2015-20162015-2016REVIEW & UPDATE FOR REVIEW & UPDATE FOR

CONTINUING EDUCATION CONTINUING EDUCATION for for

USSA ALPINE OFFICIALSUSSA ALPINE OFFICIALS

2015-2016 2015-2016 Review & Update Review & Update

for for Continuing Education – Continuing Education –

AlpineAlpineThis presentation contains excerpts from paper copy of the above document.

Please review the paper copy and applicable rule books for additional information.

RULESRULES• USSA’S competition regulations for domestic alpine ski racing are

adopted from the FIS ICR, but are specific to USSA competitions

• USSA Alpine Competition Regulations (ACR) are updated annually, is published in the current Alpine Competition Guide and are available at www.ussa.org

• FIS Competition Rules (ICR) have been updated and are available on the FIS website. USSA website provides a link to the FIS website.

ADDITIONAL RULE BOOKS

• COURSE SPECIFICATIONS: Refer to current editions of USSA ACR and FIS ICR for minimum/maximum vertical drop and gate count requirements for USSA and FIS events

• COMPETITION EQUIPMENT: Refer to current “FIS and USSA Equipment Regulations for Season 2015-2016” and/or current edition of FIS Specifications for Competition Equipment.

 • NOR-AM CUP AND WORLD CUP RULES: Rules have been

revised; please refer to current rule books.

APPLICATION OF RULES• For all events scheduled by USSA as USSA non-FIS events,

applicable USSA rules should be considered and applied (ACR)

• For all events scheduled by USSA as FIS events, applicable rules of the FIS should be considered and applied (ICR)

• In cases that are not addressed by the ACR for USSA events or by the ICR for FIS events, or in cases where the rules must be interpreted, the authority for making such decisions will rest with the Competition Jury – all decisions must be documented!

QUESTIONS NOT COVERED BY RULES• The Jury makes decisions on all questions not covered by the rules!

[601.4.7]

• These decisions must be documented in Jury Minutes

• The Jury Minutes must indicate Jury members’ votes

• The Jury Minutes must be signed

OFFICIALS’ RESPONSIBILITYIt is the responsibility of every official, coach and competitor to know, understand and abide by the rules for the sport. These rules include, but are not limited to, current editions and “Precisions” of:

-FIS ICR

-USSA ACR

-Supplemental rules, such as Equipment Specifications, Rules of the FIS Points, Rules for the Alpine Continental Cups, etc.

Coaches, Program Directors and other club officers are encouraged to provide the time and opportunity to instruct their athletes on the rules for the sport.

REVIEW OF PAST RULES AND REVIEW OF PAST RULES AND PROCEDURESPROCEDURES

USSA’S CONCUSSION POLICY• USSA’s Concussion Policy has changed. When any USSA athlete – including those with the General and Short

Term Athlete memberships – is suspected of having sustained a concussion, the athlete - must be removed immediately from participation in USSA sporting events (e.g. sanctioned training, practice,

camps, competitions or tryouts)- will be prohibited from further participation until evaluated and cleared in writing to resume participation in

USSA sporting events by a qualified health care provider trained in the evaluation and management of concussive head injuries

- USSA Competition Services must be informed of injury and removal from training, etc.- Medical clearance to resume participation must be provided to USSA Competition Services in order to be

permitted to participate in USSA sporting events, etc.

- USSA member-athletes will be listed on “Medical Hold” until cleared to return to participation*

• If necessary, medical clearance can be presented to and accepted by an on-site Jury.

• For athletes under the age of 18, the “Concussion Medical Evaluation Form” requesting a return to training/competition must be signed by respective athlete’s parent/legal guardian.

• Many states have enacted head injury laws that may include additional requirements or restrictions. Please review the law for your state and, if required, contact USSA for direction.

• *Foreign athletes without USSA “X” memberships cannot be placed on USSA’s Medical Hold list

• Additional USSA Concussion Policy information is available at the following website:

http://ussa.org/alpine-programs/athletes/resources/concussion-policy

TEAM CAPTAINS’ MEETINGS

• An actual meeting, attended in person by Team Captains, Jury, and race officials is an inseparable and mandatory part of the competition

• It is important for communication of Jury instructions, support of the OC (Organizing Committee), as well as conveying OC requests and information. 

• It is also a critical element for risk management and liability-related matters. (Refer to 621.8, 604.3)

COURSE SETS • Jury must inspect course set and installation of on-hill competitor

security measures• Team Captains are encouraged to attend Jury’s course inspection• Course and on-hill competitor security measure inspection must be

documented• Necessary changes to course sets and on-hill competitor security

measures are the responsibility of the Jury• In case of necessary changes, such as small relocation of gates, an

additional inspection or training run is not necessary. Details must be communicated to all Team Captains and competitors at the Start by the Start Referee

REQUIRED JURY MINUTES• Review and approval of the Event Medical Plan must be

documented• Inspection of the course set and on-hill competitor security

measures must be documented• Approval of the daily Program must be documented• Decisions on Protests must be documented• Decisions on Sanctions must be documented• All individuals present at Jury meetings must be listed; e.g.

protesting party, DSQ athlete, witnesses• Other decisions are documented at the direction of the Technical

Delegate

HOMOLOGATED TIMING DEVICES

Required for:•All USSA non-FIS scored events•All USSA non-scored events•All FIS events

Updated list of homologated equipment is available at

http://data.fis-ski.com/alpine-skiing/timing-and-dta.html

GATE PANELS

All USSA GS, SG and DH (including Masters Competitions) must use gate panels that conform to current USSA/FIS specifications

A list of homologated panels is published on the FIS website.

