A resource person at the just concluded referees clinic organised by the Lagos
State Swimming Association, Oluremi Lawal,
has assured the public of competent officiating at the 18th National Sports Festival (NSF).

Lawal
told newsmen in Lagos, that the referees had been thoroughly drilled on the
application of the current rules and regulations at the clinic.

The clinic commenced on November 14 and ended on
November 17 at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, with over 50 participants in
attendance.

“Nothing but good officiating should be expected at the
NSF because we have taken time to update the referees with current rules and
regulations of swimming.

“The
referees have been trained on the inspection of turns, judging of strokes and
the importance of accurate time keeping.

“They
have all performed well and I assure you that there will be no problem with
officiating as far as swimming is concerned at the festival,” he said.

Lawal
added that in spite of the fact that they were already conversant with what to
expect at the NSF, it was still mandatory for them to attend the programme.

“We have
introduced the basic concept in officiating the breast stroke, back stroke,
butterfly and free style events.

“One key
note to take to mind is that a swimmer must break surface after 15 metres that
is, a swimmer must come to the surface after swimming underwater within 15
metres.

“If he does not, then he would be disqualified because
it is faster to swim underwater than on the surface,” he said.

Lawal said that the clinic also had a practical session
at the swimming pool complex, where the participants performed excellently.