What are some big names in diving?

Perhaps the most famous diver is four-time Olympic gold medalist Greg Louganis. Before retiring in 1988, he won 47 U.S. titles, was named SportsMan of the Year by the U.S. Olympic Committee, won the coveted AAU Sullivan Award in 1984 and was inducted into the Olympic Hall of Fame in 1985. Other divers in the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame are double/double gold medalist Pat McCormick, two-time gold medalist Sammy Lee and 1972 Olympic champion Micki King.

What clothing and equipment is needed to dive?

Really, all you need is a swimsuit, but it’s also nice to have a towel, athletic bag, warm-up, T-shirt, shorts and a chamois (small cloth to keep skin dry between dives).

Who do I contact about lessons or competitions?

The local registration chairperson can provide information about diving programs, lessons and competitions in your hometown. A list of local chairs is available at USADiving.org or by calling the national office. If you are new to diving, you may register as a “novice” through your Local Diving Association (LDA). LDAs handle all athlete registrations for novice, junior, senior and masters divers. Current annual membership fees include athlete accident insurance.

What is the cost of lessons and training?

The average cost of lessons is $40-60 per month for three to four months. If you choose to join a team, beginning training costs about $50-75 per month. Top competitive athletes pay coaching fees of approximately $150 per month.

How much practice time is involved in diving?

Beginners practice from one to one and a half hours, three times a week. Junior divers practice between 10-15 hours per week, while senior divers generally practice from 20 to 24 hours per week.

What about competitions?

Most clubs participate in at least six local meets per year. They are usually two-day competitions, with a minimal entry fee. Competitors must be registered with USA Diving to compete in sanctioned meets.

How is competition organized?

There are 41 USA Diving LDAs in the country. Within these LDAs are approximately 370 USA Diving registered clubs. Based on an athlete’s age and ability level, he/she may compete in junior novice or regular meets (with age group divisions between 10 and 18 years of age); senior (elite divers) or masters (21 and older who no longer compete in the senior division). Divers first compete in local association and regional competitions. The top finishers then progress to region and zone championships, where the highest qualifiers become eligible to attend the national championships. The U.S. national junior and senior teams are selected based on the results of the national championships and are able to represent the U.S. in competitions throughout the world. Special trials are held to select members of the biggest events, such as the Olympic Games. Divers must place well in the national championships to be eligible for these trials.