USAT Referee Development Program Seminar Rev. 25—3/27/15

USAT Referee Development Program Seminar

Rev. 25—3/27/15

Today’s Agenda

Competition Rules USAT Referee Development Program Fundamentals of Refereeing Competition Basics Corner Judge Duties and Responsibilities Prohibited Acts Referee Duties and Responsibilities Junior Competition Rules TA Duties and Responsibilities Video Replay Other Things You Should Know

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Today’s Agenda

Practical Hand Signals Practice Scoring Practice Match Practice

Questions and Answers

Written Exam

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Referee Development Program

Mission To develop USAT Referees at all levels

through education, standardization and practical application.

To certify and promote referees using a systematic approach based on participation and merit.

To ensure a fair competition environment for athletes in pursuit of competitive excellence.

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Section 1:

Fundamentals of Refereeing

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What is the referee’s job?

From WTF’s Foundations of Refereeing:

There are general principles which the referee in any sport must fully understand and adhere to. These principles:

Protect the integrity of the competition process.

Protect the physical safety and the trust of the competitors.

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Referee responsibilities

Number One responsibility is the safety of the competitors.

The referee is there to ensure fair play, and manage the competition fairly. This enables both players to perform at the best of their ability.

Good refereeing is based on common sense.

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Remember Three Fundamentals!

Safety

Fairness

Common sense

Everything you do as a referee relates back to

these basic principles.

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Qualities of a Good Referee

Integrity

Confidence

Decisiveness

Consistency

Calmness under pressure

Thorough knowledge of the Competition Rules

In-depth understanding of the evolving game

Wisdom and experience to apply the Competition Rules correctly

Strong sense of motivation

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More Qualities of a Good Referee

Excellent communication skills

Ability to observe what’s happening

Respect for Players Coaches Tournament staff — volunteers, medical,

security, Organizing Committee Fellow referees

Sense of teamwork

Good physical condition

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Developing “Ring Presence”

Good physical presentation Grooming Attire

Attitude (see “Qualities”)

Physical poise Posture Balance Graceful movement Precise hand signals

Focus

Authoritative voice

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Game Day!

Dressed for the occasion Black suit, white shirt, red tie (Team Trials) Official USAT Referee Polo shirt (Qualifiers and

National events) White TKD or athletic shoes No watches or jewelry in the ring

Well-groomed

Well-rested — no late-nights until after the event

On time — even better, early

No cell phones in the ring!

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Section 2:

Competition Basics

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The Contest Area (Square)

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The Contest Area (Octagonal)

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Protective Equipment

Mandatory Head Protector (must be blue or red to

match hogu)

Chest Guard Groin Guard (worn inside Dobok)

Forearm Protector Shin/Instep Protector Mouth Guard (white or transparent only)

WTF-approved Gloves (World Class Cadet, 15-17 and 18-32 Black Belt divisions, optional for others; white, or color must match hogu; half-fingered)

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Things to Look for at Inspection

All mandatory protective equipment Approved sensing socks (if using PSS) Properly fitting chest guard

If using PSS, all players in division wear same size, but exceptions can be made with Ref Chair approval

Dobok — clean and in good repair White V-neck Black trim V-neck for Black Belts only No tape allowed on uniform (Exception: taping pants leg with

electronic sensor)

Head protector in good repair No cracks, tape, pictures, writing, etc.

Appropriate belt White, Yellow, Green, Blue, Red, Red & Black, or Black Stripes are allowed

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Inspection (continued)

Fingernails and toenails clipped Long hair tied back so it won’t get in the way No glasses or sport goggles — no exceptions! No jewelry — including ear studs, nose rings, eyebrow

rings, etc. No metallic or hard objects in the hair No unauthorized padding or taping (no excessive taping)

No tape under PSS socks No metallic or hard plastic braces No “do-rags” or anything else on head (Exception: religious

scarf or head covering)

With LaJust socks, pants legs can be taped or tucked into sock — not tucked into shin protector

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Duration of the Contest

Three rounds of two minutes each, with one-minute rest period between rounds. The contest in each round begins with referee’s

declaration of “Shi-jak” and ends with referee’s declaration of “Keu-man.”

Even if the referee has not declared “Keu-man,” the contest is considered ended when the match clock expires — so be alert and call “Keu-man” on time!

Round duration and rest periods may be changed for specific competitions (i.e., shorter rounds for juniors or color belts).

In case of a tie score at end of the 3rd round, there will be an overtime (“Golden Point”) round after the rest period.

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Weigh-In Procedures

Contestants weigh-in the day prior to competition USAT-certified referee must do the weigh-in.

Competitors are allowed two tries to make weight, within the time limit. A second test scale should be provided.

Contestant must show current USAT ID card. May be required to show proof of citizenship.

Weigh in is done in the official V-neck uniform. Separate weigh-in locations for male and female If a contestant wishes, weigh-in may be done in

underpants for male and underpants and bra for female contestants.

