ATA Tournament Rules for 2020-2022

The 2020-2022 Tournament Season will end on Sunday, May 1, 2022. The final day for ATA Licensees to host a sanctioned Class “C” event will be April 15, 2022.  All tournaments held after those dates will have points posted in the following season’s standings.

*ATA International reserves the right to make changes or adjustments to the rules & procedures as it sees fit during the competition season*

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'''Unless it is expressly stated that something is permissible in these rules, it is illegal.”  If you are unsure about a particular situation, submit your question in writing to ATACMRivera@gmail.com. 

Table of Contents

Section 1 - TOURNAMENT OFFICIALS AND THEIR DUTIES

Section 2 - DUTIES OF ATA SENIOR INSTRUCTORS AND JUDGES

Section 3 - JUDGING LEVELS AND CERTIFICATIONS

Section 4 - UNIFORMS, SAFETY EQUIPMENT & WEAPONS

Section 5 - COMPETITION OPPORTUNITIES

Section 6 - COMPETITION DIVISIONS AND RING ASSIGNMENTS

Section 7 - TOURNAMENT STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES

Section 8 - TRADITIONAL FORM COMPETITION

Section 9 - TRADITIONAL WEAPONS COMPETITION

Section 10 - COMBAT WEAPONS SPARRING COMPETITION

Section 11 - TRADITIONAL POINT SPARRING / ONE-STEP COMPETITION

Section 12 - ATA-CREATIVE COMPETITION

Section 13 - ATA-XTREME COMPETITION

Section 14 - ATA TEAM SPARRING COMPETITION

Section 15 - ATA TIGER COMPETITION

Section 16 - SPECIAL ABILITIES COMPETITION

Section 17 - CHAMPION PROGRAMS

Section 18 - STATE CHAMPIONSHIP PROGRAM

Section 19 - DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP PROGRAM

Section 20 - WORLD CHAMPION PROGRAM

Section 21 - TEAM SYNCHRONIZED COMPETITION

Section 22 - TEAM DEMONSTRATION COMPETITION

Section 23 - MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION

SECTION 1 - TOURNAMENT OFFICIALS AND THEIR DUTIES

As in every organization, there is a specific and detailed chain of command that must be followed to achieve consistent success. Any person having a question concerning an aspect of a tournament should adhere to the chain of command listed below to obtain the answer:

1. Speak to the judge.
2. Ask your instructor.
3. Have one’s instructor speak to the RTTL in one’s area.
4. Have one’s instructor speak to the Tournament Department at Headquarters.

International Chairman of Tournaments

The International Chairman of Tournaments is the overseer of all aspects of tournaments. He/she is part of the ATA International Headquarters staff and is appointed by ATA International Headquarters. The Tournament Department is responsible for maintaining all tournament sanction paperwork, the oversight of tournament judging certification, the preparation for world and national tournaments, the arbitration of disputes, and rule revisions. The International Chairman of Tournaments is:

Chief Master Betsy Stevens - 8th Degree Black Belt  - Betsy.Stevens@ataonline.com

Authority of the International Tournament Director

The International Tournament Director is the final arbiter of these rules. Any determination concerning the interpretation, applicability or necessary exceptions to the rules shall be made in the sole discretion of the International Tournament Director.

National Tournament Director

A National Tournament Director is appointed by the Grand Master of Songahm Taekwondo with the input of the International Chairman of Tournaments based upon their experience with the individual and any recommendations of the organization’s seniors. This person is in charge of the general operations of world and national tournaments and supplies a great deal of input on operation procedures and rule revisions. The ATA currently has two National Tournament Directors and several Assistant National Tournament Directors.

USA - National Directors of Tournaments (NTD) at this time are:

Chief Master Izel Rivera - 8th Degree Black Belt

Senior Master Kelly Harman - 7th Degree Black Belt

USA - Assistant National Tournament Directors:

Senior Master Jack Hornbuckle - 7th Degree Black Belt

Senior Master Michelle Pavlik - 7th Degree Black Belt

European - National Tournament Director:

Mr. Antonio Monteiro - 6th Degree Black Belt

Australian - National Tournament Director: 

Ms. Suzie Sanfort - 5th Degree Black Belt

South American - National Tournament Director:

Master Rodolpho Cavenatti - 6th Degree Black Belt

Director of Development -Team Sync and Team Demo - Chief Master Scott Skiles - 8th Degree Black Belt

Director of Development - Team Sparring - Master Jesse Isaacs - 6th Degree Black Belt

National Tournament Staff - Master Kevin Pavlik - 6th Degree Black Belt

Regional Tournament Team Leader

The Regional Tournament Team Leader (RTTL) for each region is appointed by the Grand Master in consultation with the International Chairman of Tournaments. This volunteer leadership position is based upon the International Chairman's experience with the individual, the person's willingness to volunteer, plus the recommendation of the seniors of the region.

The duties of this position vary according to the region in which they are involved. These duties include, but are not limited to:

• Approving the tournament sanction documents for his/her region.
• Verifying that tournament sites are adequate for a regional event.
• Planning and approving the competition schedule for regional tournaments.
• Organizing and running the regional tournaments including arbitration issues that may arise.
• Administering judging certification clinics and tests.
• The RTTL will send the original result sheets, packets (competitor slips) and tournament staff sheet to ATA Headquarters within seven business days of the event at the tournament host's expense.
• The RTTL will keep the copy of the result sheets for at least two years in case of association research needs.
• The RTTL will email data files within two business days of the tournament.

One should check with one’s instructor as to the region in which the student belongs. 

 The Regional Tournament Team Leaders for the 2020-2021 season are listed below:

Assistant Regional Tournament Team Leader

Many regions have elected to ask for volunteers to serve as Assistant Regional Tournament Team Leaders or as part of the Regional Tournament Volunteer Staff.

Two main reasons for this are:

• The enormous responsibility of running regional tournaments.
• To provide a training ground for future volunteer Regional Tournament Team Leaders.

Assistant Regional Tournament Team Leaders, whose names are suggested by the RTTL,  are selected by the Grand Master in consultation with the  International Chairman of Tournaments based upon the chairperson's experience with the individual, the person's willingness to volunteer, plus the recommendation of the seniors of the region.

The responsibilities of these assistants are assigned by Regional Tournament Team Leaders.

One should check with their instructor as to the name of the Assistant Regional Tournament Team Leader and the Regional Tournament Volunteer Staff members for one’s region.

Tournament Arbitrators

The position of Tournament Arbitrator is a temporary volunteer assignment during an individual tournament. It is not a permanent volunteer position. The International Chairman of Tournaments or the Regional Tournament Team Leader is in charge of supervising the event and the arbitrators are under their guidance. If a tournament arbitrator is used for a tournament they should be selected from the tournament staff. During National or World Tournaments, the International Chairman of Tournaments, the National Tournament Director and/or the Assistant National Tournament Directors will perform the duties of arbitrator. Under no circumstances should a senior/master of a region take it upon his/herself to arbitrate a ruling in a ring.  He/She may ask for a ring to stop for the purpose of getting the tournament arbitrator to the ring.

 An arbitrator is responsible for:

• Supervising assigned rings and for enforcement of tournament rules.
• He/she will make on-the-spot corrections and will assist in resolving problems in a diplomatic and respectful manner.
• If necessary, he/she may suggest to the RTTL to replace a judge for appropriate cause. He/She may not replace a judge without first consulting the RTTL.
• And all other duties as assigned

Tournament Secretary / ATA Records / Data Entry Personnel

The tournament staff includes the tournament secretary, and Data Entry Personnel.  These are volunteer positions to the RTTL and approved by the International Chairman of Tournaments. These persons duties include, but are not limited to:

• Staffing the control table at all times until all results and all entry cards have been returned from all the rings
• Entering all packets and results into the FilemakerPro system
• Provide a check-out/check-in system to be certain that all packets have gone out and results have been returned.
• Check all returned packets for complete/correct information.
• Packets that are incorrect and/or incomplete should be returned to the center judge of that division for corrections.
• If results are missing, tournament officials shall assume that the fault is that of the center judge rather than the secretary.

