DQ FAQs
What is a DQ?
A DQ is signaled by a stroke judge raising their hand while a swimmer is in the water. The time achieved will not count and a blank or DQ will be listed on the results sheet (see Results) for the event. This is not the end of the world and it happens to all swimmers at one time or another (or many times as they learn). It is part of the learning process and helps the swimmer evaluate and develop their technique. The official will mark the reason for the DQ and give it to the coach so the swimmer can be instructed on the nature of the error so it can be worked on in practice.
What are the most common reasons kids are DQ'd?
Freestyle:
The following actions can result in a DQ during a freestyle event:
- Not touching the wall on the turn
- Pulling on lane ropes or the wall
- Pushing off the bottom of the pool or walking
- Exiting the pool before swimming the designated length
Butterfly:
The following actions can result in a DQ during a butterfly event:
- Performing a double pull underwater
- Illegal kicking where the legs aren't together (flutter kick, breaststroke kick)
- Touching the wall with only one hand
Breastroke:
- The following actions can result in a DQ during a breaststroke event:
- Touching the wall with only one hand
- Illegally kicking the legs (no flutter kick or side stroke, legs must be synchronized)
- Performing two underwater pulls
- Pulling the arms past the waist (this is OK on the underwater pull after starts and turns)
Backstroke:
The following actions can result in a DQ during a backstroke event:
- Performing an improper turn (on a flip turn, this means taking more than one stroke on the stomach)
- Going vertical
- Finishing illegally (on IM, the swimmer must touch the wall on their back)
- Pulling on lane ropes
- Turning onto stomach
Relays:
The following actions can result in a DQ during a relay event:
- Leaving too soon
**Breaststroke and Butterfly are difficult strokes to master. Many of the problems on the Breast or Butterfly are the result of a child not being strong, and therefore errors are made just trying to stay afloat and breathe.
Are the Stroke Judges trained?
Absolutely! Stroke Judges are volunteers who go through training each year. At the end of their training, they are tested. They learn much more than just what is listed. Stroke Judges do their best to speak with each DQ’d child to explain the problem. However, the kids frequently run off or the starter needs to start the next heat.
What if I don't agree with the call?
The Stroke Judges are assigned to a lane and as a spectator, you may not see what they see. They are responsible for more than one swimmer at a time and they may miss things too. Stroke Judges only call what they see. There may not be time to explain to every parent what their child did incorrectly, especially with the small kids. You can discuss any concerns about DQs with your team parent reps. You should never confront a Stroke Judge about a DQ.
Can I be a Stroke Judge?
Definitely! Please contact a Parent Rep for more information and dates of upcoming training sessions.
What if my questions aren't answered here?
If you have any more questions, ask your team's Parent Reps or get more information at RMSL.org.