Under NO circumstances may an athlete weigh-in nude!

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Section 3:

Corner Judge Duties and Responsibilities

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Corner Judge Duties

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Corner judges and the referee are a team, and work together to “get it right.”

Corner Judge Basics

Judges score or award technical points by pressing buttons on an electronic scoring device. Device may be in the form of individual hand grips,

or a single box. A judge must clearly understand:

Criteria for a valid point (i.e., permitted techniques, and legal scoring areas).

When to award points, and when not to award points.

Electronic scoring isn’t difficult—but it does take practice!

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Look Sharp In the Corner

Sit properly — comfortable, good posture, feet on floor, no legs crossed.

Focus only on your match, get “in the zone.”

Stand when necessary to get a better viewof the action.

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Electronic Scoring

Daedo PSS in US uses dual handgrip joysticks.

Top buttons award head kicks. Side Triggers (“Technical Point”) are pressed

for valid turns. Small buttons are pressed to award punches.

If you have two controllers Red is ALWAYS in the left hand!

Blue is ALWAYS in the right hand! Various systems are in use; be sure to know how the

system works before you go into the ring. If the system can’t accommodate it, referee stops action

to award the additional point for turning kicks.

Points are recorded when two of three judges press for the same player within a window of one second.

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Electronic Body Protectors

Electronic Protector & Scoring Systems (PSS) — such as the Daedo system used by USAT — automatically record points to the body.

Corner judges press to score: Head kicks (unless headgear PSS is used) Valid turns to the body or head Punches

PSS must be enabled before each match. Sometimes, tournament organizers or volunteers do

this, but referees should know how to do it. Referee supervises a single test kick with each foot to

verify the system is working. (If headgear PSS is used, also one test kick to headgear.)

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When you make a mistake...

Everyone presses the wrong button occasionally.

When you make a mistake, immediately press the correct button.

If you see that your error may have resulted in a no-score, or a score for the wrong player, stand up immediately to get the referee’s attention.

When one judge stands, all stand! The referee will call the judges together to sort it out. When asked, state what happened (“Yes, head kick for

Blue.” Or, “No, I didn’t score on that last exchange.”) Just the facts, no involved discussion.

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Permitted Techniques

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Fist techniques: A straight punching technique using the knuckle part of a tightly clenched fist

Foot techniques: Delivering techniques using any part of the foot below the ankle bone

The front part of the tightly clenched fist — no backfists, hammer fists, knife hands, ridge hands, chicken beaks, or anything other than a straight or reverse punch.

Any type of foot technique is allowed.

Permitted Areas

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Trunk: Attack by fist and foot techniques on the areas covered by the trunk protector are permitted. Attack to the spine, however, is not permitted.

Head: This is the area above the collar bone. Only foot techniques are permitted.

Entire trunk protector is a legal attacking area — but only the colored area is a legal scoring area.

Includes flanks, but not the spine itself.

Throat is not a scoring area.

Scoring Areas

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Trunk: The blue or red colored area of the trunk protector

Head: The entire head above the bottom line of the head protector

When Is a Point Scored?

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Points shall be awarded when a permitted technique is delivered to the scoring areas of the trunk with a proper level of impact.

Points shall be awarded when a permitted technique is delivered to the scoring area of the head.

If PSS is used, determination of the validity of the technique, level of impact, and/or valid contact to the scoring area shall be made by the electronic scoring system. These PSS determinations shall not be subject to Instant Video Replay.

Manual Scoring

A point is recorded when two of three judges press for the same player within a window of one second.

In manual scoring, criteria for power and accuracy is a sliding scale — must be adjusted for the various weight classes and belt levels. A body technique requires more power than a head

technique. Look for more power from heavyweights, less from fin

weights. Look for greater power from black belts; be more

generous with white or yellow belts.

Head techniques: if it touches, score it!

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Criteria for Scoring a Punch

Criteria for scoring a punch Delivering a punch using the tightly clenched,

correctly made fist Punch should be executed with extended arm Power & accuracy: The body is staggered

as a result of the impact

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Valid Points

One point for a successful punch or kick to the trunk protector

Three points for a valid turning kick to the trunk protector

Three points for a successful attack to the head

Four points for a valid turning kick to the head

One point awarded for every two Kyung-gos or every one Gam-jeom given to the opponent

Note: With the exception of the 4-point turning kick to head, these scoring standards also apply underJunior Safety Rules.

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When Not to Score

Points should not be awarded when they are the result of prohibited acts.

Some common examples:

Holding the opponent while kicking Pushing and then kicking Attack after Kal-yeo (break) Attacking a fallen opponent Player is clearly outside the Boundary Line

Don’t second-guess the referee; however, when it’s an obvious infraction — don’t score it.

If in doubt, go ahead and score it, and let the referee decide.