SECTION 2 - DUTIES OF ATA SENIORS, INSTRUCTORS, AND JUDGES

General Guidelines

It is the duty of all adult black belts, regardless of rank or position, to earn appropriate judging levels and volunteer to judge at any ATA event they are attending. This rule applies to every black belt in attendance. One should check with his/her instructor for guidance on how to obtain appropriate chevrons.

All adult black belts shall arrive before the judge's meeting held at every regional event, attend the meeting, and remain at the tournament until the final “Bow-out” has been completed. Under “Special Circumstances” they may attempt to receive permission to leave early from the RTTL and the Senior Rank in attendance . It is the duty of every senior instructor to ensure that their junior instructors and black belts comply with this rule. Failure to do so will result in forfeiture of any points earned at that event and repeatedly leaving early can lead to additional sanctions from the ATA's tournament department.

Senior instructors shall refrain from interfering in the competition. If anyone, especially a Senior Rank, feels there is a problem in the ring they shall notify the RTTL. He/she should NOT enter a ring, or take any further action unless instructed. Any person may ask that a ring be suspended for a rule violation arbitration, and/or safety issue until the appropriate RTTL staff members can be notified.

If a black belt does not follow proper protocol at the tournament, the following steps will be taken:

• For the first infraction the RTTL will speak to the competitor involved, discuss the proper expectations of an adult black belt, and notify the student’s instructor.
• Any further occurrences will result in a letter being written to the student with copies to that student’s senior instructor and the tournament department at National Headquarters advising them of the repercussions for future occurrences of the behavior.
  • The possible consequences include, but are not limited to the following:
    • For adult black belts arriving late, the RTTL will determine if they will be allowed to compete. Black belts who are repeatedly late for tournaments and black belt meetings will, at the discretion of the RTTL be denied permission to compete.
    • Those who leave early may forfeit any or all top ten points earned up to and including those earned on that date toward any championship program (state or world champion top ten.) This decision on the number of points to be removed is at the sole discretion of the International Chairman of Tournaments.

Black Belt Meetings

All black belts ages 15 and above, eligible for chevrons and regardless of rank, are required to attend the Black Belt Meeting held prior to the beginning of each tournament.  Any black belt mentioned above may be denied the right to compete if he/she does not attend this meeting.  This decision is at the discretion of the RTTL in charge of that event.  Jr. Black Belts age 14 and under are encouraged, but not required, to attend Black Belt Meetings.

The Regional Tournament Team Leader or his/her assistant is to coordinate a Black Belt judges meeting prior to every regional tournament. The purpose of such meeting is to:

• Address judging concerns and any rule clarifications.
• Make special announcements concerning the tournament.
• Make judging assignments.
• Begin the process of black belt competition assignments.
• Remind Judges of the safety compliance rules.

Dress Code at an ATA Tournament

Black belts are held to a higher standard, in regards to their attire and conduct, due to their position in the organization and in the eyes of the color belt students. Black Belts in attendance (whether competing or not) should wear either a traditional white dobok or certified instructor suit. Black belts in attendance should remain in this attire until they are dismissed from the event.  Changing into “street clothes” is not acceptable.

Before and after their competition, color belts may wear regular “street” clothes, bearing in mind appropriate styles for the occasion.  Shorts/tank tops etc. are never acceptable.

The dress code for tournaments  does not change for tournaments held over multiple days.  NO INSTRUCTOR should arrive in “street clothes” so they can “watch” their students. 

It is understood that younger junior black belts have “trouble” keeping nice clothes clean, and they will be given special consideration. Teenagers and above should be able to care for themselves and are expected to comply with the dress requirements. This dress code is in effect from the first appearance at the tournament site until away from the tournament site.

SPECIAL NOTE:  There have been multiple occasions where black belts have been at a tournament, changed because they were “catching a flight soon” or “just here to watch my students''. If a black belt is not in the proper attire because they are leaving, they should exit the facility.  A black belt should not be in attendance just to “watch”. While we all wish to see our child compete, it is not always possible.   All RTTL’s have been asked to be as accommodating as possible for the parents of children under 12. For parents whose children are over the age of 12, fulfilling the judging needs of the tournament is the 1st priority of an RTTL. 

SECTION 3 - JUDGING LEVELS and CERTIFICATIONS

The ATA takes great pride in the training of black belts to be judges at regional, district, national, and world tournaments. Black belts are trained over a period of time to be qualified as a Level 1 Corner Judge, a Level 2 Center Judge, or a Level 3 Chief Judge. Each competition ring (except ATA Tiger rings) will have three qualified black belts to judge the competitors. All certifications are valid for one year. This requirement is mandatory for all ranks 1st through 9th Degree Black Belt. Permission to test will be withheld for those whose judging chevrons are not current.

Note: Judges, whose competition age is 17 or younger, may not judge any division that contains competitors older than their age.  This rule does not apply to adult judges.

Level 1

The following rules and guidelines apply to a Level 1 judge:

• Must be at least 14 years of age, and a 1st Degree Black Belt Decided or higher.
• May corner judge color belt competitions.
• Must know all the following material:
  • All color belt form techniques.
  • One-steps for white, orange and yellow belt ranks.
  • Be familiar with all the weapons allowed for traditional color belt weapons competition.
  • It is highly recommended that any person who desires to certify as a Level 1 Judge have prior tournament experience as a time and score keeper.

A Level 1 judging chevron is a 1-inch wide blue chevron to be put on the right sleeve of the uniform jacket. The chevron should be centered (on a diagonal) on the crease in the right edge 4 inches from the sleeve bottom and on the left edge (as you look at the uniform) 2 inches from the bottom of the sleeve. Wearing of chevrons is not required, but highly recommended.

Level 2

The following rules and guidelines apply to a Level 2 judge:

• Must be at least 16 years of age and a 1st Degree Black Belt Decided or higher.
• May corner judge or center judge for color belt rings.
• May corner judge for black belt rings up to his/her current rank.
• Must know all material required for a Level 1 judge, plus all color belt forms. Must know the black belt forms up to and including his/her current rank.
• Must be knowledgeable in the weapons included in the association’s black belt curriculum for the ranks they are judging.
• It is highly recommended that any person who desires to certify as a Level 2 Judge have prior tournament experience as a Level 1 judge.

A level 2 judging chevron is 1-inch wide red chevron to be placed on the right sleeve of the uniform jacket. This chevron should be placed 1/4 inch above the blue chevron. Wearing of chevrons is not required, but highly recommended.

Level 3

The following rules and guidelines apply to a Level 3 judge:

• Must be at least 18 years of age and a 2nd Degree Black Belt Decided or higher.
• May corner judge or center judge for color belt rings.
• May corner judge black belt rings up to his/her current rank.
• May center judge black belt rings up to one rank lower than his/her current rank.
• Must know all material required for a Level 2 judge.
• It is highly recommended that any person who desires to certify as a Level 3 judge have prior tournament experience as a Level 2 judge.

The level 3 judging chervon is 1-inch wide black chevron to be placed on the right sleeve of the uniform jacket. This chevron should be placed 1/4 inch above the red chevron. Wearing of chevrons is not required, but highly recommended.

Obtaining Judging Level Certifications

The requirements to certify or recertify for any level of judging chevron are the same.

