Rules
Poomsae Scores
Color Belt Division Scoring
Scoring of color belts, will be performed using a bracket system. Poomsae competitors will be placed in a bracket (similar to the one used for sparring), and will be run off against each other. The brackets will use the same bye system as used in sparring.
Judges will point to the competitor they feel is the winner of each round, and will not give competitors scores. This will help to speed up competition, and will eliminate ties in these divisions.
Black Belt Division Scoring
Black Belt division poomsae will be performed using a Repachage bracketing system. Poomsae competitors will be placed in a bracket (similar to the one used for sparring), and will be run off against each other. The brackets will use the same bye system as used in sparring.
Judges will point to the competitor they feel is the winner of each round, and will not give competitors scores
All judges will be judging the overall poomsae.
Sparring Rules
Traditional Point Sparring Competition Procedures
Each round will be timed for a maximum of 2 minutes.
Time runs continuously unless the Center Judge or corner judge indicates that time should be stopped.
If one competitor reaches 12 points before the end of the two minutes, or is ahead by 7 points, he/she will be the winner.
Ties will be determined by “sudden victory” - the first competitor to score a point will win. There is no time limit on “sudden victory.”
Points and warnings do not carry over into “sudden victory.” Overtime matches may be decided by penalty points.
Tag Team Point Sparring Requirements Each team will consist of:
3 Members of mixed/same gender
a. 8-10, 11-13, 14-17, 18 and older.
One alternate per team.
Each member must spar at least once.
The round will last 5 minutes.
You may tag out at any time.
Most points wins.
Single elimination.
Legal Target Areas
Points in Point Sparring competition are scored by hand or foot techniques only to legal target areas.
Hand Techniques
To the torso:
Any good clean technique with execution and retraction.
This area is restricted to the front of the body starting at the hip line and going up to the base of the throat, and from one end of the hogu (chest protector) to the other side of the hogu. A 3- inch width of the spine is NOT a legal striking area (even if the hogu wraps around the entire body). Striking techniques going towards or making contact with areas outside of this definition will be considered illegal.
Kicking Techniques
Kicking techniques may strike the torso (see above), the head and neck, excluding the throat. The sides and back of the neck are legal as are all areas of the head.
Face Contact
For child and adult divisions: There is absolutely no hand techniques to the head. Contact to the head is not required in order to score points with kicking techniques. If light controlled contact is made with kicking techniques to the head, competitors can be awarded points.
If a technique draws blood or rocks the head, it is considered excessive contact and a penalty point will be awarded to the defendant. If it happens a second time, the attacker will be disqualified. If a competitor starts to cry due to contact, the judges should determine if excessive contact was used and make the appropriate call.
Illegal Target Areas
Illegal target areas include any part of the body not described in the above definitions. The type of technique, striking or kicking, will determine which definition to use.
Illegal target areas include:
All areas below the belt. This includes side, front or back areas and applies to kicks or strikes. The back of the torso; a 3-inch width of the spine.
The throat.
The head (illegal for hands only)
While striking the arms and/or shoulders will not score a point, they are not illegal targets. Blind hand techniques are illegal techniques. A hand technique is considered “blind” if the attacker is not looking at the target at the time the technique is thrown. A spinning back fist would be an example of a “blind” hand technique. It is not considered a “blind” techniques if the attacker pivots or spins and is able to look at his opponent and snap the hand technique back.
How a Competitor Scores Points
Scoring points will be done by performing hand or foot techniques to the legal target areas, with varying criteria depending on the rank and division of the competitors.
Scoring Points for Color Belts & Black Belts: Competitors must make light to moderate contact on the chest protector of his opponent in order to score. Contact to the head is not required in order to score points. If light controlled contact is made with kicking techniques to the head, competitors can be awarded points. If a defender makes no attempt to block, dodge or duck a kicking technique, the attacker can score points. The judges must feel the defender offered no defense and the attacker exercised control when he/she executed the kicking technique.
The following techniques will score points:
Hand and foot techniques to the legal torso area will score 1 point. Legal hand techniques include only punches, backfists, hammerfists, ridgehands and knifehands. Spinning hand techniques are considered “blind” techniques. It is not considered a “blind” techniques if the attacker pivots or spins and is able to look at his opponent and snap the hand technique back. The attacker would be award the appropriate point.
All turning kicks to the body will receive 2 points.
Shin contact to the headgear does not constitute a point.
All kicks to the head will receive 3 points.
Signals Used for Point Calling
Corner and Center Judges use signals to indicate calls in a ring. The Center Judge will point to the proper competitor rather than raising a flag. A corner judge will use the flags as an indicator.
The calls are:
Point - raise the correct flag color (as well as pointing the flag toward the competitor who scored) and number of fingers corresponding to the number of points scored. This means the judge saw a technique touch a legal target area.
No Point - cross both forearms downward.