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Section 4:

Prohibited Acts

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Why Do We Need Penalties?

Objectives in establishing the prohibited acts and penalties:

To secure the contestants’ safety To ensure fair competition To encourage appropriate techniques

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Two Kinds of Penalties

Kyung-go (Half-Point Warning) — two Kyung-go penalties result in a point added to the opponent’s score. A single odd Kyung-go has no effect on the score Less serious infractions

Gam-jeom (Full-Point Deduction) — results in a single point being added to the opponent’s score. These are more serious

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Administering Penalties

“Kyung-go” and “Gam-jeom” penalties are counted in the total score of the three rounds.

If a player receives any combination of “Kyung-go” and “Gam-jeom” penalties that add up to five points, that player is declared loser by penalties.

In the event of a really flagrant, deliberate violation, you don’t have to wait for the penalties to add up to disqualify the competitor.

When an infraction occurs during the rest period, the referee immediately declares the penalty, and it is applied in the next round.

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Administering Penalties

After administering the penalty, Referee shows hand signals for:

Crossing the Boundary Line

Grabbing

Pushing

Avoiding the Match

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Kyung-go Penalties

a. Crossing the Boundary Line

b. Falling down

c. Avoiding or delaying the match

d. Grabbing, holding or pushing the opponent

e. Lifting the knee to block and/or impede the the opponent’s kicking attack, or lifting a leg for more than 3 seconds, without execution of any attacking technique, to impede opponent’s attacking movements

f. Kicking below the waist

g. Attacking the opponent after “Kal-yeo”

h. Hitting the opponent’s head with the hand

i. Butting or attacking with the knee

j. Attacking the fallen opponent

k. Misconduct of contestant or coach

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a. Crossing the Boundary Line

When both feet of a player fully cross the Boundary Line.

If the the player is pushed out, the opposing player gets the penalty.

If both feet of both players go out, both players are penalized.

With one foot out, a player can still score as long as his body is within the vertical plane of the Boundary Line.

The referee must be alert, and call “Kal-yeo” immediately when a player crosses the Boundary Line.

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b. Falling down

Kyung-go shall be declared for falling down.

If a contestant falls down due to the opponent’s prohibited acts, Kyung-go is given to the opponent.

If both contestants fall as a result of incidental collision (i.e., not exchanging techniques), no penalty shall be given.

If a player falls and is given an eight-count, no Kyung-go is given.

Rule of thumb: If a player falls, give a Kyung-go, with two exceptions noted above.

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b. Falling down

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Stalling or running away with no intention of attacking.

Distinguish intentional avoidance from tactical defense.

“10-Second Rule” Players have about five seconds to set up. If no action, the referee gives “Fight” command. If there is no activity within 10 seconds after the

command, “Kyung-go” is given to the contestant who moved backwards.

Kyung-go can be given to both players if they were equally inactive.

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Turning the back to avoid the opponent’s attack.

Includes evading the opponent’s attack by bending below waist level or crouching.

Kyung-go should also be given when a player asks the referee to stop the match to adjust protective equipment.

Retreating from technical engagement only to avoid the opponent’s attack and to run out the clock.

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“Pretending injury” Exaggerating injury or indicating pain in a body

part not subjected to a blow for the purpose of demonstrating the opponent’s action as a violation.

Exaggerating pain for the purpose of elapsing the match time.

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d. Grabbing, holding or pushing

Grabbing any part of the opponent’s body, uniform or protective equipment with the hands.

Grabbing the foot or leg, or hooking either one on top of the forearm.

Pushing the opponent out of the Boundary Line.

Pushing that causes the opponent to fall down.

Pushing to hinder the opponent’s attack or hinder the normal execution of technique.

Pushing with the palm, elbow, shoulder, trunk or head, etc.

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e. Lifting the knee...

Lifting the knee to block or/and impede the opponent’s kicking attack.

Lifting a leg for more than three seconds, without execution of any attacking technique, to impede opponent’s attacking movements.

Lifting the knee in order to kick is not penalized.

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f. Kicking below the waist

Unintentional or careless attack on any part below the waist — including “butt shots.”

If caused by the recipient in the course of an exchange of techniques, no penalty is given.

Strong kicking or stamping actions to any part of the thigh, knee or shin for the purpose of interfering with the opponent’s technique.

Example: “cut kick” to the leg or lower body

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g. Attacking after “Kal-yeo”

Attacking after Kal-yeo requires that the attack results in actual contact to the opponent’s body.

If the attacking motion started before the Kal-yeo, the attack shall not be penalized.

In Instant Video Replay, the timing of Kal-yeo shall be defined as the moment that the referee’s hand signal was completed (with fully extended arm); the start of the attack is defined as the moment the attacking foot is fully off the floor.

If an attack after Kal-yeo did not land on the opponent’s body but appeared deliberate and malicious, the referee may penalized the behavior with a “Kyung-go.”