FLEX POLESAll USSA FIS and USSA scored events must use homologated flex poles.•All poles on a course must be of uniform height and diameter.•For USSA scored Slalom events, women should use FIS type B (27 mm recommended) poles and men can use FIS type A or FIS type B (27 mm recommended) poles•For U16 Slalom event, poles must be full length, 180 cm; women should use FIS type B (27 mm recommended) poles and men can use FIS type A or FIS type B (27 mm recommended) poles.•Slalom poles for U14 and younger must be uniform in height with a height of 60 inches off the snow with a 27 mm diameter. This applies to events that are exclusive to U14 and younger; it is not applicable to mixed age races which include athletes U14 and older. Stubby poles will be allowed.•In Giant Slalom, Super G and Downhill, poles should be full height for all age groups and genders. U14 and younger should use 27 mm poles.•FIS type B poles are 25-28.9 mm in diameter and FIS type A poles are 29-32 mm in diameter.

USSA MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS• USSA-SANCTIONED NON-FIS EVENTS: Jury members, Jury Advisors (Start & Finish Referees), Chief of

Course and Course Setters are required to be current members of USSA as a Coach or Official. Competitors are required to have an appropriate competitor’s USSA membership. Forerunners must have appropriate and current USSA membership: Competitor, Masters, USSA General or Short Term Membership. Qualified members of foreign federations recognized by FIS must hold a valid USSA membership in order to take part in any capacity at a USSA-sanctioned non-FIS event.

• COACHES’ USSA MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENT: Except in specific instances where an event has been pre-approved, all coaches must have a current Coach membership in order to participate in any capacity at a USSA-sanctioned event; e.g. on-hill coaching.

• USSA-SANCTIONED FIS EVENTS: With the exception of the Chief of Race who must be a member of the organizing National Ski Association (601.4.2.4), Jury members, Jury Advisors (Start & Finish Referees), Chief of Course and Course Setters are required to be current members of USSA as a Coach or Official or must be qualified members of foreign federations recognized by FIS. If a foreign FIS Federation lists a foreign coach on their entry form, the Federation is certifying that the coach has the knowledge and ability to fulfill the duties of a Team Captain: e.g. serve as a Jury member or set a course; this satisfies the “qualified member of foreign federation” requirement for FIS events.

• Competitors are required to be FIS inscribed. Age-eligible current USSA members who are not FIS inscribed and who are serving as forerunners must sign the “FIS Athlete’s Declaration”.

EXCEPTION: CAN-AM EVENTS• A limited number of USSA non-FIS events – designated as

“CAN-AM’S”, allow a set number of Canadian competitors to compete without first obtaining a USSA competitor’s membership

• The coaches accompanying the Canadian competitors may function in the capacity of their team’s coach without obtaining a USSA Coach/Official membership

• The exception does not allow these coaches or any other non-USSA member to serve as Jury members or Course Setters at these non-FIS events

“PENDING” MEMBERSHIPS

If a USSA Coach or Official member’s membership status on the USSA website is “PENDING”, this is an indication that the member has not completed membership requirements, e.g. required background screening and/or “Fast Start Coaching Course”, and they must not be appointed to serve as:

- Jury members

- Jury Advisors

- Chief of Course

- Course Setter(s)

MASTERS EVENT MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS• USSA Alpine Competitors and USSA Alpine Coach members, who are 18 years of

age or older, may contact the USSA Membership Department and add a free Masters Membership and participate in Masters Competitions.

• All competitors in Masters Regional and National Championships must have a USSA Masters membership.

• Masters FIS competitions require that the athletes have the appropriate membership: A USSA Alpine Masters Membership and Alpine Masters FIS registration.

• Complete rules on membership requirements in USSA Masters events can be found in current editions of the Masters Competition Guide, Chapter 3: “"General Competition Rules”; and the Alpine Competition Guide, Chapter 5: “Masters Ski Racing”.

* Please note USSA Divisions/Regions may assess additional membership fees.

CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS –ALL USSA-SANCTIONED EVENTS• Referee, Assistant Referee and Course Setter(s) must be USSA-certified Referees (RF) for all

USSA-sanctioned events – scored or non-scored

• Jury Advisors (Start/Finish Referees) for USSA-sanctioned scored events must be a certified Jury Advisor (JA), Referee (RF) or Chief of Race (CR), for USSA-sanctioned scored events

• Jury Advisors (Start and Finish Referee) should be a certified Jury Advisor (JA), Referee (RF) or Chief of Race (CR), for USSA-sanctioned non-scored events. When online Competition Official certification becomes available, Jury Advisors at non-scored events must be – at minimum – certified Competition Officials.