This means the judge saw a technique, but did not feel that it qualified as a point due to reasons such as, but not limited to:
The technique was not clean enough for the ranks of the competitors.
The technique was blocked by the other competitor.
The technique was not a proper technique (weak or poorly thrown).
The technique was thrown when the competitor was out-of-bounds.
No See – the back of both hands covers the eyes. This means the judge either did not see a technique thrown or was not in a position to judge whether the technique touched a legal target area.
Warning - wave the correct flag color down low in the direction of the competitor. This means the judge saw the competitor do something that was illegal. This includes, but is not limited to: The technique was going in the direction of an illegal target area (this would include fakes or feints).
The technique came close to or touched an illegal target area.
The technique used was illegal.
The competitor didn’t exercise sufficient control of the technique.
The competitor was running out of the ring to avoid being scored upon. The competitor was purposely falling to avoid being scored upon.
The competitor’s attitude/conduct was not of UWTA standards.
The competitor is delaying the match (slow return to mark, slow getting up, etc.). The competitor is receiving coaching from anyone.
Making a Call – Point
Any call for a point or an infraction must be visually seen. If a judge cannot visually see a point score or any type of infraction, he/she must call a “no see”. Hearing a strike or assuming a strike was made, is not allowed.
One or more of the three judges should clearly call out “BREAK!” to stop the action.
On direction of the Center Judge, each judge will indicate one of the four calls; “point”, “no point”, “no see” or “warning”.
The Center Judge and the corner judges are required to show their vote at the same time. When indicating a point for either color, the corner judge should raise AND point the appropriate flag and number of points awarded in the direction of the competitor they are calling for.
Points or penalties will be awarded according to the majority of judges who saw the technique. If a warning is called, it must be verified. See the next section on Warnings.
Confirming a Point
A majority call for a point will determine if a point is valid.
If two judges call different points for the same competitor (“Red-1” and “Red-2”) and the third judge calls “no see” or “no point”, the lowest point would be awarded.
A match will end when:
A competitor reaches 12 points first. A competitor is up by 7 points. A competitor is disqualified.
A competitor forfeits.
Warnings
The following procedures and guidelines are used in the calling of a warning:
If a judge sees an illegal technique or illegal action, that judge will call “BREAK” to stop the action.
The center judge will say “Judges...Score”. At this time the judge that called “break” will then wave the matching colored flag of the offender towards the ground in the direction of the competitor .
The Center Judge will look at the timekeeper and say “Stop Time!”
The Center Judge will say “Judges call of warning, call!” If a warning is determined, the appropriate penalty will be issued to the offender.
Awarding Points & Penalties at the Same Time
A competitor cannot be issued a warning and be awarded a point at the same time.
The following examples explain different situations involving warnings and penalties:
During the action, one judge saw “Red” punch towards “Blue’s” face, one judge saw “Red” kick towards “Blue’s” head and one judged called “no point”. The Center Judge calls for the judges to score. The Center Judge sees the call for a warning and stops time so the judges may confirm what was witnessed. After it is verified that “Red” punched toward an illegal target area (the face) and a warning is issued to “Red”. Since “Red” received a warning for the punch to the face, “Red” cannot receive other points.
If the judges score “Red-1”, “Red-1”, and “Red-warning”, the warning would override the majority that saw a point. In this situation “Red” would receive the appropriate penalty and no points awarded.
If two or more judges call a different warning for the same competitor, time would be stopped and the Center Judge would ask for the individual calls. The higher penalty will be given. The primary concern during a tournament is the safety of the competitors. Giving the higher penalty will encourage all competitors to be more cautious.
If one judge calls “Red-point”, a second judge calls “Blue-warning” and the third judge calls “No See”, the Center Judge will stop the time. The Center Judge will call for warning on “Blue” and give the appropriate penalty. The Center Judge will then call for points on “Red”.\
If a judge sees a point one competitor and a warning for the other at the same time, the judge will notify the Center Judge when instructed to score after a break (a corner judge can stop time if necessary). The Center Judge will stop time and call for the warning first, then award the appropriate penalty. The Center Judge will then call for points and award the appropriate points.
Contact/Non-Contact Penalties
Contact penalty rules are for the safety of competitors in their different divisions. The safety equipment is only effective in stopping cuts and bruises from accidental contact made with controlled technique; it will not protect against full-power attacks. Contact to certain areas that are not defined as legal, may not warrant a warning. Examples would include, but not limited to:
punches that hit the shoulder or kicks that make contact to the other competitor’s leg while that leg is in a kicking motion and would be considered above the hip line.
Non-contact infractions will receive a warning for the first infraction, a penalty point for second and disqualification for the third infraction. not limited to the following: Non-contact penalties include, but are
Running out of bounds to avoid the fight.
Falling down to avoid attack.
Delaying a match (getting up slow, returning slowly when break is called, etc.). Grabbing an opponent.