1.  Read the rules.
2.  Receive practical training from their instructor.
3. Students must take and pass with a score of 90% or better, an online test for the appropriate judging certification level.(visit http://www.atatesting.com for the online exam)
4.  Have your instructor’s signature verifying that the students have the curriculum knowledge required for that judging level. 
5. Attend and participate in a judging clinic which emphasizes the practical application of the rules and is taught by an RTTL or the person designated to fill that role. Please, bring a copy of the result sheet from the online test with your instructor's signature which verifies your curriculum knowledge.

At the completion of the chevron clinic, the RTTL will forward all passing scores via mail, fax or email to the tournament department at International Headquarters. At that time, the student may order, through their instructor, the appropriate chevron. The RTTL will not be responsible for collecting money or ordering chevrons for judges. All judging chevron clinics are at no cost to the student.

Only one level of judging chevrons can be obtained in any 30-day period.

Special Notes:

• Instructors may go to this link ( https://ata.wistia.com/projects/dyxwvzvvgg ) for judging videos to facilitate training of their students.
• Attending the black belt meeting the morning of a tournament WILL NOT fulfill the judging clinic attendance requirement for certification or recertification.
• No black belt or Senior Rank should ask or imply that a RTTL should certify or recertify a judge for any level without that person attending a seminar and taking the test regardless of rank or experience.
• Any student, regardless of rank, who, with their instructor’s permission, desires to attend a regional judging certification clinic for practical application of rules is permitted to participate.
• All levels of certification must attend a clinic to renew their judging chevrons.
• Current Level 3 chevrons are required for all persons requesting to test for 4th degree and above.

Responsibilities of Judges

During competition, judges will:

• Remain at their assignment or assigned ring until relieved or replaced by the RTTL or their assistant.
• Refrain from showing prejudice regardless of the students' school or region.
• Recognize that small differences in form technique demonstrated by students from other schools and regions are natural and to be expected.
• Be courteous and respectful to all competitors in both word and deed.
• Ensure the safety and positive experience of every competitor. Ensure that each competitor abides by the official tournament rules.
• Conduct each aspect of competition in the proper order. (See Order of Events)
• Award the correct winners in each division his/her tournament award (trophy or medal).
• Complete the required paperwork for each completed division, and return that signed paperwork to the Regional Tournament Team Leader or their assigns.
• Be responsible for the areas surrounding their ring. In the interest of safety, the judges should make sure that spectators allow ample room around each ring for competition to progress unimpeded. Judgment as to what determines ample room is based on the type of competition taking place.
• Judges who find difficulty in resolving a given problem should ask the Regional Tournament Team Leader or his/her assigns for rulings. 

Judging Ethics

At any ATA tournament, demonstrations of prejudice, lack of attentiveness in the ring, etc.,shall be cause for warnings and reprimands from tournament officials and the International Chairman of Tournaments. The use of cell phones, bluetooth devices, etc. used for the purpose of communication with non-tournament staff, such as sending and receiving text messages, receiving calls, etc. is strictly prohibited for judges as well as scorekeepers and timekeepers during the running of their ring. Failure to follow this rule will subject the offender to immediate disciplinary action by the RTTL. Additional disciplinary actions are determined by the International Chairman of Tournaments and may include mandatory suspension from all official activities, including judging, participating in tournaments and/or testing for two years.

A judge’s focus should be entirely on the competitors in their ring. Any such warnings shall become part of the judge’s permanent record. Three warnings within a one year period of time shall incur disciplinary actions to be brought forth by the International Chairman of Tournaments.

SECTION 4 - UNIFORMS, SAFETY EQUIPMENT & WEAPONS

Traditional White Dobok

An Official ATA uniform is acceptable for all tournament events.

An official traditional uniform MUST:

• Be a white cross-over style top with matching white pants.
• Be in good repair (no holes or frayed edges).
• Have an official ATA patch.

An official traditional uniform MAY  include the following:

• School patch.
• Karate Kid or Tiny Tiger Victory patch. (School patch is permitted on top of Victory patch if it is round and the same size.)
• ATA Tiger animal patch.
• Official ATA program patches:
  • Black Belt Club
  • Master Club
  • Leadership Club.
  • ATA Legacy Patch.
• Uniform Lettering:
  • If the Dobok is lettered, that lettering on the back of the uniform top must be in compliance with ATA standards.
  • All State, District & World Champion uniforms must be done by World Martial Arts to ensure validity.
  • No alterations of “years” or “patches” is allowed. Use of an "altered year or patch" on a uniform will nullify the awarding of any byes in sparring or combat sparring.
• 4th Degree Black Belts or higher will wear a 1" black stripe on the side of each pant leg.
• Undershirts are permitted for any member (male or female) but must be plain white. Undershirts are NOT a requirement for females, although a plain white garment is encouraged.
• Other patches allowed are:
  • W.A.T.
  • E.L.T.A.
  • A-Team.
  • President’s Council on Physical Fitness.
  • Demo Team.
  • Competition Team.
• Leadership Collar Stripes:
  • Red/White/Blue Collar for leadership students.
  • Blue stars (round patches) used to measure accomplishments set within school or club can be utilized with or without a collar stripe.
  • The following collars may be worn by any student in the leadership program only if and when the student has received a letter from ATA International Headquarters stating that they have been accepted into the Leadership Program.
• Legacy/Instructor Collar Stripes:
  • Black/Red (All students, all belt ranks).
  • Black/Red/Black (All students, all belt ranks).
  • Solid Black (Black Belts only, minimum age of 18).
  • Instructor Collar Stripes shall be worn by Instructors only when they have received a letter from ATA International Headquarters informing them of their successful promotion to that collar level.
• An official traditional uniform MUST NOT have the following:
  • A V-neck pullover top.
  • Stripes, patches, pockets, or anything else not listed above.

It is the ATA Licensee’s decision as to the amount of patches allowed on a uniform for his/her school. A traditional dobok IS REQUIRED to be worn by all competitors and judges during traditional forms, weapons, sparring and combat weapons sparring competition at ATA sanctioned tournaments. It MAY also be worn by competitors involved in ATA-Xtreme forms, ATA-Xtreme weapons, creative forms, creative weapons, and all types of Team competitions. (all members of a team must wear the same uniform)

ATA Creative / ATA-Xtreme Uniform

The official ATA Creative/ Xtreme Black Uniform – Must have the Xtreme logo on the back and Songahm Taekwondo in Korean calligraphy on the leg of the pants. This uniform may be worn by competitors or judges involved in either ATA-Xtreme or ATA-creative events and team synchronized form competition or team demo competition (as long as all members of the team are wearing the same uniform). It may not be worn in traditional forms, weapons, sparring or combat weapons sparring events regardless of whether or not the events are held on the same day. This uniform may not be altered in any way, including but not limited to rolled sleeves.

The New Adidas Black Uniform, used for Creative/Xtreme competitions, may be altered to shorten the sleeves as long as the altered sleeve reaches the midpoint of the competitor's forearm - meaning the overall length of the sleeve is no shorter than the midpoint between the bend of the wrist and the bend of the elbow.  If the sleeve is not altered, the competitor may roll the sleeve under one time.

SPECIAL NOTE:   If, in the opinion of the center judge, the altered sleeve does not reach the midpoint of the forearm, the competitor will be asked to change back into his/her white traditional uniform. At this time, the RTTL should be notified by the center judge. Failure to change uniforms will result in the competitor being removed from competitions.  Any fees paid for this competition will be forfeited by the competitor.

Team Sparring Uniform

Teams may elect to wear one of the new Adidas Team Uniforms beginning with the 2020-2021 season.  Uniforms may have Team Names, participant names and team titles sewn by WMA on the backs of the uniforms.  The team uniforms come in the colors, blue, black, red, or white.  All Team members must be in the same color uniform. Team uniforms MAY NOT be worn in traditional, creative, or xtreme competitions. 

