NVSL Dive Parents and Supporters,

We’ve all had our first NVSL Dive Meet last Tuesday!

First, let me thank all of you who came to the Coaches’, Referees’ and Judges’ Clinics. Your interest and dedication to the sport reflects both your own and your sons’/daughters’ interest in the sport of diving. If you lose any sleep about being a referee or judge, then we have been successful in our instruction. We had 141 attendees at our judge’s clinics and over 100 referees certified for this year! We welcome and encourage any parent who wants to learn more about diving to attend our clinics next year.

A few reminders for our referees and judges as we continue the NVSL Season:

1. Make sure you and your judges get to the meet at least 30 minutes prior to the start to review the rules and get the sheets checked.

2. As a reminder, coaches cannot be referees or judges.

3. Make sure that all of the judges on your panel know the specific rules and standards for NVSL diving. Ensure that all of the judges are familiar with the scoring ranges

i. Excellent 10

ii. Very Good 8 ½ - 9 ½

iii. Good 7 - 8

iv. Satisfactory 5 - 6 ½

v. Deficient 2 ½ - 4 1/2

vi. Unsatisfactory ½ - 2

vii. Failed 0

4. Remember the keys to judging:

a. Bold, controlled approach

b. Verticality in takeoff (if no vertical takeoff, deduct significantly)

c. Tight body positions (straight, pike, tuck, or free)

d. Entry which is “finished” prior to hitting the water

And, don’t overscore the 201A, 5111A and 5211A!

As a developmental league, we need to encourage all our divers to improve, but also to maintain the integrity of the sport by applying the standards of dive equitably. It is our “prime directive” to do exactly that.

Referees/Table Workers – please check dive sheets carefully prior to the meet start. I had at least 5 potential disqualifications, had I not looked at the sheets closely. Save yourself a lot of handwringing and ensure the coaches do their job when submitting sheets.

Finally, encourage SPORTSMANSHIP! That goes for ALL of us – referees, judges, announcers, table workers, coaches, team reps, divers, parents, and spectators. We set the example for our kids.

If you have questions, you can contact me at jsweeder@verizon.net or 703-503-2959 (home), 571-214-3931 (cell).

Jim Sweeder

NVSL Dive

Chief Official