The 2024 Patriot League Championships has been a dramatic event with technical difficulties and a close team race between Navy and Army men. The meet was delayed by 30 minutes due to a dispute over an honest effort disqualification in the men’s 200 back. The Navy men were initially poised to outscore Army in the final tally, but Army took the lead after the 1650 race. One of the swimmers, Jake Douberly, was disqualified for the “honest effort” rule, leading to a significant point gap between the teams.
The start of the women’s 200 fly was also delayed as Navy disputed the disqualification, but the call held, and the meet continued. Navy had five athletes in the men’s 3-meter diving finals to Army’s three, but Army held a lead in the team standings. The 400 free relay was still to come, where Army held the top seed.
The situation at the 2024 Patriot League Championships is reminiscent of a similar incident at the 2021 Women’s Big Ten Championships. The 200 back and 200 fly is a tough double, but swimmers have had success with it in NCAA careers. However, the honest effort rule is a point of contention among swimmers and coaches.
The honest effort rule is subjective, and some believe that a disqualification in finals should be equal to getting last place in that final. The rule has been criticized for being vague and context-dependent. The 800 Free Relay disqualification was overturned due to a procedural error, adding to the controversy surrounding the rule. The 200 back and 200 fly double has been a topic of discussion among swimmers and coaches, with some expressing frustration over the lack of a clear definition for “honest effort.”
The 2024 Patriot League Championships had its share of challenges and controversies, but the meet ultimately concluded with Navy emerging as the winner. Despite the technical difficulties and disputes, the athletes showcased their talent and determination, making it an event to remember.