Striking or kicking (no contact) to an illegal target area
Coaching
Excessive Contact, Illegal Contact and Unsportsmanlike Conduct
Center referees should make sure that non-contact and contact infractions are scored separately, not together. These are two completely different infractions and are not to be combined.
Excessive contact or unsportsmanlike conduct should be a penalty point on the first offense. If the judges rule that the contact is too excessive or the conduct is unacceptable, the competitor can be disqualified on the first infraction.
Contact to an illegal target area the first time will results in a penalty point for his opponent. Contact to an illegal target area, excessive contact, or unacceptable conduct a second time will result in an automatic disqualification.
Remember that the purpose of this rule is to protect the competitors physically and mentally, even if it may seem harsh to disqualify a competitor with poor control.
During sparring competition, a competitor may be disqualified during the beginning rounds and be eliminated from competition. However, if the disqualification is during the last two rounds; he/she may still be able to compete. Please refer to the “Disqualification” section. Any disqualification is for that tournament only, not from future tournaments.
If a competitor is disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct after places are awarded, that competitor will forfeit his/her place. Other competitors will not move up in place if this occurs.
It is possible for a competitor to be disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct by his/her parent or fan in attendance.
No-Fault Rule
If a competitor throws a technique that is intended for a legal target area, but due to actions outside of his/her control, strikes (or comes close to) the opponent in an illegal target area, the competitor will not be penalized.
Example 1: A competitor throws a reverse punch towards his opponent’s chest. The opponent ducks down and is hit in the face, or blocks the punch up into his/her face. This would result in a no-fault call except in the case of excessive contact.
Example 2: A competitor throws a sidekick towards his opponent’s ribs. The opponent does a spinning hook kick at the same time and is kicked in the back. This would result in a no-fault call except in the case of excessive contact.
An important factor in determining if the no-fault rule should be exercised is if the competitor recognized what was about to happen and tried to further control the technique. This is not always possible, but would support the concept that the competitor is concerned about the safety of his/her opponent. It is also important to remember that this is a judgment call by the judges in the ring. Those judges will use their experience and the attitudes of the competitors as guidelines when using the no-fault rule.
Out of Bounds
Both competitors must be in bounds for a point to be scored.
A competitor is considered completely out of bounds when any part of the foot (or more) is touching the floor beyond the ring boundary. Judges should tap the floor if they see a competitor is out of bounds to help him/her realize his/her ring position.
Out of bounds penalties depend on whether the competitor was forced out of the ring or ran out to avoid an attack. If it becomes apparent that a competitor is running out of the ring to avoid attack or is not making adjustments to avoid being forced out of bounds, he/she should be given a non-contact warning.
Competitor’s Attitude
One of the most important tenants of Taekwondo is the concept of DISCIPLINE. While it is important to show the discipline of being a good loser, it is equally important to exhibit the discipline of being a good winner. UWTA Taekwondo students are known for their discipline, courtesy and respect.
Any kind of exhibition of disgust, frustration or dissatisfaction with the outcome of competition will not be tolerated. This includes leaving the ring or ring area before awards are given and the ring being formally dismissed.
Neither will over-exuberance with winning be allowed. Poor sportsmanship of any kind may result in warning, penalty points, disqualification, reverse decisions, loss of all or part of one’s accumulated top four points or being barred from future tournaments.
Reverse decisions can only be executed by the Tournament Director. Being banned from future tournaments can be recommended by the Regional Chief of Tournaments or the National Tournament Director.
Color Belt Division Scoring
Scoring of color belts, will be performed using a bracket system. Poomsae competitors will be placed in a bracket (similar to the one used for sparring), and will be run off against each other. The brackets will use the same bye system as used in sparring.
Judges will point to the competitor they feel is the winner of each round, and will not give competitors scores. This will help to speed up competition, and will eliminate ties in these divisions.
Black Belt Division Scoring
Black Belt division poomsae will be performed using a Repachage bracketing system. Poomsae competitors will be placed in a bracket (similar to the one used for sparring), and will be run off against each other. The brackets will use the same bye system as used in sparring.
Judges will point to the competitor they feel is the winner of each round, and will not give competitors scores
All judges will be judging the overall poomsae.
Sparring Rules
Traditional Point Sparring Competition Procedures
Each round will be timed for a maximum of 2 minutes.
Time runs continuously unless the Center Judge or corner judge indicates that time should be stopped.
If one competitor reaches 12 points before the end of the two minutes, or is ahead by 7 points, he/she will be the winner.
Ties will be determined by “sudden victory” - the first competitor to score a point will win. There is no time limit on “sudden victory.”
Points and warnings do not carry over into “sudden victory.” Overtime matches may be decided by penalty points.
Tag Team Point Sparring Requirements Each team will consist of:
3 Members of mixed/same gender
a. 8-10, 11-13, 14-17, 18 and older.
