Helping our meets run
Officiating and Volunteering
Every swim meet is run by volunteers. From timing races to organizing swimmers and recording results, many people work together to make each session possible.
When PCM hosts a meet, we rely on our families to help. No previous swimming or officiating experience is needed, and there are roles suitable for complete beginners.
Why Become an Official?
It is one of the best ways to become involved in the sport.
- Watch the races up close from the pool deck
- Meet other parents and swimming families
- Better understand competitive swimming
- Become more involved with the team
- Support your swimmer and their teammates
- Help meets run smoothly for every swimmer
An easy way to get started
Every Family Can Help
PCM would like at least one person from every family to complete the Timekeeper course.
Easy to Complete
The Timekeeper course is straightforward and no previous officiating experience is required.
Available Online
The course can be completed online at any time that is convenient for you.
Ages 12 and Older
Parents, grandparents, older siblings and swimmers aged 12 or older can become trained timekeepers.
Getting Started as a Timekeeper
Timekeeping is the easiest and most common way to begin officiating.
It also gives you one of the best views of the racing!
Timekeepers stand behind the starting blocks and record each swimmer’s race time using a stopwatch and, when required, the electronic timing equipment.
Before the session begins, officials attend a short briefing where the role and equipment are explained.
New timekeepers are supported by experienced officials, so you are not expected to arrive knowing everything.
Take the first step
Timekeeper Course
The Timekeeper course can be completed online whenever it is convenient for you.
After completing the course, please let our officials coordinator know so we can update PCM’s officials list.
Instructions for Timekeeper Course
Officials Coordinator:
officials.pcm@gmail.com
Meet day
Helping at a Swim Meet
Before a PCM-hosted meet, families will receive information about the available volunteer roles and sessions.
Signing Up
- Choose a session when you are available.
- Select a role you are trained to complete.
- Arrive in time for the officials’ briefing.
- Remain in your assigned position until the session finishes.
Your First Session
If you have completed the course but have not timed before, let us know.
We can help place you with an experienced volunteer so you have support during your first session.
What to Expect on Meet Day
Officials should arrive before the session begins so they have time to sign in and attend the briefing. The exact arrival time and location will be included in the meet information.
Wear comfortable clothing and clean, non-slip footwear suitable for the pool deck. Bring a water bottle, as the pool area can become warm.
If you are unsure where to go or what to do, ask the officials coordinator or Chief Timekeeper. Someone will be available to help.
Continue learning
Other Officiating Roles
Timekeeping is only one of the roles needed to run a swim meet. You can remain a timekeeper for as long as you wish or explore other positions as you become more comfortable.
- Safety Marshal
- Chief Timekeeper
- Clerk of Course
- Inspector of Turns
- Judge of Stroke
- Starter
- Recorder/Scorer
- Meet Manager
Some roles require additional courses and practical experience. Training may be offered online, through PCM or through another local club.
Helping at Away Meets
Your training can be used at meets hosted by other clubs.
Parents may also be able to officiate when PCM swimmers attend away meets.
Helping at an away meet is a good way to gain experience, meet officials from other teams and support the host club.
Volunteer requests or sign-up information may be included in the meet package or shared before the event. If you are unsure how to volunteer, ask PCM’s officials coordinator.
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know a lot about swimming?
No. The Timekeeper course explains the role, and instructions are reviewed again before each session.
How old do I need to be?
You must be at least 12 years old to complete the course and become a timekeeper.
What if I make a mistake?
Don’t worry—there are usually two, and sometimes three, timekeepers assigned to every lane. There is also a Chief Timekeeper who is ready to help if a stopwatch does not start, a time is missed or something else goes wrong.
Will I still be able to watch my child race?
Yes. Timekeepers have a great view of the pool and can watch their child race. However, your first responsibility is your assigned lane, so you must watch the starting signal and the swimmer in your lane to start and stop the stopwatch accurately.
Do I have to become certified in other positions?
No. You can continue helping as a timekeeper. Additional officiating roles are available if you are interested in learning more.
Can another family member complete the course?
Yes. Parents, grandparents, older siblings and swimmers aged 12 or older may complete it.
Do I have to help at every meet?
No. Families can volunteer for sessions that fit their availability. However, PCM needs support from all families when we host meets.
Ready to Get Started?
Completing the Timekeeper course is a simple way to support your swimmer, help the club and become more confident at swim meets.
Questions? Contact officials.pcm@gmail.com