Last month, USA Swimming introduced the concept of a crawl, walk, race approach to a return to competition. As part of that return to competition plan, for July 2020, the USA Swimming Board of Directors has approved sanctioning of meets comprised only of athletes and clubs registered within the sanctioning Local Swimming Committee (LSC).
USA Swimming’s Return to Competition plan can be viewed online.
With the recognition that many clubs have limited or no access to facilities, and to maintain a level playing field, times achieved in sanctioned meets during July 2020 may not be used for any USA Swimming programs, camps, or competitions above the LSC level.
Competitions above the LSC level include, but are not limited to, Zones, Sectionals, Futures, Junior Nationals, US Open, National Championships and the US Olympic Team Trials – Swimming. LSCs may use times achieved for LSC programs, meet qualifications, etc.
All competition events must conform to local, state and federal public health guidelines. An LSC shall establish submission deadlines for sanction or approval applications and shall publish such periods, along with relevant instructions and forms.
Given the varying access to facilities and myriad of local requirements, USA Swimming understands that clubs and athletes may not be able to attend or host a traditional sanctioned competition. In the coming weeks, USA Swimming will share new practice-based opportunities for recognition and fun virtual events in which clubs and athletes can participate.
Every club planning to host or attend a meet must develop a Return to Competition plan. Return to competition can only occur if and when relevant local authorities have deemed it safe to return to competition.
USA Swimming adds that it in no way endorses conducting practice or competition in violation of any local, state, or federal guidelines.
