In 2017 CAL adopted the following rules (you can find this in Section 2: Differ from USA-S Rules of the 2025 Dual Meet Rules posted on the league website):

Backstroke: After passing the flags, the swimmer may turn past vertical to the breast. Optional single or simultaneous double arm pull is permitted. Before or after the completion of the optional arm pull, kicking and gliding is permitted. (rev. 3/2017)

The intent of this was to do away with the requirement for a continuous turning action, and with it, disqualifications for delays either initiating the arm pull, or initiating the turn. Although these are still infractions at USA Swimming sanctioned meets and are options on the DQ slips we use, stroke and turn judges should NOT be disqualifying swimmers for Delay Initiating Pull or Delay Initiating Turn.

As referees, our job is not to rubber stamp disqualifications. If you do receive a slip with either of these infractions marked, do not sign it, and please notify the judge making the call that this is not an infraction per CAL rules. I would also suggest you add this subject to your pre-meet officials breifing.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at any time.

Thanks,

Jonathan Fauth 

804-316-8318