ATA Tiger Uniform

There are two different traditional uniforms a tiger competitor may wear, the traditional uniform or the  ATA Tiger uniform. Only students competing as a tiger may wear the ATA Tiger uniform. The ATA Tiger uniform may not be worn in a junior division

Belts

For tigers competitors, only the following colors and marking are permitted:

• The ATA Tiger belts.
• Traditional color belts, see below.

For color belts, only the following colors and markings are permitted:

• White, orange, yellow, camo, green, purple, blue, brown, red, red/black, black.(Some licensees use plain black belts instead of red/black belts for recommended black belt ranks.)
• “Knowledge Stripes” (color belts only) MUST be black and are limited to a maximum of 3 stripes. Color belts MAY include either a black or gold stripe the length of the belt.
• 1BR Black Belts MAY wear full black belts that do not have embroidery.
• NO other belt colors, combinations, or stripe colors are allowed.

 For black belts, the following rules for markings apply:

• Any and all embroidery MUST be gold.
• If a rank indicator is used, it MUST be the bar or star patch from World Martial Arts.
• Student’s name and rank MUST both be on the same end of the belt (left end when worn).
• Black Belts MUST NOT have “Knowledge Stripes.”

Tang Bagee Pants

Tang Bagee (“hakama”) all black, including the pleats, pants may only be worn when competing with the Gum Do weapon. The judges will not pause the ring for a competitor to put on Tang Bagee pants. Pants should touch the top of the competitor’s instep. 

Shoes

The only shoes acceptable to wear with any ATA uniform, traditional, creative or xtreme, are those that are predominantly white or black sports shoes.  ATA sliders are acceptable. Other color sports shoes, flip flops, shadles, etc. are not acceptable.

For judges in their dobok, you must be barefoot or wearing athletic shoes. ATA sliders are not acceptable footwear for judges who are wearing a dobok.

Competitor Appearance During Competition

The following is a guide for proper appearance while competing at an ATA Tournament:

• During the competition, competitors will wear clean, pressed ATA uniforms.
• A competitor may roll under the sleeves of the traditional white uniform only one time and may not roll under the sleeves of the black creative and extreme uniform.
• An ATA patch is required on each white uniform for competitors excluding white belts.
• All other lettering, striping, and patches must be in good repair and positioned according to ATA guidelines.
• NO JEWELRY is allowed once a student puts on their uniform or during competition. This includes watches, rings, earrings, or other piercing (male or female), necklaces, etc. Wedding rings may be worn if taped or the stone turned toward the palm as well as medical bracelets and mandated religious medals. This is for the safety of the wearer as well as other competitors. Master Instructors are allowed to wear their Master's ring while not competing.
• Fingernails and toenails should be trimmed for safety as well.

Required Safety Gear

The following safety gear is required by all competitors in a sparring competition including combat weapon sparring:

• Dipped foam or vinyl covered hand pads (all finger joints must be covered when a fist is made).
• Dipped foam or vinyl covered foot pads (back of heel & all toes must be covered).
• Dipped foam or vinyl covered martial arts style foam headgear with attached plastic face shield. (full coverage).
• Attached face shield MUST be one of these six models:
  • ATA Champion face shield. (The Champion face shield is not allowed for combat weapon sparring competition)
  • Dyna Rival face shield.
  • ProForce Lightning Clear face shield.
  • Ventilator face shield.
  • Universal face shield.
  • Tiger Claw face shield.
• Black martial arts style chest protector with an ATA logo. It must cover all ribs and sternum and be worn over the uniform top.
• Mouthpiece (even while wearing the mandatory face shield).
• Groin protector (cup and supporter) for males (NO age exceptions / MUST be worn under uniform pants).
• No additional stickers, decorations or adornments may be added to the required safety gear.

All gear MUST be in good repair. (Torn, taped, or worn out gear will NOT be allowed). No one, including Instructors or parents, can give permission to alter the rules pertaining to the use and wearing of safety gear. A competitor who does not have all of his/her proper equipment may borrow from another competitor or purchase the equipment at the event if possible, however, it is not required that one student lend another student his/her gear.

Color of Safety Gear

The following guidelines apply to the color of safety gear:

• Color belts MUST wear either red or black safety gear.
• Black belts MUST wear BLACK safety gear.
• Hand, foot and head gear must match in color.
• All gear MUST have the ATA logo on it.

If a competitor has mismatched safety gear or gear of the wrong color, the student will be allowed to compete. It should be brought to the attention of the RTTL and a note made on the outside of the ring packet. The RTTL will address the issue with the student's instructor. That day, a competitor with illegal or mismatched gear may borrow from others in the ring so they may compete. If, after consulting with the competitor’s instructor, the student continues to arrive at tournaments with incorrect gear, they may be prevented from competing.

Types of Weapons

ATA competition weapons include the following:

• Bahng Mahng Ee.
• Ssahng Jeol Bong.
• Jahng Bong.
• Ssahng Nat (This is a double weapon only and may not be used as a single weapon during any type of competition).
• Jee Pahng Ee (The rubber cap on the end must be removed).
• Gum Do.
• Oh Sung Do (This is a single weapon only. OSD flags are recommended to balance the sword properly. Flags should be 12-inch squares and colors should be yellow, red, blue).
• Sam Dan Bong.

Style of Weapons

During a weapon's competition, there are three styles of weapons that may be used.

• ATA Protech safety weapons. These weapons may be black, blue, or red in color.
• ATA Xtreme weapons, including X5 weapons.
• Exempted from classification:
  • Jahng Bong
  • Jee Pahng Ee
• Gum Do Sword have three classifications:
  • ATA Protech safety sword (plastic sword)
  • ATA Xtreme sword
  • ATA branded sword that is an advanced Protech training sword.

Note:

• The “collapsible” Ssahng Nat are considered Protech safety weapons.
• An ATA approved Combat Bahng Mahng Ee may not be used in traditional forms competition.

Size of Weapons

• Single or Double Bahng Mahng Ee (This does not include combat Bahng Mahng Ee):
  • If a competitor is under 60” tall, they MAY use either 21” or 25” weapon.
  • If a competitor is 60” or over, they MUST use a 25” weapon.
• Single or Double Ssahng Jeol Bong:
  • If a competitor is under 60” tall, they MAY use either 9” or 12” weapon.
  • If a competitor is 60” or over, they MUST use a 12” weapon.
• Jahng Bong:
  • Color Belts: Length of weapon MUST be at least shoulder height.
  • Black Belt Mid-Range: Length of weapon MUST be at least shoulder height.
  • Black Belt Long-Range: Length of weapon MUST be at least 4” taller than a competitor.
  • There is no maximum length for this weapon.
  • Minimum height requirement is suspended if it requires a Jahng Bong over 7 feet long
• Ssahng Nat:
  • If a competitor is under 60” tall, they MAY use either 9” or 12” weapon.
  • If a competitor is 60” or over, they MUST use a 12” weapon.
• Jee Pahng Ee:
  • No restrictions on size as long as the weapon is a functional length.
• Gum Do:
  • Color Belts: No length requirement. See your instructor for appropriate length.
  • Black Belts: The act of sheathing and unsheathing the Gum Do is an integral aspect of a Gum Do presentation. The current lengths are 29, 32, 35, and 41 inches. The length of the weapon to be used is determined by the student standing at attention with the sword (not in the sheath) gripped at the guard and held downward and relaxed at a 45-degree angle. The tip of the sword should be approximately ½” to 1” from the ground. If the tip of the sword is more than 1 inch from the ground, the next length of Gum Do should be used.
  • A competitor must use the sheath that is provided with the weapon. Example: A 35-inch weapon cannot be used with a 41-inch sheath.
• Oh Sung Do:
  • No restrictions on size.
• Sam Dam Bong:
  • No restrictions on size.

