Officials play a vital role in making swim meets fair, safe, and efficient. SWAT Swim Club depends on certified officials to run successful home and away meets and we’re always looking for parents, alumni, and community members who want to contribute. Becoming an official is a great way to get involved, support your athlete, and better understand the sport.

Becoming a USA Swimming Official

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Talk to SWAT

Let us know you’re interested! We’ll connect you with our local Officials Chair and help you register for the right training path.

2. Register as a Non-Athlete Member with USA Swimming

• Go to USA Swimming Registration
• Choose “Official” as your membership type
• Link your membership to SWAT Swim Club (and the Wyoming Swimming LSC)

3. Complete Required Certifications

Before stepping on deck, you'll need to complete the following:

• USA Swimming Background Check
• Start here (takes 3–5 days), required every 2 years
• Athlete Protection Training (APT)
• Take the course (about 90 minutes), required every year
• Concussion Protocol Training
• Take the course (provided online through the CDC)
• Foundations of Officiating
• Take the course
• Stroke & Turn Clinic
• Take the course

4. Apprentice on Deck

• You’ll need to complete a minimum of 4 shadow sessions across 2 meets, working alongside certified officials.
• SWAT and Wyoming Swimming meets provide plenty of opportunities to complete these required apprentice sessions.

5. Get Certified!

Once you finish your shadowing sessions and testing, you’ll be certified as a Stroke & Turn Official through USA Swimming and WYSI.