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h. Hitting opponent’s face with hand

Unintentionally hitting the opponent’s face with the hand (fist), wrist, arm, or elbow.

Unavoidable actions due to the opponent’s carelessness — such as excessively lowering the head or carelessly turning the body — are not penalized.

Always give either a “Kyung-go” or “Gam-jeom” for a hand to the head. Don't let it go.

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i. Butting or attacking with knee

Head butting or attacking with the knee when in close proximity to the opponent.

No penalty for inadvertent contact as the result of technical exchange. When opponent rushes in abruptly at the moment

a kick is being executed. As the result of a discrepancy in distance in

attacking.

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j. Attacking the fallen opponent

“Fallen”: when any part of the player’s body, other than the soles of the feet, touches the floor.

A falling player is still subject to legitimate attack, and may be at risk — so the referee must be alert to step in with “Kal-yeo.”

A penalty may also be given if a contestant maliciously pretends to attack the fallen opponent.

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k. Misconduct of player or coach

Not complying with a referee’s command or ruling.

Inappropriate protesting or criticizing of officials’ decisions.

Provoking or insulting officials, opposing contestant, coach, or spectators.

Loud coaching during the rounds.

Coach standing or leaving the 1m x 1m Coach’s Zone.

Any other undesirable behavior or unsportsmanlike conduct; behavior that is not within “normally acceptable limits.”

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More Serious Penalties

In the case of serious misconduct of the prohibited acts by contestant or coach the referee shall declare “Gam-jeom.”

When a coach or contestant commits excessive misconduct and does not follow the referee’s command the referee may declare a sanction request by raising a yellow card.

If a contestant intentionally and repeatedly refuses to comply with the Competition Rules or the referee’s orders, the referee may end the match and declare the opposing contestant the winner.

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Gam-jeom Penalties

Serious misconduct of contestants or coaches. Examples: Not complying with the referee’s command or decision Inappropriate protesting or criticizing of officials’ decisions Inappropriate attempts to disturb or influence the outcome of the match Fleeing from the competition area to avoid normal technical exchange. If

a contestant attempts to avoid normal technical exchanges by behavior such as crossing the boundary line or intentionally falling down repeatedly, the referee may give a Gam-jeom, after a Kyung-go

Clearly intentional punch to the opponent’s face Clearly intentional attack the opponent after “kal-yeo” Clearly intentional attack to a fallen opponent Clearly intentional attack below the waist Provoking or insulting the opposing contestant or coach Unaccredited doctor/physicians or other team officials found to be

seated in the doctors position Any other severe misconduct or unsportsmanlike conduct from a

contestant or coach

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Gam-jeom Penalties

Determining the degree of illegality — and whether to issue a Kyung-go or Gam-jeom — is at the referee’s discretion.

Multiple instances of the same offense can “escalate” to Gam-jeom.

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Manipulating the scoring system

If there is intentional manipulation, or attempt to manipulate the PSS, the referee will declare the violating competitor the loser by penalty.

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Section 5:

Referee Duties and Responsibilities

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Referee Responsibilities

Has control over the match, and protects the safety of the competitors.

Declares “Shi-jak,” “Keu-man,” “Kal-yeo,” “Kye-sok” and “Kye-shi,” winner and loser, deduction of points, warnings and retiring.

If an Inspection Desk is not in use, the referee inspects the contestants’ safety equipment, dobok, metallic articles, etc. — Chung first, and then Hong. Sometimes, inspection is done at ring-side by

other officials. In this case, the referee needn’t inspect again.

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More Referee Responsibilities

Has the right to make decisions independently in accordance with the rules.

The referee does not award points.

In the case of a scoreless Golden Point round in which the other criteria are inconclusive, the decision of Superiority is made by the corner judges and the referee.

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Eight Ways to Win

1. Referee Stops Contest (RSC) After a legitimate technique, the opponent cannot

demonstrate the will to resume the contest by the count of “Yeo-dul.”

When the referee or doctor determines that a player cannot continue, even after a one minute recovery period.

When a contestant disregards the referee’s command to continue.

In case of a severe mismatch, where the referee feels a player may be in danger if the match continues.

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Eight Ways to Win (continued)

2. Win by final score (PTF) Winning player scores more points than the

opponent.

3. Win by Point Gap (PTG) When there is a 12-point difference at the

completion of the second round, or at any time during the third round.

4. Win by Golden Point (GDP)

5. Win by Superiority (SUP) Winner decided according to Rules of

Superiority.

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6. Win by withdrawal (WDR) Player withdraws from the match due to injury or

other reasons. Player does not resume the match after the rest

period or fails to respond to the call to begin the match.

Coach throws in the towel.

7. Win by disqualification (DSQ) Player fails to make weight or loses contestant

status before the competition begins.