Adornment Restrictions

Decorating a weapon is defined as:

Putting anything on the weapon that was not included in the manufacturing of the weapon. Using two weapons that are identical except for the color falls under the category of decorated weapons.

Altering the weapon is defined as:

Changing the weapon from its original size, shape, or form by any means.

• For traditional weapons competition (all ranks),
  • The weapon must not be decorated in any fashion.
  • The weapon must not be altered in any fashion.
• For creative & ATA-Xtreme weapons competition (all ranks)
  • The weapon MAY be decorated. If in the opinion of the RTTL, the decorations alter the weapon, the weapon will not be allowed to be used in competition. The decision of the RTTL is final.
  • Using two weapons that are identical except for the color falls under the category of decorated weapons. Therefore, it is allowed in creative and xtreme weapon competition, but not in traditional weapons competition.
  • The weapons must not be altered in any fashion.
• Grip tape is allowed on all weapons, but must not alter the shape or reduce the size of the weapon. This includes combat weapons.
• Weapons used in competition will not have “knowledge” stripes on them.

SECTION 5 - COMPETITION OPPORTUNITIES

Tournament Classifications

The ATA provides many opportunities for members to compete at a variety of levels. Currently, there are five classifications of tournaments. Check ATAMartialArts.com (www.atamartialarts.com) for the date of these events each year.

The classifications are:

• Class AAA Tournament: World Championships hosted by the Grand Master of Songahm Taekwondo.
• Class AA Tournament: Fall and Spring Nationals hosted by the Grand Master of Songahm Taekwondo and the Pan American Championships.
• Class A Regional Tournament: Regional Tournaments hosted around the country by qualifying ATA Licensee, the European Championships, and the Asia Pacific Championships.
• Class B Regional Tournament: Regional Tournaments hosted around the country by qualifying ATA Licensee.
• Class C Tournament: In-School Tournaments hosted by individual ATA Licensee.

Aspects of Competition

There are currently eight different competitive events in which a student can compete at every ATA sanctioned tournament. Those events are:

1. Traditional Forms.
2. Traditional Weapons.
3. ATA-Combat Weapons Sparring.
4. Traditional Point Sparring / Traditional One-Steps.
5. ATA-Creative Forms.
6. ATA-Creative Weapons.
7. ATA-Xtreme Forms.
8. ATA-Xtreme Weapons.

There are currently two team competitions which will be held at every ATA sanctioned Regional, National, or World tournament. Those events are:

1. Team Sparring
2. Team Combat Sparring

 At National and World events there are two team creative/xtreme competitions. Those events are:

1. Team Sync
2. Team Demo

Participants are not required to compete in all aspects of competition. The student should consult his/her instructor to determine the extent of his/her participation at every event. An instructor or judge should not force or intimidate students into something in which they are not confident.

SECTION 6 - COMPETITION DIVISIONS AND RING ASSIGNMENTS

Permission / Eligibility to Compete

THIS APPLIES TO ALL STUDENTS REGARDLESS OF RANK

To compete in any sanctioned Songahm Taekwondo event, a competitor must comply with all three of the following requirements:

1. Be a member in good standing of the ATA.
   • In good standing means that any member regardless of rank belt or leadership collar, must have a current membership with the organization.
   • Competitors should check their personal profile online to monitor their expiration date.  Anyone in a Champions Division who places 1st-2nd-3rd in any event will not have their points posted online by the tournament department. Those competitors will have the same 30-day period after the points are posted for that tournament to rectify the issue or forfeit the points they would have earned.  It is to be treated like any other point correction.  It is the responsibility of the competitor, or his/her guardian, or his/her instructor to check the profile of the competitor and update their ATA membership.  For questions on how to find one’s profile, members may send an email to tournaments@ataonline.com requesting help and include a contact phone number.  A member of the tournament department will call you to help as soon as possible upon receiving the request.
2. Be a member and train regularly at an ATA licensed school or club.
3. Have his/her instructor’s permission to attend and compete.

Failure to comply with any of the three requirements listed above will result in the competitor being denied the opportunity to compete, or if discovered after the completion of the event, any points or place winnings will be nullified. The eligibility requirement is applicable for all competition divisions including Traditional Forms, Traditional One-Step Sparring, Traditional Point Sparring, Traditional Weapons, ATA-Xtreme Forms, ATA- Xtreme Weapons, Creative Forms, Creative Weapons, Combat Weapons Sparring, Team Synchronized Forms, Team Demo Competitions and Team Sparring/Combat Competitions. This rule will also apply to all future competition divisions.

Division Definitions

Divisions are classified as either “CHAMPION” or “RECREATIONAL”.

Champion Divisions are a higher competitive level and provide the competitor opportunities to earn points towards State titles as well as eligibility toward District/World Tournament of Champion titles.  The first/second/third place winners, who are registered in the OFFICIAL ATA LEADERSHIP/LEGACY Program at ATA HQ, will be eligible to earn points, depending upon the tournament classification, and other guidelines.  See Championship Program.

Recreational Divisions, formerly referred to in previous seasons as NOVICE divisions, do not award points regardless of the competitors age, rank, or status in the ATA Official Leadership/Legacy Program. See RECREATIONAL BLACK BELT DIVISIONS for additional guidelines.

One can check their Program Status viewing their ATA Member Profile at www.ATAMartialArts.com. All Tiger Divisions are Recreational divisions.

Competition Rank

All Rank Competitors:

For all Regional/National/World tournaments student is considered to have earned their rank when either of the following criteria have been met:

• Rank testing is submitted and processed by the ATA School Licensing Department.
• The student is given his/her new rank belt by their instructor.

For the District Championships, the competitors rank/belt is determined by their Official Rank/Belt listed at ATA HQ by May 15th of the current tournament season. See District Championships for additional District guidelines.

Color Belt Competitors:

Color belt competitors must wear the proper belt and compete in the division for the rank that they currently hold regardless of how long they have held that rank. A student should take pride in what they have earned and be honored to wear the correct belt. If the student has been awarded a rank at their school, they should wear that belt even if the instructor has not “officially” sent in the results to headquarters.

Example #1:  A new camo belt is not comfortable with free-sparring; he/she may choose to only compete in the form and/or weapons portion of the competition. He/She should not wear their yellow belt.

1st Degree Recommended Black Belts may choose to either compete with either Color Belts or with Black Belts at any tournament. 

At each tournament, Recommended Black Belt students  have a choice to participate as a Color Belt or as a Black Belt but not as both. If a student participates as a Black Belt for one event in a tournament, then they must participate as a Black Belt for all events at that tournament. Conversely, if a student competes as a Color Belt for one event in a tournament, then they must compete as a Color Belt for all events at that tournament. (Traditional and Creative/Xtreme) If a Recommended Black Belt competes in a Color Belt Division, his/her TOP TEN State or World points for that tournament will not be moved to a Black Belt Division. 

The following Guidelines apply if a Recommended Black Belt Competes in a 1st Degree Decided Black Belt Division:

1. For Traditional Forms Competition, he/she may perform either the Choong Jung 2, Choong Jung 1, or In Wha 2.
1. He/she may not compete with a lower belt form or with the 1st Degree form, Shim Jun.
2. If he/she chooses to compete in Traditional Weapons, he/she must compete with one of the 5 approved 1st Degree Decided Weapons forms. Those weapons forms are for:
1. Single Ssahng Jeol Bong, Single Bahng Mahng Ee, Oh Sung Do, Gum Do, or Mid-range Jahng Bong
2. The competitor may not replace one of these forms with the color belt 30-seconds of free style exhibition.
3. In order to compete at Districts and or Tournament of Champions, in the 1st Degree division, the competitor must obtain his/her 1st Degree Black Belt Decided , and it must be recorded at ATA HQ  by May 15th of the competition season. Failure to meet this requirement will result in forfeiture of all State/World Top Ten Points, thus making the competitor ineligible for Districts and/or World TOC competitions as a black belt competitor.
4. At the Worlds “Tournament of Champions” competition, the 1st Degree Form, Shim Jun, must be performed in order to earn a World Champion Title. No color belt form can be performed at the Worlds “Tournament of Champions”. 
• The above guideline, referring to the form that may be presented, does not apply to the District Championships.