One alternate per team.
Each member must spar at least once.
The round will last 5 minutes.
You may tag out at any time.
Most points wins.
Single elimination.
Legal Target Areas
Points in Point Sparring competition are scored by hand or foot techniques only to legal target areas.
Hand Techniques
To the torso:
Any good clean technique with execution and retraction.
This area is restricted to the front of the body starting at the hip line and going up to the base of the throat, and from one end of the hogu (chest protector) to the other side of the hogu. A 3- inch width of the spine is NOT a legal striking area (even if the hogu wraps around the entire body). Striking techniques going towards or making contact with areas outside of this definition will be considered illegal.
Kicking Techniques
Kicking techniques may strike the torso (see above), the head and neck, excluding the throat. The sides and back of the neck are legal as are all areas of the head.
Face Contact
For child and adult divisions: There is absolutely no hand techniques to the head. Contact to the head is not required in order to score points with kicking techniques. If light controlled contact is made with kicking techniques to the head, competitors can be awarded points.
If a technique draws blood or rocks the head, it is considered excessive contact and a penalty point will be awarded to the defendant. If it happens a second time, the attacker will be disqualified. If a competitor starts to cry due to contact, the judges should determine if excessive contact was used and make the appropriate call.
Illegal Target Areas
Illegal target areas include any part of the body not described in the above definitions. The type of technique, striking or kicking, will determine which definition to use.
Illegal target areas include:
All areas below the belt. This includes side, front or back areas and applies to kicks or strikes. The back of the torso; a 3-inch width of the spine.
The throat.
The head (illegal for hands only)
While striking the arms and/or shoulders will not score a point, they are not illegal targets. Blind hand techniques are illegal techniques. A hand technique is considered “blind” if the attacker is not looking at the target at the time the technique is thrown. A spinning back fist would be an example of a “blind” hand technique. It is not considered a “blind” techniques if the attacker pivots or spins and is able to look at his opponent and snap the hand technique back.
How a Competitor Scores Points
Scoring points will be done by performing hand or foot techniques to the legal target areas, with varying criteria depending on the rank and division of the competitors.
Scoring Points for Color Belts & Black Belts: Competitors must make light to moderate contact on the chest protector of his opponent in order to score. Contact to the head is not required in order to score points. If light controlled contact is made with kicking techniques to the head, competitors can be awarded points. If a defender makes no attempt to block, dodge or duck a kicking technique, the attacker can score points. The judges must feel the defender offered no defense and the attacker exercised control when he/she executed the kicking technique.
The following techniques will score points:
Hand and foot techniques to the legal torso area will score 1 point. Legal hand techniques include only punches, backfists, hammerfists, ridgehands and knifehands. Spinning hand techniques are considered “blind” techniques. It is not considered a “blind” techniques if the attacker pivots or spins and is able to look at his opponent and snap the hand technique back. The attacker would be award the appropriate point.
All turning kicks to the body will receive 2 points.
Shin contact to the headgear does not constitute a point.
All kicks to the head will receive 3 points.
Signals Used for Point Calling
Corner and Center Judges use signals to indicate calls in a ring. The Center Judge will point to the proper competitor rather than raising a flag. A corner judge will use the flags as an indicator.
The calls are:
Point - raise the correct flag color (as well as pointing the flag toward the competitor who scored) and number of fingers corresponding to the number of points scored. This means the judge saw a technique touch a legal target area.
No Point - cross both forearms downward.
This means the judge saw a technique, but did not feel that it qualified as a point due to reasons such as, but not limited to:
The technique was not clean enough for the ranks of the competitors.
The technique was blocked by the other competitor.
The technique was not a proper technique (weak or poorly thrown).
The technique was thrown when the competitor was out-of-bounds.
No See – the back of both hands covers the eyes. This means the judge either did not see a technique thrown or was not in a position to judge whether the technique touched a legal target area.
Warning - wave the correct flag color down low in the direction of the competitor. This means the judge saw the competitor do something that was illegal. This includes, but is not limited to: The technique was going in the direction of an illegal target area (this would include fakes or feints).
The technique came close to or touched an illegal target area.
The technique used was illegal.
The competitor didn’t exercise sufficient control of the technique.
The competitor was running out of the ring to avoid being scored upon. The competitor was purposely falling to avoid being scored upon.
The competitor’s attitude/conduct was not of UWTA standards.
The competitor is delaying the match (slow return to mark, slow getting up, etc.). The competitor is receiving coaching from anyone.
Making a Call – Point
Any call for a point or an infraction must be visually seen. If a judge cannot visually see a point score or any type of infraction, he/she must call a “no see”. Hearing a strike or assuming a strike was made, is not allowed.
One or more of the three judges should clearly call out “BREAK!” to stop the action.
On direction of the Center Judge, each judge will indicate one of the four calls; “point”, “no point”, “no see” or “warning”.