• For USSA-sanctioned FIS events, when a foreign FIS Federation lists a foreign coach on their entry form, that Federation is certifying that the coach has the knowledge and ability to fulfill the duties of a Team Captain: e.g. serve as a Jury member or set a course

• In order to serve as a Chief of Race (CR) at a scored event (USSA or FIS), an individual must be, at a minimum, certified as a Level 1 Chief of Race (CR), Referee (RF), or Technical Delegate (TD)

• Other “senior officials” must be USSA members and be appropriately certified for the position; e.g. Technical Delegate, Chief of Course, Chief of Timing & Calculations, Race Administrator

NOTE : AO CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTSUSSA Schedule Agreement requires that Jury members, Course Setters, Chief of Timing & Calculations and other “senior” officials be appropriately certified USSA members. “Senior” is accepted as meaning any official whose name appears on an official document, any official who signs an official document, or any official who supervises an integral part of the event.

Alpine Officials’ Certification is a benefit associated with membership. This Certification is not automatically achieved upon registration as a USSA Official or Coach/Official; it must be earned by attending a USSA-approved Alpine Officials’ Clinic and passing an applicable exam, if required.

Attendance at an AO Clinic and passing an exam still requires registration as a USSA Official or Coach/Official in order for earned certification to be valid.

ONLINE CERTIFICATION: Competition Official

Competition Official (CO) is a pre-requisite for all specialty-area certifications. A process that will allow online certification is being developed. When Competition Official (CO) membership is available, •Jury Advisors (Start & Finish Referee) at USSA non-scored events must be – at a minimum – certified Competition Officials. •The current requirement that they “should” be certified as a Jury Advisor (JA), Referee (RF) or Chief of Race (CR) will remain in place.

Special note of appreciation to the task force led by Roger Root and Dan Chayes for undertaking this challenging assignment!

EXCEPTIONAL ATHLETES• The USSA Alpine Competition Exceptional Athlete “Ski Up” Assumption of

Risk, Release and Indemnity Agreement allows exceptional athletes to ski up one class; it is not accepted by all USSA Regions/Divisions.

• The Agreement authorizes the athlete to compete in an age group competition with a class of competitors which are older than the age group designated by USSA, but only in the events in which they are normally eligible and only in the specific competitions authorized by the USSA National Development Director.

• When an entry that is accompanied by an approved Ski Up Agreement is accepted, the Race Administrator/Data Manager must manually edit the athlete’s class so it agrees with the age class in which they are actually competing.

• Skiing up is not recognized for FIS events.

TRAVEL LETTERS• Only National Ski Associations are entitled to make entries for

international competitions.

• If a National Ski Association issues an entry authorization (travel) letter, USSA allows non-USSA athletes training with USSA clubs or attending USA schools/colleges/universities to be entered by their coaches.

• Every non-USA athlete’s authorization letter must be submitted to alpinedomestic@ussa.org; it must also be sent to the Regional Manager for the Region where the athlete is training.

• Letters must be submitted directly by the respective National Ski Association; will not be accepted if forwarded by coach or athlete.

COMPETITION EQUIPMENT• Equipment is the responsibility of the athlete and in the case of a minor,

their parents or guardians. • Equipment must be maintained and utilized in accordance with

manufacturer’s instructions. • Protests against equipment at a USSA non-FIS event must be handled

in accordance with current USSA Equipment Control/Protest Guidelines (available in the “Master Packet of Forms).

• Protests against equipment at a FIS event must be handled in accordance with current FIS rules.

Equipment violations are subject to disqualification and other sanctions as determined by the Jury. Sanction may be against the individual competitor, or the competitor’s coach if it is determined that he/she is complicit in the use of equipment known to be in violation of the rules.

EQUIPMENT CONTROL: USSA non-FIS Events• Skis must be marked by the manufacture with both the length and the radius. Unmarked skis will

be grounds for disqualification.• USSA scored alpine events, competition equipment will be subject to unannounced control.• USSA non-scored technical events (GS and SL), equipment control will be dealt with only on a

protest basis.• In the case of all speed events (SG and DH, scored and non-scored) where the Jury has allowed

control of equipment at the start for compliance, the athlete will not be allowed to start if their equipment does not meet the current marked specifications.

• Unless clear violation of equipment rules exists, e.g. no helmet, attached helmet camera, missing or broken ski brakes, GS skis in a SG, etc., the Start Referee must not refuse an athlete’s right to start. An athlete in a USSA non-FIS event is also allowed to personalize their helmet with the application of bling, stickers, helmet camera mount, etc.

• The Start and Finish Referees’ responsibility to monitor equipment and communicate to the Jury is critical in this process and should be reviewed by the TD at each event. TD instructions to these individuals must be clear. It is essential that the Start and Finish Referee communicate with and report their findings to the competition Jury.

EQUIPMENT PROTESTS:• The athlete must compete or intend to compete on the suspect equipment.• The Coach or Team Captain who observes the equipment that is suspect must alert the Start

Referee of his imminent intention to protest the equipment being used by that competitor.• The Coach or Team Captain must formalize the protest, at the end of the run, with the written

protest and the $100 (one hundred USD) protest fee.• If the athlete has started, the Start Referee alerts the Finish Referee and the Jury, that there is a

pending protest against equipment. The equipment must be evaluated or confiscated for evaluation when the competitor arrives in the finish.

• Finish Referee should stop the competitor with suspect equipment and confiscate the suspect equipment pending the filing of the formal protest and Jury review. Confiscation should be witnessed and third-party access to the confiscated equipment must be avoided.

