At the USAS convention this past September in Dallas, TX the United States Swimming House of Delegates voted to initiate a comprehensive membership dues increase to begin in 2004 and continue through 2015. The revenue generate by this increase is mandated to support new programs in three general areas considered of high importance to the future of USA Swimming... Facilities, Marketing, and Club Programs and Services.

To be proactive and accountable to the members of United States Swimming, Executive Director Chuck Wielgus, and new President Ron Van Pool immediately began to establish special task forces in each area. These task forces were appointed to represent a wide cross section of USA Swimming member clubs, staff, volunteers, and Board of Directors. Each is charged with soliciting the input of the membership and will submit a report to the Executive Director suggesting and prioritizing new initiatives to be included in the 2004 budget for implementation and supported by the revenue from the membership dues increase.

The Programs and Services Task Force will focus on enhancing service and resources to help USA Swimming member clubs succeed. The task force is co-chaired by Pat Hogan, the new Director of Club Development for USA Swimming (Staff) and Jeff Gudman, Vice President of National Administration (Board of Directors). The final written report from this group will be submitted on March 31, 2003.

The Programs and Services Task Force is considering many suggestions in its area, and soliciting input and ideas from as many members of the USA Swimming as possible. The participation of a great a cross section of USA Swimming membership is extremely important. Please offer your thoughts to the process to the task force.

Effective January 20, 2003, required water depth for the use of starting blocks in competition is now 4 feet. Complete ruling on this matter by the USA Swimming Board of Directors can be found on the USA Swimming website.