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8. Win by referee’s punitive declaration (PUN) When a player accumulates a total of five

deduction points — “Kyung-go” and/or“Gam-jeom,” in any combination.

If it is determined that a contestant manipulates the sensor(s) or scoring system of the PSS.

if a contestant or coach refuses to follow the referee’s commands or to comply with the Competition Rules, or commits other serious behavior, including improper protest.

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Golden Point Round

If the score is tied at the end of the final round, the match goes to an Golden Point round. First score (or total of one full deduction point for

opponent) decides the winner. In case of simultaneous head shot for one player

and body shot for other player, Video Replay can determine which landed first. If no VR, consult with judges.

To initiate the Golden Point round: Referee sends the contestants back to their respective

coaches using the same hand gesture as at the end of a round.

Referee begins the 4th round with “Joon-Bi” and “Shi-Jak” after the usual rest period.

Contestants do not bow again.

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Golden Point Round

In the event that neither contestant has scored a point after the completion of the 4th round, the winner shall be decided by the following criteria: The contestant who achieved a higher number of hits

registered by the PSS during the 4th round If the number of hits registered by the PSS is tied, the

contestant who received fewer Kyung-go and Gam-jeoms during all four rounds

NOTE: The PSS will automatically decide the above

If the two above criteria are the same, the referee and judges shall determine superiority based on the content of the 4th round.

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Superiority

If neither player scores in the Golden Point round, the winner is decided by Superiority.

Superiority is based on which player showed greater initiative. Overtime round only — not the whole match!

Initiative is judged by these criteria — in order: Technical dominance of an opponent through

aggressive match management. A greater number of techniques executed. The use of more advanced techniques, both in

difficulty and complexity. Display of a better competition manner.

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Superiority Card

Be sure to have a Superiority Card and penwith you before the match begins.

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Procedure for Superiority

At the end of the overtime round, the referee takes two steps back, and says “Woo-se ki-rok.”

The corner judges complete their cards, and present them to the referee.

The referee completes his/her own card, records the result, has the players bow, and declares the winner.

With three corner judges, if there is a 2-2 tie, whichever player the the referee voted for is the winner.

The referee turns the cards over to the T.A.

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Knock-Down

Definition: When a contestant is knocked to the floor or is staggered or unable to respond adequately to the requirements of the match due to a legal technique. When any part of the body other than the sole of the

foot touches the floor due to the force of the opponent’s permitted technique.

When a contestant is staggered and shows no intention or ability to continue.

When the referee judges that, in the interest of safety, the contest cannot continue as the result of a contestant being struck by a permitted technique.

Any situation where — as the result of legal contact — it would be dangerous to continue or when there is any question about the safety of a contestant.

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Knock-Down Procedure

Declare “Kal-yeo” (break).

Keep the attacker away from the downed player.

Check player condition, call doctor if necessary.

Count at one-second intervals. “Ha-nah, Duhl, Seht, Neht, Da-seot, Yeo-seot, Il-gop,

Yeo-dul, A-hop, Yeol.”

You can call for the doctor while you’re counting.

Continue to count, even if match time has expired.

You MUST count to eight — even if the player is ready to continue before then.

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Player demonstrates will to continue by standing in fighting position, fists up. Must be alert and ready to go. Look closely, make sure.

Don’t spend additional time confirming the competitor’s recovery after counting to “Yeo-dul” —check them while you’re counting.

Resume the contest by declaring “Kye-sok”(continue).

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If a player clearly recovers before the count of “Yeo-dul” and expresses the will to resume, but still needs medical treatment... Resume the match by declaring “Kye-shi” (injury time-

out) and proceed accordingly.

If downed player cannot demonstrate the will to resume the contest by the count of “Yeo-dul” (eight), continue counting: “A-hop,” “Yeol.”

Once you count past eight, the game is over. You must finish the count and declare a Knock-Out.

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Knock-Down ... But No Score

Body shot: If point is not scored, referee stops the match

and declares Kye-shi (injury time out) Head shot:

Referee counts as usual Judges should stand to bring situation to

center referee’s attention. If player is able to continue by the count of

eight (“Yeo-dul”), referee declares Shi-gan and confers with judges to determine if points should be awarded.

If judges do not confirm the points, referee may request Video Replay.

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Both Players Knocked Down

If both players are knocked down, continue counting as long as one of the contestants has not sufficiently recovered.

If neither player recovers by the count of “Yeo-dul,” winner is decided based on the match score before the knock-down.

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“Kye-shi”: Injury Time-Out

If the referee determines a contestant’s pain is caused only by a bruise the referee shall declare Kal-yeo and give a command to resume the match with the call, “stand-up.” If the contestant refuses to continue the match after the referee gives the command “stand up” three times, the referee shall declare the match “Referee Stops Contest.”