• Equipment protests cannot be considered or accepted if the suspect equipment has left the finish area.

EQUIPMENT PROTESTS/TESTING• If approved testing devices are available, or compliance can be confirmed through

checking the manufacturer’s marks, the Jury will then evaluate the equipment and render a decision regarding the equipment. The decision of the Jury shall be final.

• If approved testing devices are not available, or the Jury is unable to reach a consensus, the Jury must seal and ship the equipment to the USSA National Office for evaluation. USSA’s decision shall be final.

• The Jury will use the $100 (one hundred USD) protest fee to cover the initial shipping costs. The losing party will be charged by USSA for all expenses related to shipping and testing. Reimbursement must be submitted within 10 (ten) working days of notice of USSA’s decision.

Acceptable equipment control devices for USSA non-FIS event alpine equipment evaluation include:•Reliable Racing stand height calipers•FIS-approved equipment-testing devices

EQUIPMENT CONTROL: FIS Events• FIS event on-site equipment control may only be conducted by a FIS

measurement expert using official FIS measuring tools• Skis must be clearly marked with both the length and the radius.

Unmarked skis will be grounds for disqualification• In the case of a speed event (SG & DH) where the jury has allowed

inspection of equipment at the start for compliance, the athlete will not be allowed to start if their equipment does not meet the current marked specifications

• Unless clear violation of equipment rules exists, e.g. no helmet, attached helmet camera or helmet camera mount, missing or broken ski brakes, GS skis in a SG, etc., the Start Referee must not refuse an athlete’s right to start

EQUIPMENT PROTESTS: FIS Events

• If protest is involved, Team Captain must notify Start Referee of intention to file a protest

• Start Referee notifies Jury and Finish Referee of protest or, if no protest is filed, of suspect equipment

• Protesting Team Captain must file written protest and pay applicable protest fee prior to Jury meeting

• Finish Referee confiscates equipment before it leaves finish area• Third-party access to protested/suspect equipment must be avoided• Equipment must be confiscated in front of witnesses and must be shipped

(sealed) to FIS• Losing party pays all costs

COMPETITORS’ PROTECTIVE MEASURES • With exception of forearm protection used in SG, GS and SL and

shin protection used in SL, body protection must be worn under the suit

• This includes knee braces

• If a knee brace is worn over the suit, it must be covered with fabric, e.g. a piece of an old suit

VALID & FALSE STARTS [613.7, 805.3-.4]• Early/late start violation occurs when a competitor is in the start gate

and does not start within the required time period with respect to the start command – “GO”!

• Course workers and officials must have a reasonable expectation of when a competitor may be approaching their position.

• Competitors who either start early or late can minimize this expectation and potentially create an unsecure environment.

• For these reasons, early/late start violations require DSQ. • The “no advantage/no DSQ rule [223.3.3] is not applicable; it is

only applicable when “rules state otherwise”. • Athletes who start early/late jeopardize the security of persons

[629.2]. This rule and rules 613.7 and 805.4 clearly mandate DSQ.

DELAYED START [613.6, 805.3.1]

• A “delayed” competitor is one who is not present in the start area or who is not ready to step into the start gate when called.

• In cases of force majeure (occurrences beyond the control of the athlete), the Start Referee may permit the delay inserted in the normal starting order.

• In cases of doubt he may allow a provisional start inserted in the normal starting order.

• Delayed starts that are not due to force majeure require SANCTION which may or may not include DSQ.

PROVISIONAL STARTS & RERUNSWhen making a determination on the validity of a provisional rerun, the Jury must evaluate the following, many of which are included in the very clear provisions of 623:– Did the competitor cross the finish line? Possible Exception: Obstruction occurred in close

proximity to the finish line and the competitor’s racing speed did not allow sufficient time for the competitor to avoid crossing the finish line.

– Does the claimed obstruction meet the requirements of 623.2 – Grounds for Interference?– Did the claimed obstruction cause significant loss of speed or lengthening of the racing

line and consequently affect the competitor’s time?– Did the competitor commit a fault prior to the obstruction or interference? [628.7]– Did competitor stop immediately after the obstruction or interference occurred and report

the incident to the nearest Gate Judge or Jury member?– Only the Jury can authorize a provisional start or validate a provisional run– If approved, remains valid even if it proves slower than the obstructed run.RERUNS REQUIRED BY BROKEN GATES: Every case must be checked individually; the Jury on site is the only group that can decide, based on the particular and detailed circumstances, if interference occurred.

LOSS OF ONE SKI & CROSSING FINISH: FIS• LOSS OF ONE SKI: If a competitor loses a ski without having

committed a gate fault or without coming to a complete stop, he may continue as long as he does not interfere with the run of the next competitor or has not been passed by the next competitor. [614.2.4] If the competitor violates these provisions, penalty may be assessed. [628.8]

• CROSSING THE FINISH LINE: The Finish Line must be crossed:- On both skis or- On one ski or- With both feet in case of a fall between the last gate and the

finish line. In this case, the time is taken when any part of the competitor’s body stops the timekeeping system. [615.3]

SECOND RUN ALLOWANCE: DNS, DNF or DSQ• In a two-run non-scored event, first-run competitors who are DNS,

DNF or DSQ should be allowed to take a second run at the end of the field. [U621.11.3.2]; notice should be given no later than the Team Captains’ Meeting.

