GENERAL PRINCIPLES

of
OFFICIATING

Module 1

SELF MANAGEMENT

Read these notes and make your own notes of any parts or statements that
you do not fully understand so you can question the Presenter.

Masters Swimming Australia Technical Course Modules – Support Material 1

4.2.8 General Principles of Officiating Part A Module 1. Self Management Candidates Notes
© Copyright August 2008 - No part shall be reproduced without the written permission of Masters Swimming Australia
 SELF MANAGEMENT
Officiating is a very interesting and varied activity. Successful officials are those who
demonstrate leadership skills, are flexible when needed, can accept constructive
criticism, constantly evaluate their own actions and decisions and can evaluate
others. They provide a safe and fair swimming competition environment.

Personal requirements

• Proficiency in the sport of swimming.

• Knowledge and understanding of the Rules of Masters Swimming.
• Good communication skills in the swimming environment.
• Enthusiasm, confidence, discipline and dedication.
• Ability to manage yourself.
• Good interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.
• Patience and dedication especially when working with trainees.
• Ability to encourage, inspire and motivate.
• Understanding of the principles of event management.
• Good professional presentation, pride in one’s personal appearance,
discipline and dedication.
• If possible, experience as a competitor, although this does not guarantee
success as an official.

Officiating Tips

A. Officials must first learn to manage their own behaviour.

B. Good officials have the courage to do the right thing at the right time.

C. Officials do not allow themselves to be harassed or flustered.

D. Officials must be lifelong learners.

E. Check yourself in a mirror to see how you look when you are officiating.

F. Immediately after an event, pinpoint one error you made. Write it down. Be
your own most severe critic.

G. Officiating is a “doing” operation.

Masters Swimming Australia Technical Course Modules – Support Material 2

4.2.8 General Principles of Officiating Part A Module 1. Self Management Candidates Notes
© Copyright August 2008 - No part shall be reproduced without the written permission of Masters Swimming Australia