If a contestant receives an injury such as brokenbone, dislocation, sprain, and/or bleeding, the referee stops the match by declaring “Kal-yeo,” and orders the Recorder to suspend the time by announcing “Kye-shi” (60-second suspension).

The referee may call for the doctor, and the player is allowed one minute to receive first aid.

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It is the decision of the referee, after consulting with the doctor, whether or not it is possible for the contestant to resume the match.

While the player is receiving medical treatment or is in the process of recovering, 40 seconds after the declaration of “Kye-shi,” the referee begins to loudly announce the passage of time in five second intervals— saying, “40 seconds,” “45 seconds,” etc.

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If the player is unable or unwilling to resume the match after one minute...

If the injury was caused by a legal action, accidental contact, (or no contact) — injured player loses.

If the injury was caused by an illegal action penalized by Kyung-go — injured player loses.

If the injury was caused by an illegal action penalized by Gam-jeom — player causing the injury loses.

The referee must call medical staff for the second one-minute injury time-out, and ask whether the injured contestant is able to continue.

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Resume the match by declaring “Kye-sok”(continue).

If the player clearly indicates the intention to proceed, but treatment is required and the doctor is unavailable, or if a bit of additional treatment is necessary, the referee can choose to suspend the one-minute time limit. This is done by declaring “Shi-gan” (time) before the 60

seconds have elapsed.

If both of the contestants are injured and unable to continue the match after one minute, the winner is decided based the match score before the injuries occurred.

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“Shi-gan”: Non-Injury Time Out

When you need to suspend the match for something other than an injury, you declare“Shi-gan” (time). Examples: to confer with judges after

counting where no points were scored or to extend an injury time-out.

There is no time limit for a Shi-gan time-out; the duration is entirely at the discretion of the referee.

Resume the match by declaring “Kye-sok”(continue).

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Uncontrollable Circumstances

If uncontrollable circumstances force you to end a match prematurely... If the match is suspended after the end of the

second round, results are determined according to the match score at the time of suspension.

If the match is suspended before the end of the second round, a full three-round rematch should be conducted.

In this type of situation, follow the directions of the Tournament Committee.

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Section 6:

Junior Competition Rules

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No Head Contact

Ages 7 & Under (All Belts)Ages 11 & Under (Color Belts)

Any technique which contacts the head area which does not cause any injury, will be given a warning by the referee (“Kyung-go”). A penalty may also be given for intentional or repeated,

careless attacks to the head area, even if no contact is made.

Any technique, which causes injury to the head area will result in a one-point deduction by the referee (“Gam-jeom”). Even in the absence of visible injury, the referee

may decide the contact is excessive and penalizewith “Gam-jeom.”

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No Head Contact

Ages 7 & Under (All Belts)Ages 11 & Under (Color Belts)

If the competitor cannot continue because of the injury to the head area, the attacker will be disqualified.

Inability to continue because of fright, crying or loss of will following a kick to the head which did not cause injury does not constitute grounds for disqualification of the attacker.

Turning Kicks: Successful turning kicks to the body will be awarded three points in all Junior sparring divisions.

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Junior Safety Rules

Ages 8 – 11 Black BeltsAges 12 – 14 Cadet Division Grass Roots

Black Belts and Color BeltsAges 15 – 17 Color Belts

Competitors are allowed to kick to the head. However: The kick must be light contact with appropriate control,

without causing any injury or excessive contact.

A successful head technique (light contact, no injury) will be awarded three points.

Turning Kicks: Successful turning kicks to the body will be awarded three points in all Junior sparring divisions; there is no additional point for a turning kick to the head.

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Junior Safety Rules



A competitor who executes a kick to the face which results in a minor injury shall receive a “Gam-jeom” penalty. Minor injury is defined as abrasion or bleeding caused by

non-excessive contact.

Even in the absence of visible injury, the referee may decide the contact is excessive.

The referee, with or without the doctor, has sole responsibility for determining if the abrasion or bleeding is a minor injury, and if the attack is excessive.

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Junior Safety Rules



A competitor who executes a kick to the face which results in the inability of the opponent to continue sparring because of injury shall be disqualified.

Inability to continue because of fright, crying or loss of will following a legal kick to the head which did not cause injury does not constitute grounds for disqualification of the attacker.

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Junior Safety Rules



8-Count: Under Junior Competition Rules, the referee should NOT give an 8-count for ANY technique — even a legal one — to the head area. If a kick to the head would be considered powerful enough

to warrant an 8-count, it is considered excessive, and should be given a “Gam-Jeom” penalty; if the player who is kicked needs time to recover, “Kye-shi” is called.

The referee can and should begin an 8-count for a legal kick to the trunk area that results in a knock-down condition.

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Adult Competition Rules

12 – 14 Cadet World Class Black Belts15 – 17 Junior Division Black Belts18 – up All Belts

Adult rules apply At Nationals, there will be two Cadet

Divisions, Grass Roots (JSRs) and World Class (adult rules) Athletes cannot compete in both divisions

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Nationals and Qualifiers

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Section 7:

Technical Assistant (T.A.)

