Since USMS started implementing a phased approach to return to competition last November, several dozen in-person USMS events have been held safely and provided valuable feedback.
With vaccines becoming more widely distributed, USMS is providing Phase 2 guidance to allow events to plan accordingly as we look ahead to the summer season.
We understand that holding events may still be challenging for some areas of the country because of state, local, and facility restrictions. Phase 2 provides flexibility for LMSCs to determine appropriate safeguards for their region and ensure the safety of USMS members while considering the requirements of the facility and local and state health expectations.
The revised return to competition guidelines and safety plan addendum can be found on the COVID-19 Event Resources page. Notable updates include:
- Removing the 50 person per session limit because facilities vary widely. Some large facilities can easily accommodate more than 50 swimmers, but some should be limited to fewer than 50.
- Travel guidance to be determined in consultation with local and state health requirements.
- Best practices for relays if it is deemed they can be held safely while allowing for continued social distancing.
- USMS position on encouraging, but not requiring, COVID-19 vaccinations.
The COVID-19 Event Resources page and these guidelines will continue to be updated as needed as conditions evolve. Please contact event services with any questions.
With the launch of the USMS Community, we would like to offer USMS-sanctioned events the opportunity to post about and promote their events in the Events and Results group. Community is open to all USMS members, and discussion around sanctioned events is encouraged.