Competition and Event Volunteers

When our swimmers go to external competitions, we require a small number of volunteers to ensure our swimmers are looked after and to provide support as officials to comply with the licensing requirements of the event.

If we run our own swimming events, then we need a 30-40 volunteers to run the event. This page gives more information on these roles, and we are always looking for people to help out.

Swim Competition Volunteer Roles

Role

What do I have to do?

Training Requirements

Timekeeper

Operate a stopwatch

Record time

Check  starts, turns and finishes

Attend online training and a practical session

Chaperone

Helps Team Manager to look after specific swimmers during galas/competitions.

DBS check conducted by club

Appropriate safeguarding training (3 hours)

Team Manager

Organise swimmers in time for races as prompted by announcer/stewards.

Link between parents and swimmers

Ensure swimmer welfare whilst poolside.

DBS check conducted by club

Appropriate safeguarding training (3 hours)

Team Manager training (2 hours)

Judges

Similar to timekeeping role but more training and mentoring provided to become confident in swimming rules.

Online theory course followed by on the job training/assessment undertaking different roles at different events.

Stewards

Get swimmers in heat and lane order according to the event list so they are ready to take part in their event at the right time.

On the job

Recorder

Use database on laptop to record results from timekeepers.

On the job

Announcer

Use PA system to announce safety instructions from script and each race plus ad hoc announcements.

On the job training

Door

Take entrance fee for event. Sometimes sell raffle tickets as well to support club.

None required

Runner

Ensures officials are kept hydrated and sweet with sweets!

None required

Team Manager

The team manager ensures team cohesion at aquatic events and competitions. This may include the organisation of the logistics where the competition is at a different venue. 

What do we expect from a Team Manager?

The main responsibilities involve planning and preparation in advance of the competition/event, and attendance at the competition/event to organize the swimmers.

Pre-requisites
  • You should hold an up-to-date Barred List Check and/or Enhanced DBS check and have completed approved child Safeguarding training within a reasonable time of taking up the position.
  • To attend team manager training as required.

You need to have taken the Team Manager 1 course. Team Manager 1 is aimed at those on single day competitions or camps where there is no overnight stay. Should there be an overnight away trip, then the Team Manager 2 course is required.

Responsibilities Pre-Event
  • To regularly communicate with parents, verbally and in writing, to ensure they are aware of the full details of the event including; meeting points for departure and arrival, staffing arrangements, overnight accommodation and food and drink arrangements.
  • To be responsible for the administration and coordination of aquatic teams.
  • To attend pre-competition/camp briefings as required.
  • To arrange all team travel, itineraries, accommodation, and team kit as required.
  • To provide information to athletes, coaches, parents/guardians as appropriate.
  • To undertake team selections as appropriate and in consultation with others.
Responsibilities during Event
  • To provide a central point of contact for the team.
  • To be responsible for the safeguarding and well-being of athletes and staff.
  • To be responsible on behalf of the team for any protests lodged during a competition.
  • To promote positive team spirit and behaviours.

 

volunteer