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Technical Assistant (T.A.) Duties

Senior-level referee who serves as team leader for the referee and judges in a ring.

Answers to the Referee Chairman for the overall performance of the ring’s referee team.

Mentors, coaches, guides and supports the referees serving in that ring. May also do referee and corner judge evaluations.

Assigns referees and supervises ring assignments and rotation.

Takes care of tournament paperwork. T.A. paper and match sheets Referee assignment sheet

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Technical Assistant (T.A.) Duties

Works closely with the Computer Operator and ring volunteers. Makes sure start time, penalties, time-outs, etc. are

correctly recorded.

Doesn’t micro-manage, but in critical situations makes sure that the referee team “gets it right.” Only steps in when necessary, but does step in if

necessary.

Reviews Superiority Cards for accuracy.

Anticipates — and handles — situations before they become problems.

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T.A. / Match Sheet

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Completed Match Sheet

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Section 8:

Video Replay and Protests

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Video Replay

Used for Nationals, Team Trials and other USAT competitions where possible and/or feasible.

No appeal on points scored by foot or fist attacks on the trunk (regardless of use of PSS), except for turning kicks awarded or not awarded by the judges.

Each ring has one Review Jury consisting of an experienced International Referee. Technical Assistant may also serve as the Review Jury.

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Video Replay Procedure

If there is an objection to a judgment of the refereeing officials, the coach can request an immediate video replay.

Referee declares “Kal-yeo,” returns the players to their marks, and approaches the coach. Coach gives the referee a card.

Referee returns to the Referee’s Mark, holds the card up with the right hand and declares, “Chung, video replay,” or “Hong, video replay.”

The referee approaches the Review Jury and briefly explains the coach’s request. After explanation, referee returns to Referee’s Mark to

await decision.

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Review Jury reviews the video replay. Decision must be made within two minutes. If Review Jury would like a second opinion, he/she may

consult the Referee Chairman. Review Jury cannot be of the same state or training

affiliation as either contestant.

After review, the Review Jury informs the referee of the final decision — “Accepted” or “Rejected.” “Accepted” = Right thumb up “Rejected” = Open hands crossed at wrist The referee repeats the signal of the Review Jury

If the appeal is accepted, the referee returns the card to the coach. If rejected, the referee keeps the card and continues the match.

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In a single match, a coach may appeal as many times as he/she wishes, as long as each appeal is upheld by the Review Jury.

If an appeal is denied, the coach loses the right to any further appeal in that match.

There is no limit on the total number of successful appeals a coach may make per contestant in a single championship.

Based on the size and level of the championship, the Organizing Committee may decide the number of appeal quota between one (1) and three (3) per player per championship.

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Appeal must be made within 5 seconds Coach may request video replay within 5 seconds of VR

decision or referee meeting — not necessarily within 5 seconds of the action itself

If a judge stands at same time as coach requests video replay.... coach should stay standing; if the judges fix it, they can sit down and keep their card

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What can be appealed 3 or 4 points head kick, or no 3 or 4 points (if headgear

PSS is used, only face kicks may be challenged) Additional point(s) for a turning kick Penalties against the opponent only for instances of

falling down or crossing the boundary line Invalidation of any penalty against his/her own player Invalidation of points gained through an illegal action ...

but only if referee has given the penalty, but failed to wave off the points

Point(s) or penalty clearly given to wrong player (i.e., Chung falls, but referee gives falling penalty to Hong; Hong kicks, but score goes up for Chung, etc.)

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What can not be appealed Kicks scored, or not scored, to the body Punches scored or not scored Reverse of a previous Video Replay decision Two or more actions (with certain exceptions, below)

Situations where two actions may come into play Invalidation of points scored as a result of falling (i.e.,

spin kick where hand touches ground before kick scores)

Invalidation of points scored by a player who has crossed Boundary Line

Invalidation of points scored on a player who has crossed Boundary Line

Two head kicks (head touches) in same exchange

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Special situations In Golden Point round, if one player (apparently)

scores a head kick and the other player scores a PSS body kick, coach may request video review to see which player’s technique landed first.

In last 10 seconds of final round or any time during Golden Point round, any of the judges can ask for review and correction of scoring when a coach does not have appeal quota.

If there is a clear error in identifying a contestant or errors in the scoring system, any of the refereeing officials (including the TA) may request a review and correction of the decision at any time during the contest.

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The decision of the Review Jury is final. No further appeals on that issue will be accepted during

or after the match.

Exception: Errors in determining the match results, mistakes in calculating the match score or misidentifying a contestant.

In such instances, an official protest can be submitted according to the “Protest Procedure.”

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Competition Supervisory Board

The Competition Supervisory Board adjudicates protests and corrects misjudgments if necessary.