• In a two-run non-scored event where each run counts individually, first-run DNS, DNF or DSQ competitors are allowed to start the second run in their originally scheduled start position.

• In a two-run scored event, first run DNF or DSQ competitors should be allowed to start the second run at the end of the field in their original bib and their first-run starting order. [U621.11.3.1]; notice should be given no later than the Team Captains’ Meeting.

Suggested Procedure: Tracking 1st Run DNF, DSQ athletes in 2nd Run of Scored Event

The Chief of Timing & Calculations and the Race Administrator/Data Manager account for all competitors, and the USSA Technical Delegate Report requires documentation of these calculations.

For events where 1st- run DNF, DSQ athletes are allowed to start in the 2nd run, this can create a unique challenge.

Some Technical Delegates may instruct the Chief of Timing & Calculations to stop recording after all valid 2nd-run starters have completed their run.

This will result in an incomplete record of the event, so the following is suggested as an alternative procedure. 1. Start Referee notifies Timing when last valid 2nd-run starter has left the start 2. Chief of Timing & Calculations or assistant makes appropriate notations in the DNS and

DNF sections of the Report by the Referee 3. Report by the Referee will now concisely reflect how many actual 2nd-run DNS and DNF competitors are to be considered in calculation of “Finishers/Total Ranked on Result”.

This is a suggested method. Chief of Timing or assistant may use recording method of their choice; e.g.: End 2nd Run, Run 1 Racers, etc.

USSA PENALTY MANIPULATIONAny competitor, official or coach clearly involved in artificially affecting penalty points may be disqualified or sanctioned.

Research has culminated in a method to identify races where athletes score point improvements far beyond expectations. The following are five of the filters that will be used to identify these races.

• Point improvement greater than 95% confidence interval

• Low point racers (pace) finish 6 through 10

• Greater than 22% of the field scores a point improvement

• Performance discrepancies from early season versus spring race date

• Athletes never ski close (20 points) to the results earned in other races

Every scored event will be subject to these filters and events that meet criteria will be flagged for review by USSA Competition staff and the USSA Classification Working Group.

SPEED TRAINING – SUPER G & DOWNHILL: Event & XML Results • Official training forms an integral part of the competition

• Competitors are required to participate in the training• All qualified competitors entered for Downhill competition must

have been entered and drawn* in all official training runs • Downhill Competitors and Forerunners must participate in at least

one (1) timed training run • Special Downhill Training runs must not be staged. They do not

have USSA transmittal #’s and have NO INSURANCE!• Results in XML format must be submitted to USSA/FIS, as required

*“Drawn” is accepted as meaning “assigned a start number”. It does not mean “drawn in the first group”.) [704.1]

SPEED TRAINING: SUPER G & DOWNHILL Documentation Requirements all USSA EventsDocument Packet Contents sent to resultpackets@ussa.org

1) Transmittal (use as cover page)

2) Training Results (signed by TD)

3) Report by the Referee

4) Programs/Team Captains’ Meeting Minutes (signed by RA)

5) Jury Minutes (with record of votes/signatures)

6) Injury reports should be filed online or sent to Laurie Hamble lhamble@ussa.org daily with copies included in the document packet; follow procedures for suspected/reported concussions Timing & Data Technical Report (TDTR), if completed, remains with the OC. Report of the Technical Delegate is NOT required.

USSA RACE RESULT DOCUMENT PACKETSRace Result Document Packets are required for ALL USSA non-FIS events (scored and non-scored) and are submitted electronically to:

resultpackets@ussa.org

USSA transmittal number must be used as transmission booklet title and also as e-mail subject: alpha + 4 numbers (U0081)

One race file per transmission please!

Procedure for preparation and submittal more fully described in: - paper copy of “Review & Update – Continuing Education”

- “USSA Race Result Document Packets” located in the“Master Packet of Forms” on the USSA website

TDTR SUBMITTAL – USSA EVENTSA signed copy of this form for all non-FIS USSA-scored, as well as USSA non-scored Championship events, e.g. U14 Championships, Masters Championships, etc. must be submitted to the following, applicable region/division representative:•Alaska: Terry Sherwood alyeska_ski_club@yahoo.com

•Central: Gretchen Ransom gretch1099@msn.com

•East: Matt Howard easttdtr@gmail.com

•Far West: Lucy Schram lucy@fwskiing.org

•IMD: Tami Strong tami@sbsef.com

•Northern: Bob Petitt NorthernTDTR@gmail.com

•PNSA: PNSA Office tdtr@pnsa.org

•Rocky Mtn.: John Jett jjett@cjtiming.com

A copy of the calculation(s) required for Replacement Time(s) (EET) must accompany the TDTR submitted to the above region/division representatives.

USING FIS TDTR SOFTWARE: USSA EVENTS– The FIS TDTR software can be used to produce a paper

copy report, as required, for USSA non-FIS events.

– The software does accept a “National Race Code” which is used for a USSA Transmittal number (alpha character + 4 digit number); “Race Codex” is left blank and either “CHI – Children” or “JUN – Junior” category must be selected.

