OEVT question for Event Directors

Hi Nicole! In New England we only offer OEVT memberships for sanctioned open water events, not pool meets. We revisit this policy every year or two but have not changed it since implementing the policy nearly a decade ago if I recall correctly. Speaking for myself, I'm indifferent about offering OEVT memberships at mini meets but oppose offering OEVTs at zone or LMSC championships or other large team-oriented meets at great venues, which IMO should be an exclusive membership benefit. For example, if we offered OEVT memberships for our annual 700-swimmer NELMSC SCY Championship at Harvard or 500-swimmer CCS-USMS meet at Boston University, dozens of swimmers might opt for OEVT who otherwise would've purchased a standard membership so they could participate in that marquee event potentially taking spots away from longtime full members. Of course, these events very popular and often sell out. If revenue and balancing the meet budget is an issue, then you must of course take that into consideration out of necessity. In the Northeast, it is becoming increasingly difficult and expensive to secure pools for big meets, almost prohibitively so.

Thanks so much Doug! I agree with your position on any larger meet 100%. 

Thanks so much Doug! I agree with your position on any larger meet 100%.