The following outlines the jobs that are required to run a meet including a brief description of what the jobs entail and the time frame required. A “session” starts at the time of warm-up and ends after the last event. Please note that some jobs require that you be available before a session begins or after it ends.
Computer/Scoreboard/Announcer: Responsible for running the swim meet computer program. Includes scratches, heat lane assignments, retrieving results from the Colorado system and printing event results. Training on the computer is required; length of training is based on an individual’s understanding of the program and comfort level in operating the computer at a meet. Makes all announcements include introductions, national anthem or pledge of allegiance, heats, swimmers, etc. Time Estimate: Meet Session, pre-session preparation time and post-session completion results.
Starter: Responsible for starting swimmers from the blocks. USA Swimming registered preferred but not mandatory. Training provided by meet manager. Time Estimate: Meet Session
Head Timer: Responsible for stopwatch and lane assignments. Also serves as “back-up” timer. Time Estimate: Meet Session
Timers: Responsible for operating the stopwatch to record a swimmer’s time on the timer sheet. These times are used as a back-up time in case the touch pads of the Colorado Timing system do not function properly. There are 2 timers per lane. In addition to operating the stopwatch, one timer records the stopwatch times on the timer sheet and the other operates the back-up button of the Colorado Timing system. Time Estimate: Meet Session
Runner: Responsible for distributing and retrieving timer sheets during the meet. Records times from timers as needed and delivers them to the scoreboard/computer area. Time Estimate: Meet Session
Comet Parent Gatherers: Responsible for gathering swimmers and ushering them to their blocks. Time Estimate: Meet Session
Warm Down Area Helpers: Responsible for overseeing swimmers in the warm down area and instructing them to warm down and exit the area in a safe and efficient manner. Time Estimate: Meet Session
Set Up/Clean Up: Responsible for set up before and after the meet session at the direction of the Meet Coordinator. Time Estimate: 10-15 minutes before meet session and up to 10-15 after meet session
Concessions: Purchase and sell concession items. Time Estimate: 10-15 minutes before meet session and during meet session as well as time to purchase items
Ribbons: Placing times on award ribbons. Time Estimate: Meet Session
Popsicles: Provide two 24-packs of popsicles. Time Estimate: Drop off in swim office freezer before Meet Session