May summon the refereeing officials for confirmation of events. Video tapes will not be admitted as evidence. If summoned, answer ONLY what’s asked, and stick

strictly to the FACTS.

Competition Supervisory Board may also take disciplinary action against the officials committing the infraction.

May recommend that the Referee Director replace referees or judges.

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Protest Procedure After the Match

Protest must be filed within 10 minutes after the match by a certified coach representing the athlete.

Protest application is submitted to the Event Director, along with non-refundable fee of one hundred dollars ($100.00).

Official, field of play decisions made during and at the end of the contest are final and not negotiable.

When Video Replay is in use, only errors in determining the match results, etc. may be protested.

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Protest Procedure After the Match

Treatment of the decision:

Errors in determining the match results, mistakes in calculating the match score or misidentifying a contestant shall result in the decision being reversed.

If the referee made a clear error in applying the Competition Rules, the outcome of the error shall be corrected and the referee may be admonished or face sanction.

When the Board decides that there was a clear error in judging the facts, such as the impact of striking, severity of action or conduct, intention, timing of an act in relation to a declaration or area, the decision shall not be changed and the official(s) seen to have made the error may be admonished or sanctioned.

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Coach Decorum

One coach may accompany the contestant to the competition ring when the contestant’s name is called to compete.

The coach must meet all USAT Coaching program requirements to be eligible to coach.

The coach must observe the USAT decorum code, the rules and regulations of the Organizing Committee, and the rules of the tournament. Violators of these rules and regulations may have their

coaching privileges canceled by the USAT and face additional sanction.

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Coach Decorum

During the competition, coaches are required to remain seated within the 1 x 1 meter coach’s box and NOT allowed to move about the ring during competition.

The coach may not enter the ring during a competition. If his/her contestant is injured during a contest, the

coach must wait for the referee to declare “Kal-yeo” and give permission before leaving the coach’s chair.

The coach should wait for the doctor to arrive before touching his/her contestant.

Coach should look and act professional at all times.

Dress Code: No hats, no slippers or flip-flops, no jeans, no shorts; no cell phones or other communication devices

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Section 9:

Other Things You Should Know

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Referee Code of Conduct

As a Referee, I will enforce the current Competition Rules in a fair and impartial manner, showing no favoritism to one competitor over another competitor.

Competitor safety is of the utmost concern as I perform my duties as Referee.

I will conduct myself as a professional in all of my actions during a competition event.

I will not accept favors of any kind in return for my actions as a Referee.

I will maintain proper physical conditioning in order to be able to perform my duties and responsibilities as a Referee.

I will accept critiques from supervisors in order to improve my abilities as a Referee.

I am an ambassador for Taekwondo and, as such, I must perform my duties in a firm and professional manner, using tact and diplomacy as needed.

I will limit my contact with competitors and coaches during the course of any tournament to basic greetings and shall not dine or socialize with participating competitors and coaches during the course of any tournament.

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Matters Not Specifically Covered

Matters related to the competition will be decided through consensus by the refereeing officials of the pertinent contest.

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Words of Wisdom

No public comments about a particular match — ever! “The walls have ears,” and “Loose lips sink ships.” Only discuss match specifics in a closed room with the

Referee Chairman, T.A. and/or other referees involved with that match.

A casual comment like, “Dang, I should have scored that last head kick!” can — and usually will — come back to bite you.

Don’t let anyone into your ring without your invitation. Includes coaches, tournament staff

Keep your ring area tidy — for safety, as well as for appearance.

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Section 10:

What’s Next?

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What’s Next?

As a corner judge, you need to have a basic understanding of the Competition Rules, especially those that are referenced in this course.

Get a copy of the complete USAT Competition Rules.

Read them through from time to time — especially before competitions.

Observe the application of the rules in competitions you attend.

Ask an experienced referee to explain anything that may be unclear to you.

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What’s Next?

If you want to venture into the center of the ring, you need to have a thorough understanding of the Competition Rules and match management procedures. Attend a USAT-sanctioned referee seminar. Study the Competition Rules diligently. Referee at as many USAT events as possible. Practice, practice, practice!

Repeat #1, 2, 3 and 4, above.

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A Well-Marked Path

USAT D, C, B and A levels (two steps each level)

Earn promotion by attending seminars and referee camps, and participating in recognized events.

As you advance, you’ll be invited to Qualifiers, then Juniors, then Nationals — and eventually, Team Trials.

World Taekwondo Federation Recommended USAT A-level Referees can

become International Referees

3rd Class, 2nd Class, 1st Class, Special Class

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Your Referee Development Team

USAT Referee Co-Chairs

Anne Chase

[email protected]

Myung Chan Kim

[email protected]

USAT Membership Services Manager

Casey Miller

[email protected]

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mailto:[email protected]



Documents

USAT Referee Development Program Seminar Rev. 25—3/27/15