– The XML TDTR file must not be electronically submitted to USSA for non-FIS events as USSA is not currently set up to accept the timing report XML file.

– When used for USSA non-FIS events, this XML TDTR file must not be submitted to FIS

USSA COMPETITON USSA COMPETITON CONTINUING EDUCATION CONTINUING EDUCATION

UPDATE UPDATE 2015 - 2016 2015 - 2016

USSA MEMBERSHIP CHANGES• USSA membership renewal/registration has moved exclusively to an online process.

• Members can now carry 2 memberships for 1 fee, e.g. Alpine + Snowboard; Snowboard + Freestyle

• Family memberships are available

• USSA’s General Member replaces “Club Participant” and is designed for young athletes who are training with a club program and may be competing in non-USSA competitions. USSA Club Participant members are eligible to forerun but not to compete in sanctioned events.

• USSA competitor memberships are available for classes U10-, U12, U14, U16+, and Masters 18+.

– U10- category is comprised of U8 (ages 7 and younger) and U10 (ages 8 and 9)

– U16+ category is comprised of U19 (ages 16, 17 & 18); U21 (ages 19 & 20); Senior (age 21+).

• A new per-day membership category is available that allows members to try different events/disciplines without having to obtain full Competitor membership. Short Term memberships are available for:

– Short Term Youth U12 11 & under

– Short Term Athlete U14+ 12 & over

– Short Term Masters 18 & over

If you have any questions regarding the membership category appropriate for you, contact USSA’s Membership Department or your Region/Division USSA Alpine Office.

THE 3 INJURY REPORT FORMSAmerican Specialty First Report of Accident (ASI): All participants injured in any USSA event: FIS or non-FIS. Online filing is available and is preferred. The online form can be found at http://www.amerspec.com/ussa_cov/

FIS “Notice of Injury” (ISS): All reportable injuries at USSA-sanctioned FIS events must be reported on the FIS “Notice of Injury” form regardless of nationality of the injured party. DO NOT USE FOR NON-FIS EVENTS!

Technical Delegate’s Accident Report: Accidents that fit the “Guidelines for Serious Accident”, whether non-FIS or FIS, also require the additional filing of the Technical Delegate’s Accident Report.

If an injury fits the “Guidelines”, all 3 reports are required.

An insurance claim for secondary accident insurance for USSA members cannot begin unless an ASI First Report of Accident has been filed. Although foreign competitors are not eligible for secondary insurance, USSA’s insurers must be notified of any injury that may possibly result in a claim.

USSA non-FIS Eventsa) DO NOT use the FIS form for non-FIS events!b) If an injury occurs during official training or competition, the American Specialty First Report of Accident (ASI) must be filed.c) If the injury fits the “Guidelines for Serious Accident”, both the American Specialty First Report of Accident (ASI) and the Technical Delegate’s Accident Report are required.

FIS Events – All Participantsa) Regardless of national federation affiliation, if an injury occurs during official training

or competition to any participant at a FIS event, both the American Specialty First Report of Accident (ASI) and the FIS Notice of Injury (ISS) are required.

b) If the injury fits the “Guidelines for Serious Accident”, all three reports: ASI, FIS ISS and Technical Delegate’s Accident Report are required.

FOREIGN EVENT ENTRY• To compete in FIS competitions outside of the USA, FIS-inscribed

athletes are required to have a minimum of 120 USSA points in any event at the time of selection.

• The USSA Points List valid at the time of selection will determine will be used to determine eligibility;

• National quota procedure and criteria must be observed.

DUAL or PARALLEL EVENTS

• Dual or Parallel events can be staged using either Giant Slalom (GS) or Slalom (SL) format. Two or more competitors race simultaneously side by side down two or more courses with the winners advancing into “brackets” and elimination-type finals.

• Rules generally follow FIS ICR with USSA adaptations (“U” rules)• In addition to the “U” rules, it is also recommended that a suggested

format be included to give organizers and athletes a general idea of how the event should be run. This suggested format could be used – or not – based on divisional goals.

PARALLEL RULES

• Parallel events can be staged using either Giant Slalom (GS) or Slalom (SL). Winners of each run do not advance into “brackets” or elimination-type finals. Overall winner is decided either by fastest time on course (1- run format) or fastest combined time (2-run format).

• U801.1.5 & U901.1.5: Events may be conducted on parallel courses. For this type of event, course specifications for Parallel events should be used. ACR 1222. All other rules for GS/SL apply.

HELMETS: A Review Helmets are compulsory for all competitors and forerunners in all USSA and FIS alpine events. •Athletes & Forerunners without helmets – or wearing a helmet that does not meet requirements - must not be allowed to start!•Athletes with personalized helmets, e.g. bling, stickers, helmet mounts, etc., are allowed to start in USSA non-FIS events•Helmet-mounted cameras are not approved for use at USSA or FIS events. [606.4, 707, 807, 907, 1007] •Soft ear protection is only allowed in Slalom.•Helmet must have a smooth top surface; spoilers or edges that stick out are not permitted.•Protective features integral to the event being contested, such as chin guards on slalom helmets are permitted.

HELMETS: A Review of What’s NewHelmet rules require athletes U14 and older must use helmets that meet the new FIS standards for all USSA GS, SG and DH competitions.

