How many officials does a meet need?
Rule- USA
- USA Swimming
- Stroke and turn
- Age group and senior meets
- All ages
- 2026 rules
- Officials
Minimum positions under Article 102.10 (an LSC may require more):
| Position | Most meets (102.10.3) | Development, dual and intra-squad meets (102.10.4) |
|---|---|---|
| Referee | 1 | 1 (may also act as a stroke and turn judge) |
| Starter | 1 | 1 |
| Stroke/turn judges | 2 stroke and 2 turn judges, or 2 stroke and turn judges | 1 other stroke and turn judge (may be the Starter) |
| Timers | 3 per lane (minimum 1 with touchpads) | 3 per lane (minimum 1 with touchpads) |
| Place judge | 1 (2 preferred) | 1 |
| Administrative official | 1 | 1 |
| Marshals | 2, at least one of each gender | 2, at least one of each gender |
Also as needed: clerk of course, relay take-off judges, announcer and timing equipment operators.
Apart from the Referee and Administrative Official, officials may cover more than one role only when there aren't enough qualified officials. No one may time and judge the order of finish at the same time.
Added 21 Oct 2026