TOURNAMENT RULES

Please note the following regarding Kumite matches:

• A mouthguard is REQUIRED for all kumite competitors.
• For adult competitors: non-injurious, light, controlled “touch” contact to the face, head, and neck is allowed (but not to the throat). Where contact is deemed too strong by the referee, a warning will be given.
• For junior competitors: very minimal to no contact to the head, face, or neck (including the face mask) is allowed with hand techniques, or Jodan (high) kicks. Jodan kicks may make the lightest touch (“skin touch”) and still score, but cannot be direct impact. Any more than a skin touch will require a warning/penalty, or disqualification from the match if deemed necessary.
• Malicious or excessive contact can result in immediate disqualification.

This tournament uses the W.K.F. 2023 rules as a guide.  Please see a summary of the rules below:

KATA AND KOBUDO:

1. Kata will be judged on the basis of age and skill level. The judge’s knowledge of the particular kata performed should not be considered.
2. The scoring will be on a 10 point decimal system. In order to maintain consistency, ranges of acceptable scores for specific age and skill levels will be provided to judges prior to competition.
3. One start over will be allowed. In adult categories, points may be deducted by the judges for a start over.
4. When a competitor makes a mistake, the judges’ most important consideration should be how well s/he recovers. A recovery without acknowledgement of error should be scored as though no error was made. Acknowledging error with facial expression, etc. should receive a lowered score from the judges.
5. Weapon control is of utmost importance in kobudo competition. If a competitor drops or loses control of his/her weapon during a kata, the “kata recovery” rule applies. Each competitor will be expected to complete his/her performance before leaving the ring.
6. Unsportsmanlike conduct will result in being excused from the event and/or further competition, depending on the judges’ and tournament arbitrator’s decision.
7. Ring etiquette will be considered when performance is evaluated. Remember, your kata begins when you sit down at the ring, and ends when your group is excused from the ring.
8. All competitors and judges shall be suitably attired when competing and judging. They may be allowed to wear uniforms that are appropriate to their style or system, but their uniforms can in no way be harmful or offensive to themselves or others.

KUMITE (SPARRING):

1. Matches will be the traditional 5 points or 3 minutes running time for kids and 8 points or 5 minutes for adults.
2. Foam-dipped hand guards, head gear and mouthpieces (or face shields) are required for all competitors. Groin protectors are required/suggested for all male competitors. Chest protection is recommended for female competitors.
3. Eyeglasses are not allowed. Soft contact lenses are allowed at the competitor’s risk.  The wearing of jewelry or any object that may present a hazard to the wearer or his/her opponent will not be allowed.
4. For adult competitors, non-injurious, light, controlled “touch” contact to the face, head, and neck is allowed (but not to the throat). Where contact is deemed too strong by the referee, a warning will be given.  For junior competitors, very minimal to no-contact to the head, face, or neck (including the face mask) is allowed with hand techniques, or Jodan (high) kicks. Jodan kicks may make the lightest touch (“skin touch”) and still score, but cannot be direct impact. Any more than a skin touch will require a warning/penalty, or disqualification from the match if deemed necessary.
5. Only the Referee may stop time (i.e., equipment repair, injury or safety of the competitors).
6. Flags will be raised at the center judge’s call; no late flags allowed.
7. Points will be awarded when a technique is performed according to the following criteria to a scoring area: (a) good form, (b) sporting attitude, (c) vigorous application, (d) awareness (zanshin), (e) good timing, and (f) correct distance. The scoring areas are limited to the following: (a) head, (b) face, (c) abdomen, (d) chest, and (f) side.
8. Points shall be awarded as follows: (a) one point shall be awarded for a chudan or jodan punch or strik; (b) two points shall be awarded for a chudan kick; and (b) three points shall be awarded for a jodan kick.
9. Penalties will be awarded for the following offenses: (a) excessive contact, (b) unsportsmanlike behavior (i.e. – calling your own point, talking in the ring, receiving coaching from the side), (c) uncontrolled techniques, and (d) techniques to illegal targets.
10. Penalties will be awarded as follows:

1st offense – warning
2nd offense – point awarded
3rd offense – disqualification

1. Controlled sweeps to the back/sides of the lower front leg to unbalance an opponent will be allowed only if followed immediately by an attempt to score a point with a strike or kick. Violations will result in disqualification.
2. In the event of a tie, there will be a 30-second rest period, following which the first point scored will win.
3. No coaching or outside interference from the sidelines.
4. All competitors and judges shall be suitably attired when competing and judging. They may wear uniforms that are appropriate to their style or system, but their uniforms can in no way be harmful or offensive to themselves or others.