U14 and older competitors whose helmets are not in compliance will not be allowed to start in these events.

• USSA EQUIPMENT MATRIX• COURSE SETTING SPECIFICATIONS• CHILDREN’S COURSE SETTING SPECIFICATIONS

Please refer to current Alpine Competition Guide or documents posted on the USSA website at:

http://alpine.usskiteam.com/alpine-programs/officials/rules

HOMOLOGATION FILES

USSA course homologation files are available on the USSA website.

Login is required:

User ID = homologation; Password = Allout2018!

http://media.ussa.org/Public/Athletics/CompServices/Homologation

EASTERN REGION CHANGE

Effective 2015-2016:

Eastern Region “States” will be referred to as “Divisions”.

WHY A TDTR

The USSA Timing Working Group has prepared a document that explains the reasoning behind the requirement for a “Timing Data Technical Report Form”.

“Why a TDTR” can be found in the updated “Master Packet of Forms” on the USSA website.

We are grateful for the volunteers who took the time to prepare this document!

NATIONAL HEAD TAX FAQ’S• National University Team athletes have been added to the list of USST members exempt from Head Tax.

• National Head Tax of $10.00 per starting competitor, per race per gender is due to USSA for all USSA Scored events, including collegiate events. Head Tax is paid for all first-run starts, including DSQ's and DNF’s. Head Tax is due within 30 days of the race date.

• All Competitors MUST be accounted for. U.S. Ski Team Members (A, B, C, D), USSA National University Team Members, U.S. Paralympic National Alpine Skiing Team Members and NAMED Foreign National Team Members ranked 350 or better in one of the events being contested are exempt from USSA Head Tax. In addition, Head Tax for athletes ranked 100 or better in one of the events being contested may also be waived regardless of their national team affiliation or national status. Exempt competitors MUST be listed on the “Head Tax Exemption Sheet” which can be found in the Master Packet of Forms.

• USSA - after automatically deducting USST athletes from the total number of starts - will calculate the amount of Head Tax due and provide a detailed account of expected amounts. This can be found under the Schedule Agreement area of the club login. A form showing the expected Head Tax for National, Regional and Divisional (not all Divisions have supplied Head Tax information for inclusion in the calculations) can be printed from that site and returned with required Head Tax payments. If USSA’s calculation shows a different amount due, the “Head Tax Exemption Sheet” must be included with payment.

HEAD TAX: USSA’S ONLINE RACE REGISTRATION• If an OC chooses to use USSA’s online race registration system, the OC

needs to login to the Schedule Agreement System using the club login to see their Head Tax owed and registration amount collected. Once agreement is reached, USSA will forward the entry fees to the OC.

• If a Region/Division that requires additional Head Tax has not supplied Head Tax information for inclusion in the calculations, payment of these amounts will be the responsibility of the OC and should be submitted as directed by your appropriate Region/Division. Verify procedure for your Region/Division.

• Event Organizers may choose, or be required, by Region/Division to waive entry fees for regional teams, etc., however USSA National Head Tax MUST still be paid for these competitors.

FIS COMPETITON FIS COMPETITON

CONTINUING EDUCATION CONTINUING EDUCATION UPDATE 2015 - 2016 UPDATE 2015 - 2016

EQUIPMENT RULES

• Regulations for helmets for GS, SG and DH are applicable without exception at all levels of FIS competition. [2.3.3]

• Competitors and forerunners at all other FIS alpine events are prohibited from using helmet cameras; camera mounts are also prohibited. This prohibition does not apply to properly credentialed FIS media, e.g. POV runners.

Please refer to current FIS and USSA Equipment Regulations for Season 2014-2015 and/or current edition of FIS Specifications for Competition Equipment.

ENTRIES AND DRAW

• The organizer must determine the final date of entry between 48 hours and 24 hours before the first Team Captains’ Meeting.

• A Team Captain may only make substitutions before the draw. [604.4.1, 604.4.2]

COMPETITION SUITS

For Downhill, Giant Slalom and Super G upper-level competitions (OWG, WSC, WC, COC, WJSC), competition suits must have a plomb or label attesting conformity with FIS specifications. [606.2.1]

ONLY NEW SUITS WILL HAVE THE LABEL; SUITS THAT ONLY HAVE A PLOMB ARE ACCEPTABLE.

HELMETS: Alterations or Modifications• The helmets shall be used without alteration or

modification, as certified by the manufacturer. • Furthermore, no additional element/equipment shall be

affixed on the surface of the helmet. This does not apply to National Association or sponsor stickers.

[6.2.4, FIS Specifications for Competition Equipment]

FIRST-YEAR FIS STARTS• First-year FIS athletes are no longer limited to 25 starts per season

in Giant Slalom and Slalom events• No restriction was in place for Alpine Combined, Super G or

Downhill events. [607.3]

DOUBLE ENTRIES

• If a competitor has started a competition, he cannot appear as DNS 1 in another competition on the same day, except for Downhill Training.

