CHSAA Approves New State Swimming Qualification Model
The Colorado committee adopts a top 40 ranking system for state tournament eligibility starting in 2027.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Swimming
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The CHSAA swimming and diving committee has voted to move away from traditional state qualifying times in favor of a top 40-ranked selection model. This change is intended to streamline postseason selection and standardize entry protocols across the state.
Why it matters
The shift aims to satisfy National Federation of State High School Associations guidelines regarding athlete qualification limits. By centralizing the selection process, the committee intends to enhance safety and provide clearer entry pathways for swimmers.
The new model limits tournament participation to the top 40 ranked athletes and relay teams per event. Additionally, all divers must now complete a full 11-dive event to qualify for the state tournament.
The players
CHSAA
The Colorado High School Activities Association is the governing body responsible for overseeing athletic and activity programs in Colorado schools.
National Federation of State High School Associations
The NFHS is the national organization that writes the rules and guidelines for high school sports across the United States.
The details
Coaches will be required to use a specific declaration portal to select their four active state entries if a program has more than four athletes in the top 40. The proposal also includes an expanded regular season, allowing teams to host official meets starting on the first Saturday of the season.
Timeline
February 2027: CHSAA Legislative Council will hold a final vote on the proposals.
2027-2028 school year: The new selection and roster standards are expected to take effect.
The Big Picture
The proposal aligns Colorado competitive swimming with National Federation of State High School Associations eligibility standards. This marks a departure from historic time-based thresholds to a more centralized, nationally standardized selection model.
Athletes now face a strict 40-person cap per event, meaning qualification depends on rankings rather than just hitting a standard time. Coaches must be prepared to manage rosters through the new declaration portal to ensure their top four swimmers occupy those active tournament slots.
The takeaway
Swimmers and coaches should prepare for a transition to a ranking-based qualification strategy that emphasizes season-long consistency. Programs should prioritize tracking rankings in the database to ensure their top performers secure state tournament spots.
What happens next
The CHSAA Legislative Council is scheduled to conduct a final vote on these swimming and diving proposals in February 2027.
Further reading
For more information on state athletic protocols, visit Colorado Swimming.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CHSAANow.
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