In this issue:
Congratulations to Mercerwood Shore Club as Midlakes League Champions. Also, congratulations to the following Division Champs winners: Div I – Edgebrook, Div II – Samena, Div III - Maple Hills, Div IV - Phantom Lake, Div V – High Woodlands. Job well done to all.
Lots of “thank you’s” to pass around (in no particular order):
Kudos to specific officials from other officials and coaches: Melissa Lloyd (OL), Cymone Kilmer (HW), Simon Lee (HW), Tamara Russell (HW), Kim Durkin (HW), Dave Noll (KGM), Diane Toefield (TRI), Laurie McDonald (TRI), John Fisk (MICC), Marc Lacrampe (MICC), Wendy Hoffman (MICC), Dan Kolton (MICC), Mike Howard (MICC), Dick Benster (MICC), and Dave Bublitz (FW). Job well done!
Special thanks to officials who were recognized multiple times by other officials and coaches: Susan Sutich (OL), John Lynn (EB), Tom Matthes (PL), Dave Lee (HW), Nobi Nelson (TOS), Steve Anderson (NYC), and Margaret Brunke (KGG). Great job to all of you!
Thanks to all of the officials (especially USA Swimming officials) who stepped up to help with the post-season events, including Division Champs. And special recognition goes to Connie Sholdra (RH) who worked all League Champs Prelims and Finals meets. Thanks Connie!
And further thanks to all of you for your trust in me and allowing me to be a resource for you - especially when things didn't go as expected. I know that as we continue to progress as an organization we've encountered "growing pains" and we need to learn from those experiences! Be sure to let me know if you have additional questions or concerns that you'd like to see addressed for next year.
Here are some last minute things to remember when officiating next year:
On eligibility to swim at Champs: If a swimmer does not swim in 2 or more dual meets, or is not available to swim at Saturday Finals, they are not eligible to swim in the League Championship Prelims. Please be sure to encourage fellow swimming families to schedule their vacation for August!
On "in the water" relay starts: Swimmers are required to remain touching the wall with their hand and no one (coach, parent, or spectator) is allowed to touch the swimmer to keep their hand on the wall. Of course, you can always yell at them all you want "Keep your hand on the wall!".
On proper swim attire: Yes, the rules apply equally and swimmers should be given a warning before being DQd (if they don't comply), even during the "fun, year-end" relays. So no, boys cannot legally wear girls suits.
Please watch for updates for next year’s season – Officials Training announcements will be made sometime late March/early April. In the meantime, if you have friends who would like to be included, please pass along their email address and I’ll add them to the distribution list. And if anyone is interested in becoming a USA Swimming certified official, please contact me as training sessions are being scheduled now for September and October.
And lest I forget, it has been a pleasure serving as Midlakes Officials Chair - thanks to all of you and your involvement! Your efforts have made a difference in supporting kids and their athletic efforts in swimming. On behalf of the board, it is much appreciated.
Scott Allen
Midlakes Swim League
Officials Chair
