Dive Number / Code
Each dive is represented by a 3- or 4-digit code, sometimes followed by a letter. This code tells you the type, direction, and position of the dive.
Example: 103C
- • 1 = Forward group
- • 03 = 1½ somersaults
- • C = Tuck position
Dive Groups
Dives are categorized by direction and takeoff position:
Forward
Diver faces forward and rotates forward
Back
Diver stands backward and rotates backward
Reverse
Diver faces forward but rotates backward (also called "gainers")
Inward
Diver stands backward but rotates forward toward the board
Twist
Any dive that includes a twist during flight
Armstand
Handstand start (typically on platform diving)
Dive Positions
A – Straight
No bend at the waist or knees (hardest position)
B – Pike
Legs straight, bend at the waist
C – Tuck
Bent knees, drawn tightly to chest (easiest position)
D – Free
Used for twisting dives; allows any position
Degree of Difficulty (DD)
Every dive has a Degree of Difficulty rating, based on the number of somersaults, twists, and starting position. This number is multiplied by the judge scores to get the final score.
Example: A 103C dive may have a DD of 1.6
Final score = (Judges' total) × 1.6
Judges' Scores
Judges rate each dive on a scale of 0 to 10, using half-point increments.
For most events, 5–7 judges are used. The highest and lowest scores are dropped, and the remaining are added.
Scoring Formula
Final Score = (Sum of middle judge scores) × DD
Example: If dive scores are [6.5, 7.0, 6.0, 7.5, 6.5], drop highest (7.5) and lowest (6.0):
- • Add: 6.5 + 7.0 + 6.5 = 20.0
- • Multiply by DD (say 1.8): 20.0 × 1.8 = 36.0
Equipment & Facility
Springboard
1-meter and 3-meter flexible diving boards that bend with the diver's weight
Platform
Fixed diving platforms at various heights (5m, 7.5m, 10m)
Fulcrum
Adjustable pivot point on springboards that affects board flexibility and bounce
Rip Entry
A perfect entry with minimal splash, creating a “ripping” sound through the water
Technical Terms
Hurdle
The approach step sequence before takeoff on springboard diving
Save
When a diver recovers from a poor entry position to minimize splash
Lineup
Proper body alignment and extension during flight phase
Over/Under-rotation
Completing too much or too little rotation in a dive
Spot
Visual reference point divers use during rotation to maintain orientation
Judging Terms
Entry Angle
The angle at which a diver enters the water (vertical is ideal)
Splash
Water disturbance on entry - less splash indicates better technique
Rip
Minimal splash entry technique that creates a clean “ripping” sound
Competition Terms
Preliminary/Finals
Competition format with qualifying rounds followed by championship finals
Cut
The minimum score needed to advance to finals competition
Scratch
Withdrawing from competition or a specific event
No Dive (ND)
When a diver doesn't attempt their dive, resulting in zero points
11-Dive Competition
Voluntary (V)
Required dives with DD limits: First 5 dives (max 9.0 total DD), one from each group
Optional (O)
Choice dives: Remaining 6 dives with at least one from each of the 5 groups
V/O Distribution
11-dive pattern: Dives 1-5 (2V+3O), 6-8 (2V+1O), 9-11 (1V+2O)
Group Requirement
All 5 dive groups must be represented in the first 8 dives of 11-dive meets
Banned Dives
Removed from competition for safety:
- • 104A (Forward 2 Som Straight)
- • 304A (Reverse 2 Som Straight)
- • 402A (Inward 1 Som 1 Twist Straight)
Balk
A balk is when a diver begins but aborts a takeoff. A balk results in a 2-point deduction from each judge's score. A second balk results in a failed dive.
Failed Dive (DQ)
A dive is considered failed if:
- • The diver performs the wrong dive
- • Loses position or control mid-air
- • Lands on their back or belly
- • Does not attempt a takeoff
Dive Sheet
The list of all dives a diver will perform in a meet. It includes dive numbers, positions, DD values, and order of execution.
Questions?
Need help understanding specific rules or dive sheet requirements?