| The most challenging change in the
rules (since changing to USS on September 1, 2006) concerns backstroke
turns. Specifically, the USS/YMCA rules require
that the turn is continuous after the swimmer goes on the belly.
NCAA and High School rules allow us to coast or float into the wall after
turning on the belly. USS/YMCA rules do not allow any "coast".
In short, officials will be watching to
confirm that the swimmer's arm and body is in CONTINUOUS TURNING MOTION
after the turnover.
Kicking alone is NOT considered continuous.
So, focus on the arms and body. Kicking is allowed through the
turn. But, kicking without flipping or pulling is coasting.
Swimmers typically extend the lead arm while
turning on the belly. The turn begins when the swimmer is on the
belly-which happens to coincide with the lead arm extension. The swimmer
should immediately initiate the turn by pulling with the lead arm AND
FLIPPING. Holding the extended arm still in front of the
swimmer before flipping is NOT CONTINUOUS motion. Failure to flip
immediately after making the arm pull is NOT CONTINUOUS motion.
Swimmers that are unsure of their ability to
make the turn in a continuous manner should speak with coaches about an
alternate turn.
Please note that the officials are calling
this rule as instructed to do so by the Districts/States referee.
Officials do not want to disqualify swimmers. The officials hope that the
swimmers learn the "new" technique to avoid disqualification. |