The Center Judge and the corner judges are required to show their vote at the same time. When indicating a point for either color, the corner judge should raise AND point the appropriate flag and number of points awarded in the direction of the competitor they are calling for.
Points or penalties will be awarded according to the majority of judges who saw the technique. If a warning is called, it must be verified. See the next section on Warnings.
Confirming a Point
A majority call for a point will determine if a point is valid.
If two judges call different points for the same competitor (“Red-1” and “Red-2”) and the third judge calls “no see” or “no point”, the lowest point would be awarded.
A match will end when:
A competitor reaches 12 points first. A competitor is up by 7 points. A competitor is disqualified.
A competitor forfeits.
Warnings
The following procedures and guidelines are used in the calling of a warning:
If a judge sees an illegal technique or illegal action, that judge will call “BREAK” to stop the action.
The center judge will say “Judges...Score”. At this time the judge that called “break” will then wave the matching colored flag of the offender towards the ground in the direction of the competitor .
The Center Judge will look at the timekeeper and say “Stop Time!”
The Center Judge will say “Judges call of warning, call!” If a warning is determined, the appropriate penalty will be issued to the offender.
Awarding Points & Penalties at the Same Time
A competitor cannot be issued a warning and be awarded a point at the same time.
The following examples explain different situations involving warnings and penalties:
During the action, one judge saw “Red” punch towards “Blue’s” face, one judge saw “Red” kick towards “Blue’s” head and one judged called “no point”. The Center Judge calls for the judges to score. The Center Judge sees the call for a warning and stops time so the judges may confirm what was witnessed. After it is verified that “Red” punched toward an illegal target area (the face) and a warning is issued to “Red”. Since “Red” received a warning for the punch to the face, “Red” cannot receive other points.
If the judges score “Red-1”, “Red-1”, and “Red-warning”, the warning would override the majority that saw a point. In this situation “Red” would receive the appropriate penalty and no points awarded.
If two or more judges call a different warning for the same competitor, time would be stopped and the Center Judge would ask for the individual calls. The higher penalty will be given. The primary concern during a tournament is the safety of the competitors. Giving the higher penalty will encourage all competitors to be more cautious.
If one judge calls “Red-point”, a second judge calls “Blue-warning” and the third judge calls “No See”, the Center Judge will stop the time. The Center Judge will call for warning on “Blue” and give the appropriate penalty. The Center Judge will then call for points on “Red”.\
If a judge sees a point one competitor and a warning for the other at the same time, the judge will notify the Center Judge when instructed to score after a break (a corner judge can stop time if necessary). The Center Judge will stop time and call for the warning first, then award the appropriate penalty. The Center Judge will then call for points and award the appropriate points.
Contact/Non-Contact Penalties
Contact penalty rules are for the safety of competitors in their different divisions. The safety equipment is only effective in stopping cuts and bruises from accidental contact made with controlled technique; it will not protect against full-power attacks. Contact to certain areas that are not defined as legal, may not warrant a warning. Examples would include, but not limited to:
punches that hit the shoulder or kicks that make contact to the other competitor’s leg while that leg is in a kicking motion and would be considered above the hip line.
Non-contact infractions will receive a warning for the first infraction, a penalty point for second and disqualification for the third infraction. not limited to the following: Non-contact penalties include, but are
Running out of bounds to avoid the fight.
Falling down to avoid attack.
Delaying a match (getting up slow, returning slowly when break is called, etc.). Grabbing an opponent.
Striking or kicking (no contact) to an illegal target area
Coaching
Excessive Contact, Illegal Contact and Unsportsmanlike Conduct
Center referees should make sure that non-contact and contact infractions are scored separately, not together. These are two completely different infractions and are not to be combined.
Excessive contact or unsportsmanlike conduct should be a penalty point on the first offense. If the judges rule that the contact is too excessive or the conduct is unacceptable, the competitor can be disqualified on the first infraction.
Contact to an illegal target area the first time will results in a penalty point for his opponent. Contact to an illegal target area, excessive contact, or unacceptable conduct a second time will result in an automatic disqualification.
Remember that the purpose of this rule is to protect the competitors physically and mentally, even if it may seem harsh to disqualify a competitor with poor control.
During sparring competition, a competitor may be disqualified during the beginning rounds and be eliminated from competition. However, if the disqualification is during the last two rounds; he/she may still be able to compete. Please refer to the “Disqualification” section. Any disqualification is for that tournament only, not from future tournaments.
If a competitor is disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct after places are awarded, that competitor will forfeit his/her place. Other competitors will not move up in place if this occurs.
It is possible for a competitor to be disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct by his/her parent or fan in attendance.
No-Fault Rule
If a competitor throws a technique that is intended for a legal target area, but due to actions outside of his/her control, strikes (or comes close to) the opponent in an illegal target area, the competitor will not be penalized.
