starts • AVOID: • Sing-song • Rushing • Becoming a machine December 2006 Starter Clinic

5. The Stand Up • If the starter is not comfortable with what is occurring after the starting command, then say “stand” or “stand please” • Say it calmly • After standing them up, pause to let the swimmers get readjusted, then give the command “take your mark” • Remember that you can be ready a lot faster than the swimmers can be • IF NEED BE, tell swimmers to “step down” or “relax” • Let referee decide • Also let referee decide when a swimmer should be warned or disqualified for delay of meet December 2006 Starter Clinic

6. The Profession • You are the most visible official on deck, therefore, the way you look and act can make a big difference • Dress right • Be on time • Be in position • Stay focused • NEVER cheer for one swimmer or one team • Refer to swimmers as “ladies” and ‘gentlemen” • Because of your visibility you will frequently be asked a number of questions -- some you can answer, some should be referred to the Referee December 2006 Starter Clinic

7. Some Hints • Practice, practice, practice • Work on your voice • Develop your own mantra • Watch other starters -- both good and bad ones • Ask for feedback • Focus on the field, not one swimmer • Remember that regardless of level or capability, every swim is important to that swimmer December 2006 Starter Clinic

8. Next Steps • Attend a training session -- this is it • Read the rule book and take the starter’s test • This can be done online on the USA Swimming website; go to: http://www.usaswimming.org/USASWeb/DesktopDefault.aspx?TabId=690&Alias=Rainbow&Lang=en • Fill out the necessary paperwork and submit it with a check • Work your sessions as a starter trainee December 2006 Starter Clinic