Instructions for Swim Meet Marshals

Last updated on February 2nd, 2024 at 11:35 am

What is the top priority at swim meets? Keeping swimmers safe.  For this reason, meet hosts provide swim meet marshals to help enforce the rules. Since their job is to protect athletes and other meet goers, they work from before warm-ups through the end of the meet.  Often, meet hosts recruit swim parents to do this job. So, having clear, well-crafted instructions helps. Be sure to share them before the assignment begins. Doing so helps to boost the success of those doing the work.  The result? Increased safety for those participating in, or attending, your swim meet. Adapt to meet local needs.

Sharing Swim Meet Marshal Instructions via QR Code

By displaying this code on a device or paper, others can scan it and come directly to this post. If displayed high and large, it can be scanned by many from a reasonable distance. This allows people to read along during training. Thus, increasing retention and performance. If they bookmark the page, they can also refer to it later if needed.

Scanning this QR code quickly brings a device to this post

What is a QR Code?

A QR Code (quick response code) is a type of 2D bar code used to provide easy access to information through a smartphone or other device. The Host Great Meets QR codes contain information that when scanned, leads a person directly to a specific post.

How to use a QR Code

Many smartphones and other devices have barcode and QR code scanning built-in. Simply open the camera or barcode scanning app and point it at the code. Make sure all four corners of the code are in view. Let it focus and soon a link should appear on the screen. Click on the link. It will bring the device directly to the post. For more detailed instructions, see https://www.wikihow.com/Scan-a-QR-Code

Why use a QR Code to share this post?

Sharing helpful information helps others do a good job. Boost their performance by sharing information in a way they can reference later if needed. Even if they don’t need it later, sharing both verbally and visually increases retention. Using a QR code also allows for quick, easy, paperless, and touchless sharing. This method is especially useful on wet pool decks.

Swim Meet Marshal Instructions

Safety is your primary concern. Be polite, but firm to ensure a safe environment for all.

Arrive 15 minutes before warm-ups to:

  • Read these instructions and ask questions.
  • Meet the Meet Referee and Meet Director. Learn who is allowed on deck, in locker rooms, and other areas.
    • Are any restrooms for athletes only? If so, confirm the location of non-swimmer restrooms. Find out any special instructions and policies.
  • Locate the first aid station and supplies. Including
    • First Aid kit
    • Spinal backboard
    • Rescue implements
    • AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
  • Understand the Emergency Action Plan (EAP). This includes:
    • Phone numbers
    • Protocol for getting help
    • The person on deck who is responsible for activating the EAP. (If there isn’t one, discuss with Meet Referee.)
    • Get identifying attire and assignment

Provide a safe warm-up/down environment

  • No diving or backstroke starts except in controlled one-way sprint lanes.
  • Feet first entry from the ends at all other times.
  • No swimming style or equipment use that poses danger to other swimmers.
  • No congregating in lanes. Swimming only
  • Report too many swimmers in a lane to Meet Ref
  • Monitor warm-up/down areas throughout the meet
  • No diving or backstroke starts except in controlled one-way sprint lanes.
  • Feet first entry from the ends at all other times.
  • No swimming style or equipment use that poses dangers to other swimmers
  • No congregating in lanes, swimming only.
  • Report too many swimmers in a lane to Meet Ref
  • Monitor warm-up/down areas throughout the meet

Monitor meet areas

  • Regularly walk through halls, lobbies, spectator areas, and other parts of the facility with meet goers.
  • No running, horseplay, bullying, taunting, etc.
  • No deck changing.
    • Remind swimmers. Notify coach.
  • Respectfully request to see credentials from any adult on deck.
  • Report any suspicious or resistant adults to the Meet Director or Referee.
  • Blood or vomit: Notify lifeguards and stay in the area until addressed.

Monitor locker rooms and changing areas

  • Collaborate with other marshals to conduct a two-adult periodic walkthrough of same-gender locker rooms.
  • Check for use of prohibited recording devices including cell phones.
  • Check for unauthorized adults.
  • Encourage swimmers not to congregate.

Report unsafe areas to Meet Director

  • Unsafe areas might include, electrical hazards, fall hazards like slippery decks, use of glass on deck, blood on deck, or anything you consider to be dangerous.
  • Don’t leave your post without approval from Meet Director or supervisor.

USA Swimming Meets

Other

Give meet or facility-specific instructions as needed. Also, give any extra safety precautions and monitoring needed.

Downloadable Instructions for Swim Meet Marshals


Title Image Credit:  Image by Ron Lach available on Pexels (Background removed for this post)

Preparing for a swim meet? Check out The Ultimate Swim Meet To-Do List. Then, get a bird’s eye view of Who does What at Swim Meets. Both include easy-to-follow links to related information. Doing a smaller, simpler meet? Host a High School or Developmental Swim Meet will help.

Need more help? See 20+ Ways to Get Swim Meet Timers and Officials: 20+ Ways to Get them for Swim Meets


Also, discover a few things you can do to Increase Safety at Swim Meets. Find ideas to implement before your meet as well as last-minute quick and easy tips!

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