Example 1: A competitor throws a reverse punch towards his opponent’s chest. The opponent ducks down and is hit in the face, or blocks the punch up into his/her face. This would result in a no-fault call except in the case of excessive contact.
Example 2: A competitor throws a sidekick towards his opponent’s ribs. The opponent does a spinning hook kick at the same time and is kicked in the back. This would result in a no-fault call except in the case of excessive contact.
An important factor in determining if the no-fault rule should be exercised is if the competitor recognized what was about to happen and tried to further control the technique. This is not always possible, but would support the concept that the competitor is concerned about the safety of his/her opponent. It is also important to remember that this is a judgment call by the judges in the ring. Those judges will use their experience and the attitudes of the competitors as guidelines when using the no-fault rule.
Out of Bounds
Both competitors must be in bounds for a point to be scored.
A competitor is considered completely out of bounds when any part of the foot (or more) is touching the floor beyond the ring boundary. Judges should tap the floor if they see a competitor is out of bounds to help him/her realize his/her ring position.
Out of bounds penalties depend on whether the competitor was forced out of the ring or ran out to avoid an attack. If it becomes apparent that a competitor is running out of the ring to avoid attack or is not making adjustments to avoid being forced out of bounds, he/she should be given a non-contact warning.
Competitor’s Attitude
One of the most important tenants of Taekwondo is the concept of DISCIPLINE. While it is important to show the discipline of being a good loser, it is equally important to exhibit the discipline of being a good winner. UWTA Taekwondo students are known for their discipline, courtesy and respect.
Any kind of exhibition of disgust, frustration or dissatisfaction with the outcome of competition will not be tolerated. This includes leaving the ring or ring area before awards are given and the ring being formally dismissed.
Neither will over-exuberance with winning be allowed. Poor sportsmanship of any kind may result in warning, penalty points, disqualification, reverse decisions, loss of all or part of one’s accumulated top four points or being barred from future tournaments.
Reverse decisions can only be executed by the Tournament Director. Being banned from future tournaments can be recommended by the Regional Chief of Tournaments or the National Tournament Director.
Weapon Guidlines
WEAPONS COMPETITION
Prior to competition, it is the responsibility of the Center Judge to inspect and approve all weapons intended for competition.
Weapons - Judges Area of Responsibility
Black Belt division poomsae will be performed using a Repachage bracketing system. Poomsae competitors will be placed in a bracket (similar to the one used for sparring), and will be run off against each other. The brackets will use the same bye system as used in sparring.
One competitor at a time will perform their poomsae
Judges will point to the competitor they feel is the winner of each round, and will not give competitors scores
All judges will be judging the overall poomsae.
Breaking Guidelines
BOARD BREAKING COMPETITION
Scoring: Each competitor will only be allowed one attempt to break all stations. Board breaking competition will require three judges. Each judge will give a score ranging from 7.0 to 9.9. Scoring will be based on the degree of completion, difficulty, execution, and balance. Winners will be determined by the total number of points awarded by judges. In case of a tie, each competitor will be allowed one attempt on one breaking station.
Breaking Requirements
There are board breaking divisions for all ranks and ages. Divisions will be determined by age, rank, and number of competitors.
1 Station Minimum 3 Stations Max.
No more than 10 boards may be used
9 people max allowed to be holders or props
Guidelines for Boards
A. The tournament host will provide boards that can be purchased for competition. When competitors bring their own boards it creates confusion if their boards are different than boards provided at the tournament. Competitors will not be allowed to bring their own boards for competition.
B. Laminate (WTF) boards will be used by all child and adult divisions.
Board Holders: It is the responsibility of the competitor’s instructor to teach him all aspects of breaking competition, especially how to position holders and how he wants them to hold the boards. Judges may assist a competitor if it is necessary to expedite the competition or if the competitor asks for assistance. Judges should not try to make too many changes that would confuse a competitor or seriously contradict his instructor. If there is a safety issue, then the center referee should immediately intervene and consult with the corner judges. If necessary, the center referee should contact the appropriate tournament official.
When participating as a board holder, you should hold the board the way the competitor requests. It is the responsibility of the center referee to assist them, not you as a board holder. You should express a positive attitude, a willingness to help, and wish them success. You should never express a lack of confidence in the competitor and what they are trying to accomplish.
All board breaking stations will have two holders. This applies to all ranks and ages. The only exception will be for speed breaks.
C. Cost of Boards.
Small Board - $3 Each
Large Board - $5 Each
Rapid Kick Guidelines
RAPID KICK COMPETITION
Competitors will be placed in a bracket (similar to the one used for sparring), and will be run off against each other. The brackets will use the same bye system as used in sparring.
The competitors will kick for 15 Seconds. (White thru Green - Front Kick, Blue & Above - Round Kick). The competitor with the most successful target hits at the end of time will be declared the winner of that round.
