Training to become a technical official requires both an online component and a practical component.
The online component involves completing the relevant online module for the role that you would like to learn, while the practical component allows new officials to obtain real experience by working with a mentor on pool deck.
Following these undertakings and consultation with the SNT Technical Manager, new technical officials are then able to be signed off as competent and be provided with accreditation for that role.
Currently Swimming Australia is updating their Technical Official Online Modules, Learning Guides and Training Notes, however the information required can be found below.
Technical Official Training
- Online Modules
- Timekeeper and Chief Timekeeper
- Check Starter and Marshal (Clerk of the Course is no longer a requirement, but useful)
- Inspector of Turns
- Judge of Stroke
- Starter
- Recorder
- Dolphin Timing Equipment
- Meet Manager Operator
- Referee
- Learning Guides
- Training Notes
- Workshops & Webinars
The first online module that is required is called the "Community Officiating General Principles" and can be done through the Australian Sports Commission Learning website.
You will be required to setup an account, then once in you can complete the course.
Following completion of this, you may now move onto the role specific online modules. These have been developed by Swimming NSW and are available for the following Technical Official positions:
All of these modules can be found on the Swimming NSW Course webpage.
To assist you with your online modules, these learning guides (whilst a little out of date) contain very useful information about the requirements of each role.
Self Management for Advanced Officials
A Learner Guide Module Coversheet must be completed in full to prove an official has gained an accreditation:
Standard Module Cover Sheet - Updated January 2021
Module Cover Sheet for Starter and Referee Accreditations - Updated January 2021
The training notes are to be done in conjunction with the training exercises.
Please note : Candidates attempting SAL Learner Guides / Modules for Technical Official accreditation must complete the relevant training exercises before the SAL module is attempted.
Inspector of Turns - updated January 2020
Judge of Stroke - updated January 2020
Referee - updated January 2020
Meet Manager TM/MM Workbook Part 1 - updated 2020
Meet Manager TM/MM Workbook Part 2 - updated 2020
Meet Manager TM/MM Workbook Part 3 - updated 2020
Meet Manager TM/MM Workbook Part 4 - updated 2020
Dolphin/Meet Manager Manual - updated January 2021
Dolphin Timing - updated May 2023
Swimming Victoria has done an incredible job of putting together a host of webinars about officiating that are great viewing. Many shot during the COVID period, some commentary may have aged, however, the content is excellent and SNT strongly encourages you to take the time to watch these webinars to increase your knowledge of the requirements of technical officiating.