***Special Note:  If a 1st Degree Recommended Black Belt competes at a tournament in the 1st degree division, he/she may also compete in Team Sparring/Team Combat.  If he/she competes as a Color Belt at that tournament, he/she is not eligible to compete in Team Sparring/Team Combat at that tournament.       (See Team Sparring/Team Combat Rules)

Black Belts Competitors:

Competitors that are 1st Degree Decided Black Belt rank or higher who are planning to test for a higher rank during the current tournament season, MAY opt to compete in the next higher rank division. If a black belt chooses to compete in a higher rank division,and qualifies to compete at Worlds in the Tournament of Champions (TOC), he/she must obtain the Decided Rank of that division, and compete with one of the forms of that division at the TOC.  Failure to meet this requirement will result in forfeiture of that person’s eligibility to compete in the TOC.

See State and World Champion programs for additional information.

District Competition has specific rank rules and dates. Please see the District Championship section in these rules for exact information.

Competition Age

A competitor's competition age is determined by their age as of 11:59 pm, December 31st of the tournament season. The age that they are at on that date will indicate the division in which they should compete in throughout the entire tournament season.

General Procedure for Creating Divisions

Division breakdowns are handled by the Regional Tournament Team Leader or his/her assigns. The one rule that is standard is that divisions at regional tournaments will be limited to no more than 12 competitors.

The following procedure will be followed to divide divisions for regional tournaments.

• The competitors will be called to the “staging area” or a specific ring. This area is usually separate from the main competition floor.
• The divisions will be made according to the number of competitors in each of the age and rank groups.
• NO ONE (Competitors, Parents, ATA Seniors, or Spectators) will attempt to influence the Regional Tournament Team Leader (or his/her assigns) in the forming of divisions.
  • This includes asking the RTTL to make adjustments to competition ring assignments to accommodate their travel schedule.

Black Belt Divisions

The divisions for the black belts are set by the International Tournament Department and are designed to give everyone an equal chance. Divisions are based on gender, the age of the competitors, and rank. At the conclusion of each tournament season, the International Chairman of Tournaments will evaluate the number of competitors in each division and determine if any changes are to be made for subsequent tournament seasons. The current Black Belt divisions for individual competition in Traditional Forms, Traditional Point Sparring, Traditional Weapons, Combat Weapons Sparring, Creative Forms and Weapons and Xtreme Forms and Weapons events are:

Junior Boys

Junior Girls

Adult Men

Adult Women

Guidelines for Dividing or Combining Champion Black Belt Rings

The black belt age divisions, 59 and under, will be strictly followed at National and World events. However, even at National/World events the 60 and above age divisions may be combined. On a regional level, however, it is often difficult to strictly follow these divisions. On a regional level, black belt divisions MAY be combined. The Regional Tournament Team Leader (or their assigns) has the ability to combine divisions where necessary. They will follow the guidelines given to them by the International Chairman of Tournaments.

Notes: 

• For black belts, genders may not be combined.
• Junior black belt age divisions must never be combined.
• Junior black belt rank groups can be combined when one or more “rank group” within that age division does not contain at least five competitors. This type of combing is only applicable for competitors of the same age and gender. Consider the following cases:
  • Case 1: One rank group has only 1 competitor, and one rank group has 5 or more competitors. Combine for one ring of 1st/2nd/3rd degrees. If the combined ring has 13 or more competitors, line up by height and divide.
    • Recommended Black Belts choosing to compete in a 1st Degree decided ring, are included in this scenario and should be made aware of this possibility by his/her instructor.
  • Case 2: One rank group has 2 to 4 competitors, and one rank group has 5 or more competitors. Do not combine.
  • Case 3: Both rank groups have 1 to 4 competitors. Combine to make one ring of 1st/2nd/3rd degrees.
    • Recommended Black Belts choosing to compete in a 1st Degree decided ring, are included in this scenario and should be made aware of this possibility by his/her instructor.
  • Adult black belt age and rank divisions may be combined.
  • Adult rank groups may be combined at the discretion of the RTTL to facilitate competition.
  • At regional events, all black belt CHAMPION rings, junior, and adult, will not be divided unless there are 13 or more in the ring regardless of height/size of the competitor.
  • At National and World events, all black belt CHAMPION rings, junior, and adult, will not be divided unless there are more than 16 in the ring regardless of height/size of the competitor.

Black belts are vying for World Champion points and need to have the experience of going against the taller or shorter opponent throughout the year.

Recreational Black Belt Divisions

"Recreational" competition, previously referred to as NOVICE competition, is for any student wanting to compete but not yet ready to be placed in a "Champions Competitive" ring. This applies to black belts as well as color belts. The purpose of the Black Belt Recreational division is to give inexperienced black belt competitors the option to gain tournament experience in black belt divisions before moving into the Champions more competitive divisions.

A competitor, with guidance from his/her instructor, may choose to be placed in a recreational division indefinitely. Instructors should determine if a competitor should be placed in a "Recreational Division" ( no points awarded) or a "Champion Division" (points awarded).

• Only 1st through 3rd degree black belts may choose to compete in a Recreational Black Belt Division.
• Recreational Black Belts division winners will not receive any championship points toward State/World Rankings for placing in a recreational Division.
• No State or World Championship points will be awarded in a recreational division. (even if one competes in the recreational division by any mistake or error).
• A Recreational Black Belt Divisions will not be held in the same ring/time as the Champions competitive division.
• All 8 Traditional/Creative/Xtreme events, in both Recreational and Champions competitions, will be held in the same ring.
• A recreational competitor will be given the same opportunity to change into a Creative/Xtreme uniform prior to Creative and Xtreme events at the competitors in the Champions competition divisions.
• A competitor may choose to compete in a Champion division at one tournament, and Recreational in another tournament. The competitor must choose for the entire tournament to either be in Recreational or Champion divisions. He/she may not be in both type competitions at the same tournament.
• When judging Black Belt recreational divisions, the Center Judge does not give a zero for an incomplete form. The Center Judge’s score should reflect the overall presentation with no consideration as to the completeness of the form.

Dividing Recreational Black Belts Divisions

• For all Recreational Black Belt divisions, 1st-3rd degrees ranks will be combined. For black belt juniors, age divisions nor genders will be combined.
• For black belt adults, genders will not be combined. However, age divisions will be combined.
• If the division has 13 or more competitors and is to be split, the RTTL will split the division in half. Rank will not be a consideration when making the split. Competitors will be split by height.
• If there are 12 or fewer competitors, the ring will not be split.
• If a ring of 12 has been sent to the competition floor (on deck) and an additional competitor arrives, the ring will not be split at that time.

Color Belt Divisions

In trying to promote color belt competition at regional events and provide them with a positive experience, color belt rings will be either classified as Recreational or Champion.

Champion Divisions Guidelines

“Champion” divisions are available for the student who wishes to compete at a higher competitive level and possibly earn points for the State/World Top Ten standings. Only color belts and/or black belts "officially" registered in the ATA Leadership Program or ATA Legacy Program at ATA International headquarters receive points for State top ten standings.