Competitor Kicking Foot must return to ground before kicking again. You are not allowed to change legs during the 15 second round. You must make contact with target to be counted.
Resolving Ties
Ties are to be run off by method of Paper, Rock, Scissors.
Combat Weapons Sparring Procedures
Legal Target Areas
Points in combat weapons sparring competition are scored by striking or stabbing with the weapon to a legal target area using one of the combat weapons sparring techniques or by causing one’s opponent to drop his/her weapon.
The following guidelines apply:
Strikes with the weapon to a legal contact area will result in the following points with a maximum of 4 points given at only one time:
Parry, Block or Disarm Techniques
For combat weapons competition, to parry means to pass or deflect the opponent’s movement without casing a counter force that would result in solid counter force by your opponent’s weapon. Parrying of your opponent’s weapon or hand is allowed.
For combat competition, a block means to resist, with counter force, your opponent’s weapon.
Dropped & Broken Weapons
If a competitor drops his/her weapon any time after the beginning of the match, an additional point will be awarded to the opponent.
Procedures for a Dropped Weapons
Example #1: The red competitor performs a scoring strike but during the follow through drops his/her weapon. This is considered an active part of the match. White is awarded a point for red’s dropped weapon and the red competitor cannot be awarded points for the scoring technique.
Example #2: The red competitor performs a scoring strike and “break” is called. As red moves back to his starting position, he/she drops his/her weapon. This would be an example of the “inactive” part of the match. A point is awarded to white for red’s drop and red can receive points for his scoring technique.
Warnings and Penalty Points
The safety of all competitors is the main concern of every judge involved. It is because of this safety concern that the calling of warnings is a very important aspect of the judge’s responsibility. Warnings are given when the judge sees the competitor do something illegal or potentially dangerous. There are three different types of warnings: Noncontact, Contact, and Excessive Contact.
Procedures for Calling a Warning
The procedures for calling warning in combat weapons sparring are the same as those used in traditional point sparring.
Non-Contact Warnings
A competitor may be issued a non-contact penalty. Non-contact penalties include, but are not limited to, the following:
Non-contact warnings will receive the following penalty:
Contact Warnings
Contact warning rules are for the safety of competitors in their different divisions. The safety equipment is only effective in stopping cuts and bruise from accidental contact made with controlled technique. IT will not protect against full-power attacks. Contact warning s are awarded when contact is made to an illegal area.
Examples would be:
Excessive Contact Warnings
Excessive Contact Warnings follow the same procedures as traditional point sparring guidelines are listed below.
Excessive conduct warnings are at the sole discretion of the center judge and may result in a penalty, or disqualification.
- Before combat weapons sparring competition, it is the responsibility of the center judge to verify that all competitors are using all of the mandatory safety gear, including groin protection for males, and that all such gear is approved. The judges must also verify that an approved combat weapon, including checking for it being good repair, is being used.
- Combat weapons sparring brackets will be set up using the bye system. Once the bracket is completed, it is imperative that the center judge checks the bracket using following procedure.
- Have all the competitors line up in the center of the ring
- Announce each match using the competitor first and last names. Have each competitor kneel as their name is called.
- Upon completion, make sure everyone still standing is not competing in combat weapons sparring
- Each combat weapons sparring match will last a maximum of 2 minutes
- Unless a disqualification is declared, the competitor who scores the greater number of points at the end of regulation time will declared the winner.
- Following the same procedures as traditions point sparring, the center judge will call up competitors in pairs until places for 1st, 2nd and 3rd are determined.
- If one competitor reaches 10 points before the end of the two minutes, he/she will be declared the winner.
- At the end of 2-minutes, any ties will be determined by “sudden victory”.
- The first person to score wins.
- There is no time limit for “sudden victory.”
Legal Target Areas
Points in combat weapons sparring competition are scored by striking or stabbing with the weapon to a legal target area using one of the combat weapons sparring techniques or by causing one’s opponent to drop his/her weapon.
The following guidelines apply:
- The strike or stab must be effective and under control and make solid contact to be considered a scoring technique by the judges
- A judge would indicate an ineffective or out of control strike/stab with the “no-point” signal used in all sparring events.
- If, in the opinion of the judges, both competitors strike or stab with proper technique simultaneously, no point will be awarded.
- A judge would indicate simultaneous strikes/sabs by competitor’s with the “no-point” signal used in all sparring events.
- The competitor cannot score using the handle of the combat weapon.
- The entire body is a legal target area in combat weapons sparring with the following exceptions:
- Groin.
- Stab to the head.
- Any area of the neck not covered by headgear (face shield is considered part of the headgear).
Strikes with the weapon to a legal contact area will result in the following points with a maximum of 4 points given at only one time:
- 1 point will be awarded for a legal strike or stab to the body not including the head or weapon-holding arm below the elbow.
