Working with athletes, coaches, judges, administrators and many experts Diane has touched the lives of thousands of artistic swimmers since she joined the sport almost 55 years ago. Diane has had an extensive career in artistic swimming, starting in Quebec as a swimmer and coach.
Her judging began in 1975 and culminated in reaching the “A” level for FINA. Over the many years she has officiated and evaluated at many competitions, both nationally and internationally. FINA recognized her special qualities and asked her to contribute articles for the FINA manuals and to run judging courses around the world. During this time, Diane sat on numerous committees in Ontario and Canada – National Team Trials Leader for 17 years, Officials Chair, Certification Leader, and a member of the International Judges sub-committee. Throughout these years Diane’s expertise led to her appointment as a FINA Evaluator has well as a highly sought out FINA Instructor. Her contributions to the FINA Artistic Swimming Manual are extensive and critical to the development of officials around the world.
Highlights of Diane’s Officiating Career Include:
2002 – Commonwealth Games,England,Judge
2008 – Junior World Championships, Russia, Head of Delegation & Judge
2009 – FINA World Aquatic Championships,Italy,Judge 2010 – FINA World Cup,China,Judge
2010 – Commonwealth Games,India,Judge
2011 – Pan Am Games,Mexico,Judge
2012 – Olympic Qualification Meet,England,Observer
2012 – Olympic Games,England,Judge
2014 – Junior World Championships,Finland, Judge
2015 – Pan Am Games,Toronto,Judge
2016 – Olympic Qualification Meet,Brazil,Judge
2019 – FINA World Aquatic Championships,South Korea,Judge
2020 – Olympic Qualification Meet,Australia,Judge
2022 – Junior World Championships,Quebec City,Evaluator
Being chosen to judge at the 2012 Olympic Games in London,England was the pinnacle of her judging career. An experience she shared with many officials in the province upon her return. In 2012 Diane was awarded the FINA Certificate of Merit and in 2017 was recognized within the country as the Aquatics Canada Official of the Year. Diane van der Pol was truly a role model for all officials. Her expertise and mentorship and most importantly her friendship are a legacy that will benefit officials throughout the world for many years to come.
We are honoured to choose such a well deserving candidate as Diane van der Pol to be one of this years Inductees on the OAS Wall of Honour.
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