Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
World Aquatics has revamped its Technical Officials' Pathway, launching a tiered system of Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels to provide standardized training and certification for officials across all six aquatic sports. The framework integrates education, experience, and evaluation to develop skills and assess performance, enabling merit-based appointments to events organized by World Aquatics.
The Silver Level course for diving officials was held over three days in Zapopan, Mexico. It was led by Melanie Beck (GBR), Lecturer and World Aquatics Diving Technical Committee Vice-Chair, with support from Gordon Peterson (CAN), Lecturer and Committee Member. Both highlighted the collaboration and learning opportunities the course created for participants and facilitators.
Participants reported positive outcomes from the course. Wing Hung Tsui (HKG) described the experience as exceptionally rewarding, noting the practical insights and high-quality training that improved his confidence and knowledge. Miguel Pablo Velazquez Dorgan (MEX) emphasized the course's effectiveness in strengthening understanding of rule interpretation, evaluation skills, and World Aquatics performance standards.
The event also welcomed notable attendees such as Rommel Pacheco Marrufo, Director General of CONADE and former diver, who encouraged participants and lecturers. Fernando Platas Álvarez, President of Aquatics Mexico, was also present.
This Silver Level course demonstrates World Aquatics’ commitment to continuous improvement and professional development among its technical officials, aiming for consistent standards across aquatic disciplines.