Swimming: High-tech bodysuits banned by NFHS
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The brouhaha over high-tech bodysuits that made headlines at the recent World Swimming Championships in Rome has filtered down to the high school level.
The National Federation of State High School Associations announced today that high-tech swimsuits associated with record performances in recent years have been banned at the high school level, effective immdiately.
Swimmers will be limited to one swimsuit constructed of a woven/knit textile material that is permeable to air and water, constructed so as to not aid in buoyancy, and shall not contain zippers or other fastening systems. Additionally, the suit must be constructed so that the style/shape for males does not extend above the waist or below the top of the kneecap. For females, the suit shall not extend beyond the shoulders or below the top of the kneecap, and it shall not cover the neck.
‘The committee knew that in order to preserve the integrity, tradition and heritage of the sport, as well as protect and enhance the interscholastic swimming program, these new requirements were necessary to promote fair play and the educational values of high school and could not wait another year,’ Becky Oakes, NFHS assistant director and liaison to the swimming and diving rules committee, said in a statement.
--Ben Bolch