- 2 points will be awarded for a legal strike to the head, weapon-holding arm below the elbow or stab to the front thigh.
- Add one point to the score for jumping techniques.
Parry, Block or Disarm Techniques
For combat weapons competition, to parry means to pass or deflect the opponent’s movement without casing a counter force that would result in solid counter force by your opponent’s weapon. Parrying of your opponent’s weapon or hand is allowed.
For combat competition, a block means to resist, with counter force, your opponent’s weapon.
- Blocking an opponent’s weapon with one’s own weapon is allowed, however, pushing one’s opponent is not allowed.
- Using one’s hand, or any body part, to stop the weapon of one's opponent will result in a point awarded to one’s opponent.
Dropped & Broken Weapons
If a competitor drops his/her weapon any time after the beginning of the match, an additional point will be awarded to the opponent.
- In combat weapons sparring, a weapon is considered dropped if the weapon leaves the competitor’s hand and hits the ground.
- If the weapon leaves the competitor’s hand and the competitor catches the weapon before it hits the ground, this is not considered a dropped weapon.
- If the weapon breaks during the competition, the competitor will be given an opportunity to replace it.
- A broken weapon is not dropped weapon, and the competitor will not be penalized.
- A competitor has approximately 30 seconds to replace the broken weapon.
- If the weapon is not replaced promptly, the competitor will forfeit the match.
Procedures for a Dropped Weapons
- When a weapon is dropped, the center judge will look at the timekeeper and say “Stop Time”
- A discussion will then take place about when the drop occurred.
- The drop occurred during the active part of the match. The competitor who dropped the weapon cannot be awarded points for scoring techniques.
- The drop occurred after “break” was called as the competitors were returning to their starting positions. This is the inactive part of the match, and the competitor who dropped the weapon may be awarded points for scoring techniques.
- Award the person who did not drop the weapon a point his/her opponent’s drop.
- If both persons in the match drop their weapons at the same time, both competitors will be awarded points.
- Call for points if necessary.
- Time resumes when the center judge restarts the match.
Example #1: The red competitor performs a scoring strike but during the follow through drops his/her weapon. This is considered an active part of the match. White is awarded a point for red’s dropped weapon and the red competitor cannot be awarded points for the scoring technique.
Example #2: The red competitor performs a scoring strike and “break” is called. As red moves back to his starting position, he/she drops his/her weapon. This would be an example of the “inactive” part of the match. A point is awarded to white for red’s drop and red can receive points for his scoring technique.
Warnings and Penalty Points
The safety of all competitors is the main concern of every judge involved. It is because of this safety concern that the calling of warnings is a very important aspect of the judge’s responsibility. Warnings are given when the judge sees the competitor do something illegal or potentially dangerous. There are three different types of warnings: Noncontact, Contact, and Excessive Contact.
Procedures for Calling a Warning
The procedures for calling warning in combat weapons sparring are the same as those used in traditional point sparring.
Non-Contact Warnings
A competitor may be issued a non-contact penalty. Non-contact penalties include, but are not limited to, the following:
- The competitor has more than three points of contact on the ground.
- The competitor was running out of the ring to avoid being scored upon.
- The competitor was purposely falling to avoid being scored upon.
- The competitor is delaying the match (slow returning to mark, slow getting up, etc.)
- The competitor is receiving coaching.
Non-contact warnings will receive the following penalty:
- For the first infraction in the match, the competitor will receive a verbal warning only.
- For each additional infraction in the match, a penalty point will be awarded to the competitor’s opponent.
Contact Warnings
Contact warning rules are for the safety of competitors in their different divisions. The safety equipment is only effective in stopping cuts and bruise from accidental contact made with controlled technique. IT will not protect against full-power attacks. Contact warning s are awarded when contact is made to an illegal area.
Examples would be:
- Strikes to illegal targets.
- Stabs to illegal targets.
- Takedowns of any kind.
- Throwing of one’s opponent.
- Grabbing one’s opponent or of his/her weapon.
- Body checking, pushing and shoving your opponent.
- The first infraction in the match, will result in a penalty point awarded to the competitor’s opponent
- The second infraction in the match, will result in the automatic disqualification of the competitor.
Excessive Contact Warnings
Excessive Contact Warnings follow the same procedures as traditional point sparring guidelines are listed below.
Excessive conduct warnings are at the sole discretion of the center judge and may result in a penalty, or disqualification.
- Remember that the purpose of this rule is to protect all competitors physically and mentally.
- Excessive contact may result in disqualification if excessive contact was due to negligent lack of control. A competitor disqualified, during the quarter finals of the bracket, for excessive contact can advance and participate in the 3rd place match unless in the opinion of the Center Judge, the excessive contact was due to Malice Intent.
- Excessive contact due to malice will result in an unsportsmanlike disqualification, and the competitor is done for the da in all sparring and/or combat events