Swim meets are a critical part of our sport—giving athletes the opportunity to test their skills, set personal bests, and grow as competitors.

Behind every successful swim meet is a dedicated team of certified officials.

In Ontario, swim officials are trained volunteers, often parents or family members. Without enough certified officials on deck, meets cannot be sanctioned and swimmers lose the opportunity to race.

🌟 Why Become a Swim Official?

Be part of your swimmer’s experience right on deck while helping to ensure meets are fair, safe, and fun.

Support LLSC’s ability to attend and participate in meets while fulfilling your volunteer hour requirement in a meaningful way!

🧑‍🏫 How to Get Started

To volunteer as an official at a sanctioned meet, individuals aged 14+ must be registered with Swimming Canada and complete Level I certification including :

Option 1: Online Clinics 

Complete the same two clinics online at your convenience.

Please follow the the guildeline here to begin your clinics!

Email our Officials Coordinator at lindsaylightningbolts@gmail.com for your registration link and instructions.

Option 2: In-Person Clinics 

In-person clinics are hosted by the club once or twice per year. The Officials Coordinator will email the Lightningbolts community when registration opens.

Alternatively, you are welcome to register for clinics at other locations. More information can be found on the Swim Canada website.

Once clinics are completed:

✅ you'll be certified as a Level I Official and can volunteer as a Timekeeper at sanctioned meets.

✅ submit your volunteer hours that were spent in training. 

If you require assistance at any time, email our Officials Coordinator at lindsaylightningbolts@gmail.com.

📈 Advancing to Level II

After gaining some on-deck experience, you may move to Level II roles like:

• Inspector of Turns

• Stroke Judge

• Chief Timekeeper

By attending the applicable clinics and completing two successful deck evaluations, you’ll become a Level II Official, which opens the door to even more important roles at swim meets.

⚠️ Did You Know?

Swim Ontario holds every club accountable through an Officials Tier System—based on how many volunteers progress through the official levels. Helping out helps us grow as a club!

🔗 Learn More

Visit: Swim Ontario – Officials