Swimming & Diving Comments on the Rules - 2025-26
2-1, 2-7-2b, 2-7-3, 8-1-2 — The new rule permitting the use of backstroke ledges in pools with a minimum water depth of 6 feet or 1.84 meters (measured from the starting end wall to at least 16 feet, 5 inches or 5 meters from the end wall) presents a thoughtful and well-researched approach that prioritizes athlete safety and aligns with national and international swimming standards. This rule change reflects a balanced decision based on thorough research, risk minimization strategies, and alignment with best practices in competitive swimming.
The proposal’s permissive nature is a key aspect of its flexibility. It allows state associations to choose whether to implement the use of the backstroke ledge based on the resources and circumstances within their specific regions. Aquatic facilities will not be required to use the ledge, but if they choose to do so, they must ensure that identical equipment is available for all lanes. In addition, swimmers may also choose whether to use the backstroke ledge if it is made available. This flexibility ensures that the technology can be used in situations where it is both safe and practical, while not creating undue burdens on facilities that may not have the infrastructure or resources to support the use of the equipment. Detailed specifications regarding the design, dimensions and durability of the backstroke ledge should be provided to member schools prior to the contest. Clear guidelines will help to maintain safety standards and ensure that the ledge is functional and accessible for all swimmers. Facilities will also need to consider the cost of implementing backstroke ledges, as this may impact their decision to allow the modification.
The 6-foot (1.84-meter) water depth requirement is critical for ensuring athlete safety during the backstroke start. This depth along with the distance requirement of 16 feet, 5 inches (5 meters) provides the necessary space for proper body positioning, helping to minimize the risk of collision with the pool bottom, especially during the explosive movements of the start. The backstroke ledge is a valuable tool that facilitates a more efficient start, but its use must always be in environments that meet these depth requirements.
The recommendation to have athletes practice with the ledge prior to using it in competition is crucial for ensuring they are comfortable and proficient with the equipment. This practice allows swimmers to understand the proper technique and familiarize themselves with the adjustments required to achieve an optimal backstroke start. Coaches should ensure that their athletes have sufficient training time with the ledge to minimize any performance disruptions during actual competition.
Given that the backstroke ledge is a relatively new piece of equipment, it is crucial to provide extensive training and support for officials. They must be prepared to exercise patience and precision in managing the setup and adjustments of the ledge, as this can be a time-consuming task. Officials should be encouraged to take the time necessary to familiarize themselves with various styles of ledges. Training materials should stress the importance of maintaining a careful and methodical approach to avoid mistakes or confusion during competition.
Athletes must set the backstroke ledge before their start, and the determination of who will remove the ledge following the start is an important operational detail. To avoid confusion and ensure consistency, it is essential that protocols are established for how the ledge should be managed. Options for ledge removal could be the designation of a teammate, a timer, an official or other staff members to manage the ledge’s removal if it is not automated. Additionally, failure to properly remove the ledge may allow the swimmer to re-swim should the meet referee determine it impeded the swimmer's performance. With appropriate education, preparation and operational protocols in place, the adoption of backstroke ledges can be a positive development for the sport, offering both safety and performance benefits to athletes across the nation.
8-3-4a — The purpose of this rule provision is to address safety concerns related to deck starts, and to prohibit scenarios where swimmers attempt to generate significant momentum by running toward the pool edge before diving into the water. This practice poses serious safety risks and is prohibited under the rule. However, it is important to clarify that the intent of this provision is not to penalize swimmers who engage in slight movements with the non-stationary foot for better balance or to improve stance while preparing for the start. This type of minor foot movement is generally a natural part of adjusting one’s position for optimal balance and should not be interpreted as an attempt to gain additional momentum. The rule explicitly prohibits swimmers from stepping back from the pool edge and then running toward before performing the relay start.