• If a competitor is entered into and drawn for Downhill Training and subsequently leaves this competition in order to participate in another Downhill competition, he will not be permitted to return to the first Downhill competition. [621.12]

NOT PERMITTED TO START: NPS

A competitor will not be permitted to start (NPS) in any FIS competition:•who violates the FIS rules in regard to the FIS Specifications for Competition Equipment [missing ski brakes, missing ski pole baskets, etc.) and Commercial Markings or •who does not wear a crash helmet that conforms to the FIS Specifications for Competition Equipment. [627, 627.2, 627.6]

DOWNHILL IN TWO RUNS

• Downhill races carried out in two runs must be identified as such in the FIS Calendar.

• In exceptional cases where carrying out the original Downhill is jeopardized (unfavorable snow or atmospheric conditions), the Jury is permitted to conduct the Downhill in two runs. [706.2.5, 706.2.6]

SINGLE POLE SLALOM: FIS Events

• Single Pole Slalom is permitted in all international FIS competitions. • With the exception for single pole, all Slalom rules of the ICR are

valid. [804, 804.1]

DUTIES OF THE FIS TECHNICAL DELEGATE: After the Race• Immediately after the event, the Technical Delegate oversees the electronic transmission of result

and Timing Report (TDTR) XML files and completes online his TD Report. He must also check that the results are correct on the FIS website. [601.4.9.3]

• Following successful transmission/online filing of the results and TDTR XML files and Technical Delegate Report, only the following additional documents are required.

- Jury Minutes related to protests and/or sanctions; signed with record of votes

- Injury Reports of Serious accidents will require filing of both forms.)

FIS Notice of Injury for minor injuries

Technical Delegate’s Accident Form (injuries that meet Guidelines for Serious Accidents)

• The above documents must be submitted in scanned/PDF/booklet format to

Julia Gerber gerber@fisski.com.

• For World Cup and Continental Cup events, copies are also sent to

Tatjana Luessy luessy@fisski.com.

The National Federation (USSA) is the repository for the complete official document packet.

MISCELLANEOUS• The name of the “Super Combined” event (1 run of speed/1 run of

Slalom), has been changed to “Alpine Combined” (AC). • The Chief of Timing & Calculations is responsible for the preparation

of the TDTR, providing a PDF copy for the Technical Delegate’s review/signature and for overseeing the electronic transmission of the TDTR XML file to FIS.

• Protests are submitted at the location designated on the official notice board or at a place announced at a Team Captains‘ Meeting.

• The Race Administrator ensures that the result XML file is available for transmission to FIS.

REVIEW OF NEW RULESREVIEW OF NEW RULES

RULE CHANGESRULE CHANGES

&&

CLARIFICATIONSCLARIFICATIONS

PLEASE REVIEW, as required1. USSA Concussion Policy2. Jury Minutes3. Homologated Timing, Gate Panels, Flex Poles4. USSA Membership Classifications & Requirements: Coaches & Officials5. Competition Equipment: USSA - Helmets, Cameras, Mounts, Bling6. Competition Equipment: FIS Helmets - Alterations/Modifications, Suits7. Valid/False Starts and Delayed Starts8. Second runs: DNS, DNF, DSQ [U621.11.3.1, U621.11.3.2]9. Speed Training Events, Results & Documentation10. TDTR Software & its requirements/use for FIS and non-FIS events 11. Parallel Duel Events / Parallel Events12. Injury Reporting Requirements13. Online Homologation Files14. FIS Double Entries15. Not Permitted to Start: “NPS”16. FIS Single Pole Slalom17. Additional FIS Documents to gerber@fisski.com18. Updated “Master Packet of Forms”

ALPINE OFFICIALS’ ALPINE OFFICIALS’ INFORMATIONINFORMATION

• ALPINE OFFICIALS’ MANUAL: Manual has been updated and is posted on the USSA website.

• CERTIFICATION GUIDELINES: Certification Guidelines are included in the “Master Packet of Forms”.

• MASTER PACKET OF FORMS: Due to the procedural changes for both USSA non-FIS and USSA FIS events, many forms have been updated. Please discard all old versions of forms and only use the forms included in the 2015-2016 “Master Packet of Forms” located on the USSA website

ADDITIONAL AO EDUCATION PRESENTATIONS

• “Introduction to Ski Racing (CO)”• “Gate Judges – The Most Important People on the Hill” (2015) • “Split Second 101 - Data Management of a Ski Race” • “Referee”• “Jury Minutes: A Guide for Preparation”• “Basic T & C” • “Race Points & Penalty”• “Replacement Time”• “TDTR”; Paper & Online • “Timing Workshop” • “Radio Protocol & Techniques”

All presentations are posted on the USSA website.

Our goal is to provide education that will result in events that are Our goal is to provide education that will result in events that are secure, consistent, fun and fair for all competitors: secure, consistent, fun and fair for all competitors:

YSL or Olympic-bound. YSL or Olympic-bound.

Thank you for your attendance and for your support of the Thank you for your attendance and for your support of the

United States Ski & Snowboard Association and its United States Ski & Snowboard Association and its

Alpine Officials’ Education Program.Alpine Officials’ Education Program.

A special thank you to Allen Church for his many years of service to A special thank you to Allen Church for his many years of service to the USSA and FIS Alpine Officials’ volunteer community; he has been the USSA and FIS Alpine Officials’ volunteer community; he has been

a valuable mentor and is a valued friend! a valuable mentor and is a valued friend! T. Hoessler, ChairT. Hoessler, Chair

USSA AOEWGUSSA AOEWG