A new chapter in diving officiating began in Zapopan, Mexico, as the World Aquatics Diving Technical Officials' Silver Level Course was completed from 15-17 July during the Copa Mexico 2026, a World Aquatics Diving Recognised Event.
World Aquatics has revamped its Technical Officials' Pathway, introducing a tiered structure that offers standardised training and certification across all six aquatic sports. Built around three core components – education, experience and evaluation – the enhanced framework takes a holistic approach to skill development and performance assessment, with the Bronze, Silver and Gold levels serving as benchmarks to assess and validate officials' capabilities and enable precise, merit-based appointments to World Aquatics events.
Courses are tailored to the specific needs of each sport, with participants gaining insight from highly experienced leaders and lecturers in their field. Further details can be found here.
The Silver Level course was led by Melanie Beck (GBR), a Lecturer and World Aquatics Diving Technical Committee Vice-Chairperson.
Noting her rewarding experience, she said: “Being able to collaborate with passionate people from around the world, share knowledge and continue learning from one another is something I will never take for granted. [I am] grateful for the opportunity, proud of what we achieved together, and looking forward to continuing to contribute to the development of our sport.”
Gordon Peterson (CAN), a Lecturer and World Aquatics Diving Technical Committee Member, who was working alongside Beck at the three-day in person event, said: “The inaugural Silver Course in Mexico brought together an enthusiastic group of passionate individuals committed to continuous improvement.
"The positive learning environment ensured that everyone involved – participants and facilitators alike – gained new insights to help them become even better officials"
The course welcomed Rommel Pacheco Marrufo, Director General of the National Commission for Physical Culture and Sport (CONADE) and a former diver, who greeted lecturers and participants while providing words of encouragement.
President of Aquatics Mexico Fernando Platas Álvarez was also present at the event.
Wing Hung Tsui (HKG), a participant on the course, said: “Attending this three-day course was exceptionally rewarding. The practical insights and depth of training provided are top-tier.
"I walked away with a whole new level of confidence and knowledge"
“For anyone serious about deepening diving judging, I highly recommend this course.”
Miguel Pablo Velazquez Dorgan (MEX) also reflected his experience and the quality of the programme: “The first-ever World Aquatics Diving Technical Officials’ Silver Level Course was an outstanding and highly valuable experience. It strengthened our understanding of rule interpretation, evaluation skills and World Aquatics high-performance standards. Gordon and Melanie delivered the course exceptionally well, and the opportunity to learn from their knowledge and experience was truly invaluable. What stood out most was their openness, patience, and collaborative approach. They encouraged discussion, welcomed feedback, and created an engaging learning environment where participants felt comfortable sharing experiences and perspectives.
"The real-life examples and discussions were especially impactful in bringing complex situations to life"
Kevin Hall (AUS) commented on the professionalism of the course: “Overall, the World Aquatics Diving Technical Officials’ Silver Level Course was a valuable learning experience. The course was professionally delivered and provided practical knowledge that strengthened my confidence and understanding as a diving technical official.”
The success of the inaugural Diving Technical Officials' Silver Level Course demonstrates World Aquatics’ commitment to providing all participants in the sport with development and education opportunities.