USA Swimming Adopts October 1 Ban on Full-Body
Suits (9/19/2009)
At its annual
Convention on Saturday, over 400 USA Swimming Delegates, representing swim clubs from all 50
states, voted overwhelmingly
for early implementation of a ban on high-tech swimsuits. The
legislation, which will go into effect on October 1, regulates
swimsuits worn in all USA Swimming–sanctioned
competitions.
The Amendment to Rule 102.9 reads, in
part:
“All swimsuits shall be made from
textile materials. For men, the swimsuit shall not extend above the
navel nor below the knees, and for women, shall not cover the neck,
extend past the shoulder, nor extend below the knee.”
Textile fabric is defined as material
consisting of natural and/or synthetic, individual and
non-consolidated yarns used to constitute a fabric by weaving,
knitting and/or braiding.
The legislation will go into effect here in
the U.S. three months before FINA, swimming’s international
governing body, is expected to implement the same rule for
international competition.
“As an organization, we have been
working with FINA and other swimming nations to find a solution
that will ensure a fair and even playing field for all swimmers,
and that will ultimately advance the best interests of our
sport,” said Chuck Wielgus, USA Swimming Executive Director.
“With Saturday’s vote, our membership has sent a clear
message that it wanted this action taken sooner, rather than later.
We hope that this action will put the emphasis back where it
belongs – on our athletes, their training and hard
work.”
The regulation will apply to all levels of
USA Swimming meets.