Dividing Champion Divisions - Color Belts

Due to the vast difference from region to region of the number of competitors at each event, it is not feasible to issue comprehensive rules concerning how the color belt divisions will be formed.

• Regional Tournament Team Leaders (RTTL) will try whenever possible to follow the black belt junior and adult divisions for color belt competitions, meaning the split will not occur until there are 13 or more competitors in the ring.
  • If there are 12 or fewer competitors, the ring will not be split.
  • If a ring of 12 or fewer competitors has been sent to the competition floor (on deck) and an additional competitor arrives, the ring will not be split at that time.
    • The above guideline does not infer that the ring has been started. If the ring has been set, late competitors will just be added to the ring.  The ring WILL NOT be reset or split.
• An RTTL will TRY to have no more than 3 different color belts in any one ring or more than a 5 inch height difference. Key word is TRY. The number of competitors and range of belts will help the RTTL to determine the range of height and the number of different color belts.
• All Adult color belt rings will not be split unless there are 13 or more in the ring regardless of height/size of the competitors.
  • If there are 12 or fewer competitors, the ring will not be split. If a ring of 12 or fewer competitors has been sent to the competition floor (on deck) and an additional competitor arrives, the ring will not be split at that time. 
    • The above guideline does not infer that the ring has been started. If the ring has been set, late competitors will just be added to the ring.  The ring WILL NOT be reset or split.
• An RTTL may, at their discretion, combine or alter color belt divisions to facilitate competition. Adults have a better understanding of the concept of competition and in general want more competition.
• Junior Color belt rings will be combined to facilitate competition. The combination guidelines are handled by the RTTL of the event.

Special Note:

In Champion Divisions at Class A tournaments, for the purpose of awarding points, IF the number of competitors for an event (forms/sparring, weapons, etc.) determined a full division, PRIOR TO the split of the ring, full points will be awarded to all rings of that split division, regardless of the number of competitors in each separate ring.  Conversely, if the number of competitors did not meet the requirement for full points prior to the split, full points will not be awarded for that EVENT.

Recreational Division Guidelines - Color Belt

The purpose of the recreational color belt division (formerly referred to as novice division) is to give an inexperienced student the option to gain tournament experience before moving into the more competitive divisions.

The following guidelines apply for all Recreational division:

• The choice to compete in the recreational division is made by the competitor and their instructor on a tournament-by-tournament basis.
• No judge or other persons should comment on the level of competition in which any competitor participates regardless of the reason, such as the competitors age, rank or participant numbers etc..
• A competitor may elect to compete in the recreational color belt division at a tournament even if they have previously competed in a competitive division.
• The choice to compete in a recreational division applies to the entire tournament.
  • e. A competitor may not compete in the recreational division in some events and the competitive division in others.
• A recreational competitor may compete in forms, traditional weapons, sparring/one-steps and combat weapons, but are not required to compete in any specific event.
• Recreational division competitors may compete in creative and xtreme events, if he/she has competed in the corresponding traditional event.
  • This competition will take place in their traditional ring after the traditional events have been completed.
  • A recreational competitor will be given the same opportunity to change into a Creative/Xtreme uniform prior to Creative and Xtreme events at the competitors in the Champions competition divisions.
  • A recreational division competitor may not compete in the “competitive division” for Creative/Xtreme events at that tournament.
• Recreational divisions are required at all sanctioned regional tournaments and must be advertised accordingly.
• In a recreational division, traditional forms competition, the competitors are not required, but may, perform a complete form. Judges will base their score according to what the competitor demonstrates based on their traditional judging assignments. A competitor will not be penalized by any judge for an incomplete form nor will a competitor be given extra consideration for completing the entire form.
• For traditional weapons competitions, the recreational division will run exactly as the Champion divisions. For sparring/one-step and combat weapons competitions, the recreational division will run exactly as the Champion divisions.
• No State or World Championship points will be awarded in a recreational division. (even if one competes in the event by mistake).
• Awards in “recreational” divisions are the same as those given in “competitive” divisions.

Dividing Recreational Divisions - Color Belts.

• Recreational rings will be split if there are 13 competitors or more.
• If there are 12 or fewer competitors, the ring will not be split.
• If a ring of 12 has been sent to the competition floor (on deck) and an additional competitor arrives, the ring will not be split at that time.

SECTION 7 - TOURNAMENT STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES

Ring Size

Ring dimensions for competition shall be square and should measure in the range of 14 - 18 feet per side, depending on the type of division (adult or junior). For ATA Tiger divisions, the previously described rings can be “cut” in half, and two divisions may be run side-by-side.

Each ring should:

• Have clearly marked boundary lines.
• Have centering marks for sparring competition.
• Be numbered.

Order of Events

The host of each tournament will publish the tournament schedule, provided by their Regional Tournament Team Leader, for that particular tournament. If the host has a particular schedule in mind, the host must submit their proposed tournament schedule to, and receive approval from, the Regional Tournament Team Leader before it is published to the general public.

 The order of competition at regional, national, and world events will be:

1. Traditional Form Competition
2. Traditional Weapons Competition
3. Traditional One-Steps (if necessary)
4. Combat Weapons Sparring
5. Traditional Point Sparring.
6. Creative Forms
7. Creative Weapons
8. Xtreme Forms
9. Xtreme Weapons

At all sanctioned regional events, ATA-Xtreme and ATA creative competitions will immediately follow the traditional events for all divisions and be held in the same ring as the traditional events.

• Awards for the Traditional events will be awarded at the conclusion of Traditional Point Sparring.
• Competitors not continuing in Creative/Xtreme events will be dismissed at that time.
• Competitors who are competing in Creative/Xtreme events will be given 5 minutes to change into their Creative/Xtreme uniform.
  • Competitors may not change clothes at ringside.
  • Those changing clothes should retire to a restroom or locker room to change clothes.
  • The center judge may extend the time period for changing clothes.Center Judges will take into consideration the age/rank of the competitors in making this decision.

Tournament Registration

For regional tournaments, all competitors are encouraged to pre-register with their instructor. The following guidelines apply to all registrations and registration cards:

• It is the responsibility of the competitor to obtain a registration card from their instructor, and with his/her guidance, fill out the registration card fully. This includes but is not limited to their Name, ATA number, Date of Birth, Age, Rank, School Number, and the Name of their instructor.
• If the student is competing at an event that their instructor cannot attend, as long as they have their instructor’s permission, they may register at the event.
• If the ATA membership number is absent or incorrect on the registration card, it is the responsibility of the Instructor of the competitor within five business days after the event to contact ATA International Headquarters with the missing or incorrect number to avoid the forfeiture of points.

To better prepare for world and national tournaments, all competitors, regardless of their rank, are asked to pre-register to compete. All registration cards must be filled out completely. ADULT BLACK BELTS, who register onsite at a world or national event, will be charged a “late” fee of $50 in addition to the on-site registration fees. Adult black belt competitors will also only be eligible for ½ regular points.

(Half points will be rounded up. For example: A “late” competitor earns ½ of 9 points in his/her ring. The 4.5 points will be rounded up to reflect 5 points earned).

Arrival and Competition Times

It is recommended that each participant arrives before opening ceremonies in time to be on the main floor to line up and bow-in before the competition. However, many regional and all national and world events now post the approximate competition times for each division. In those instances, each color belt competitor should arrive at the tournament site approximately 30 to 45 minutes before their posted competition time unless otherwise notified in the tournament information packets. All Black Belts age 15 and older should arrive in time to attend the Black Belt meeting prior to opening ceremonies being held.  If for some unforeseen legitimate reason, a competitor is late for his/her division, the center judge will allow the competitor to enter the division if possible based on the following:

• The Regional Tournament Team Leader approves the entry and will be called to the ring to oversee the proper insertion of the competitor into the competition ring.
• The rule governing late competitors is as follows:
  • If traditional forms competition has started but has not been closed, the competitor will be allowed to compete in the traditional forms.
    • The inserted competitor will perform next.
    • Regardless of where the inserted competitors name is placed on the scoresheet, this late competitor will be called up next to compete. No additional time will be given for warm-up, stretching etc.
      • If, in the opinion of the RTTL, the competitor was deliberately late to a ring to gain an advantage, or is one who is habitually late for competition, the RTTL will deny the competitor from this competition. This decision will also adversely affect the competitors’ Creative/Xtreme competitions either in eligibility to compete, or in points being removed if that aspect of competition has already occurred.

