European Aquatics announces details of 2026 Open Water Swimming Officials Clinic – Level 1

European Aquatics has announced the launch of the 2026 Open Water Swimming Clinic for Officials – Level 1, offering National Federations a new opportunity to develop qualified technical personnel in one of the fastest-growing aquatics disciplines.

The programme will be delivered entirely online through the European Aquatics Academy educational platform, enabling participants from across Europe to follow the course flexibly at any point during the year. The clinic is aimed primarily at officials from host National Federations of 2026 European Aquatics events who have national-level or limited experience and wish to progress toward roles as National Technical Officials. It is also open to all Member Federations seeking to strengthen and expand their pool of open water officials.

In his welcome message, European Aquatics President Antonio Silva highlighted the central role of education within the organisation’s Strategic Plan 2024–2030. He stressed that continuous learning for officials, referees, coaches and athletes is vital to ensure that the sport remains fair, innovative and ready for future development.

Participants must be between 18 and 65 years of age, demonstrate fluent English skills and hold at least national-level experience. The course concludes with a multiple-choice assessment, and successful candidates will be eligible to serve as Timekeeper, Finish Judge, Turn Judge or in assistant positions at events hosted by their federation. Certification will be valid for one calendar year.

Registration is completed directly on the European Aquatics Academy platform, where the course will be accessible throughout 2026. The participation fee is €50 and is payable via the online system.

By expanding access to structured education, European Aquatics continues to invest in the quality and consistency of officiating across the continent. The Level 1 clinic represents an important first step in a wider pathway aimed at building a skilled community of open water specialists capable of supporting events at both national and international level.

Registration is completed directly on the European Aquatics Academy platform, where the course will be accessible throughout 2026. The participation fee is €50 and is payable via the online system. Click here to access the platform and register for the clinic.

Stephen Stanley for European Aquatics

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