History, Learning, External Organizations
About Us
Learn about the Illinois Swimming Officials Association, our history, our mission, and how we support officials in education, leadership, and community.
Our History
A Tradition of Service Since 1972
For more than five decades, the Illinois Swimming Officials Association (ISOA) has supported competitive swimming by preparing knowledgeable, consistent, and dedicated officials. What began as a small group of officials has grown into a statewide community committed to excellence in officiating.
Throughout our history, Illinois Swimming Officials Association members have helped officiate thousands of competitions while maintaining the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and athlete safety.
Our Mission
Our mission is to develop knowledgeable, confident, and ethical swimming officials through education, mentorship, and community. We believe that well-trained officials create a better experience for every athlete and help preserve the integrity of competitive swimming.
50+ Years
Supporting swimming officials across Illinois
One Community
Dedicated to fairness, education, and excellence
Learning & Development
Support at Every Meet
Once you are certified, Illinois Swimming Officials Association provides resources, mentorship, and community to help you hone your craft. Through online videos and in-person events, our members gain the practical insights needed to apply rules consistently and authoritatively.
Great officiating starts with great preparation — and Illinois Swimming Officials Association is here to elevate your skills at every step.
Rulebook Mastery
Year-Round Support
External Organizations & Affiliations
Working Together to Support Competitive Swimming
The Illinois Swimming Officials Association works closely with organizations that promote athlete development, safe competition, and consistent officiating standards. These partnerships provide officials with training opportunities, rule updates, certification resources, and access to the broader swimming community.
Explore the organizations below to learn more about the programs and resources that support competitive swimming throughout Illinois and the US.
Illinois High School Association (IHSA)
The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) is a private, not-for-profit organization with more than 800 member high schools in Illinois. The purpose of the IHSA is to provide leadership for the development, supervision and promotion of good sportsmanship in interscholastic competition and other activities. Participation in such interscholastic activities offers eligible students experiences in an educational setting which provide enrichment to the educational experience. The IHSA is a charter member of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS).
National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS)
The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) is the national leader and advocate for high school athletics as well as fine and performing arts programs. There are 51 member state associations (including Washington, D.C.).
The NFHS writes playing rules for high school sports and provides guidance on a multitude of national issues. They offer online education courses for high school coaches, officials, students, parents, and leaders through the NFHS Learning Center.
Illinois Swimming and Diving Association (ISDA)
The Illinois Swimming and Diving Association (ISDA) promotes Illinois high school swimming and diving through recognition of coaching and athletic excellence. They also offer opportunities for collaboration within the aquatic community.
