The NCAA Championship changes have sparked a heated debate among swimmers and coaches, with SwimSwam's survey revealing a clear divide in opinions. One of the most compelling findings is the overwhelming support for bringing back 'B' finals, with 91.9% of respondents strongly agreeing. This sentiment mirrors the CSCAA survey, where 91% of coaches backed the same idea. The idea of reinstating 'B' finals is a step in the right direction, but it's not without its challenges. Some respondents suggested moving 'B' finals to the beginning of the evening session, which gained significant support (45.9%), while others were neutral or unsure. This proposal raises a deeper question: how can we balance the needs of high-performance swimmers and team management while maintaining the integrity of the event? The survey also delves into the relay format, with a staggering 76.2% agreeing that all relays should be conducted in the same session. This shift could streamline the competition and provide a more cohesive experience for swimmers. However, opinions are split on returning to the prelims/finals format for relays, with 47% disagreeing. The qualifying process is another area of contention. While a majority supports providing multiple pathways to qualifying, including conference titles, there's a strong argument for maintaining a high bar for qualification. One respondent highlighted the importance of a reasonable shot at scoring at NCAAs, suggesting that time standards should be challenging but achievable. The survey also explores the idea of expanding scoring to the top 24 in each event, with 50% supporting this change. However, reduced roster sizes for the NCAA Championships received a strong negative response, with 77% disagreeing. The addition of stroke 50s to the event lineup gained support, with 53.4% in favor. One interesting perspective emerged regarding diving, with many respondents suggesting a move to the start of the competition, similar to the ACC Championship format. This shift could enhance viewer engagement and momentum. The survey also touches on the controversial topic of Last Chance Meets, with 44.3% disagreeing and wanting to keep them. This debate highlights the tension between providing opportunities and maintaining the integrity of the sport. In conclusion, the SwimSwam survey offers valuable insights into the NCAA Championship changes, revealing a complex web of opinions and perspectives. It's a reminder that any reforms must consider the diverse needs of swimmers, coaches, and fans, ensuring a fair and exciting competition.