 Traditional forms competition is closed when one of the following events have occurred:

• If there are any ties, when the tie run offs have begun.
• If there are no ties, when the first weapons competitor has been called up to compete.

• If traditional forms competition has been closed and traditional weapons competition has started, the competitor will not be allowed to compete in the forms event, but can be added to traditional weapons. If traditional weapons competition has already begun, the inserted competitor will perform next. Regardless of where the inserted competitors name is placed on the scoresheet, this late competitor will be called up next to compete. No additional time will be given for warm-up, stretching etc.
• Traditional weapons competition is closed when one of the following events have occurred:
  • If there are any ties, then when the tie run offs have begun.
  • If there are no ties:
    • In a ring with one-step sparring, when the first one-step sparring match has begun.
    • In a ring without one-step sparring, when the first combat weapons sparring match has begun.
  • If the traditional weapons competition has been closed, the competitor will not be allowed to compete in the traditional forms or weapons event, but may compete in combat weapons and one- step or sparring.
  • If the first round of one-steps has started, and there are no byes available in the first round, no late entries will be allowed in this event. The bracket will not be re-written, to create byes to accommodate a late competitor if the first round has started.
  • If the first round of combat weapons sparring has started, and there are no byes available in the first round, no late entries will be allowed in this event. The bracket will not be re-written, to create byes to accommodate a late competitor if the first round has started. The late competitor may, however, compete in the one-step and/or traditional sparring.
  • If the first round of traditional sparring has started, and there are no byes available in the first round, no late entries will be allowed in this event. The bracket will not be re-written, to create byes to accommodate a late competitor if the first round has started.

At that time, the Regional Tournament Team Leader will determine if there is another ring available. At national and world events, that decision will be made by the National Tournament Director or his/her assigns.

If, in the opinion of the RTTL, the student has purposefully arrived late in order to receive an advantageous position, the RTTL may refuse entry into any competition.

For the sake of competition, the Regional Tournament Team Leader will make every effort to see that a junior competitor is allowed to compete. If their ring is completed the Regional Tournament Team Leader MAY, create another ring of competition for the purpose of awarding trophies. These specially created rings will not receive points in the World or State Champion Top Ten standings.

Rule exception:  If the RTTL determines that it was the fault of the RTTL or his/her staff as to why the competitor missed his/her ring, and a special ring is created, the competitor will receive points.  The maximum points given in this instance is 3.

Ring Procedures

  The following procedures are indicative of how each ring is to be run at every ATA tournament:

• Collect all the competitor registration cards.The center judge should re-count the number of competitors and the number of registration cards to ensure these numbers match.
  • The center Judge should not physically “warm-up” the competitors in any manner.
• To officially start the division, the competitors will line up and bow-in to the judges assigned.
  • The center judge will introduce the judges to the competitors and announce who is judge A, and who is judge B, and what area of form competition each judge is scoring.
  • While facing the competitors, judge A will be on the left-hand side of the center judge and judge B will be on the center judge’s right.
• Traditional Forms competition
• Traditional Weapons competition.
  • A traditional weapons check should be performed by the judges for all competitors participating in traditional weapons competition prior to the start of weapons competitions. See Weapons check below.
• Traditional One-Step
• Combat Weapons Sparring competition.
  • A discrete “groin cup-check” should be performed by one of the male judges for all male competitors participating in Combat Weapons Sparring and/or Traditional Point Sparring competitions. Prior to the Combat Weapons competition the designated judge should bring all male competitors who have chosen to compete in either combat sparring or traditional sparring together to form a tight circle. At that time, the male judge should ask each competitor to tap on his own cup so that the judge can hear the “knock”.  No person, judge or competitor, should tap on another person’s cup for any reason.  See Groin Check procedures.

•  Point Sparring competition.

Special Notes: Sparring and or Combat Sparring

• All judges have equal authority to call points or penalties. A center judge cannot overrule a call by a corner judge, except through his vote on a point or warning, which has no more weight than each of the other two judges’ votes.
• No judge is allowed to alter, add, or modify any ATA rules.
• If anyone (Senior, Parent, Competitor, Spectator, or Judge) feels there is a problem in a ring, that person should notify the National Tournament Director or Regional Tournament Team Leader with the concern. The National Tournament Director or Regional Tournament Team Leader will decide if any changes should occur.
• Announce Awards: Awards should now be given for the traditional events in the following manner:
  • Call each competitor by name, have them step forward, and award the commemorative tournament pin.
  • For those competitors who placed in an event, the individual competitor should be called forward and awarded placement medals in the following order: third place, second place, and first place. This same process should be repeated for each individual event.
  • Each judge should shake the hand of each competitor and congratulate them after the awarding of the trophies/medals.
• To officially end the traditional division competitions, the competitors will line up and bow out to the judges in that ring.
  • PRIOR to dismissing the ring, the Center judge will announce for all those continuing in Creative or Xtreme events to remain standing in line.
    • They will then dismiss those not continuing in the Creative or Xtreme competition.
  • Announce to competitors and parents the current time, and the number of minutes those competitors who would like to change clothes.
  • Dismiss those continuing to either change or take a break while others change.
• Double check paperwork for the traditional events and return it to the Tournament Secretary.

AT THE CONCLUSION OF THE TIME ALLOTTED TO CHANGE CLOTHES,UNIFORMS, THE CREATIVE/XTREME COMPETITIONS WILL BEGIN IN THE SAME RING.

• Each RTTL will make every effort, but are not required, to switch judges, during the time allotted to change clothes.
  • This does not mean the judges are dismissed.
• Creative Forms Competition
• Creative Weapons Competition
  • A weapons check should be performed by the judges for all competitors participating in Creative weapons competition prior to the start of this competition. See Weapons check below
• Xtreme Forms Competition.
• Xtreme Weapons Competition
  • A weapons check should be performed by the judges for all competitors participating in Xtreme weapons competition prior to the start of this competition. See Weapons check below

• Announce Awards: Awards should now be given for the Creative/Xtreme events in the following manner:
  • For those competitors who placed in an event, the individual competitor should be called forward and awarded placement medals in the following order: third place, second place, and first place. This same process should be repeated for each individual event.
  • Each judge should shake the hand of each competitor and congratulate them after the awarding of the trophies/medals.

• To officially end the Creative/Xtreme division competitions, the competitors will line up and bow out to the judges in that ring.
  • No additional Commemorative pins will be given in the Creative/Xtreme rings. Competitors received their commemorative pins at the conclusion of the traditional event competition.

White/Orange/Yellow Belt - Sparring and Combat Eligibility

All W/O/Y belts will be allowed to compete in traditional sparring and combat weapons sparring as well as traditional one-steps at all tournaments.

For traditional sparring, W/O/Y belt students may choose to:

• Compete in traditional one-steps or
• Compete in traditional sparring or
• Compete in both traditional sparring and one-steps.
  • If a W/O/Y belt chooses to compete in both traditional sparring and one-steps additional fees may apply.
  • For W/O/Y belts competing in both Sparring and One-step Sparring, points will be given to the higher placement of the events. The competitor will not receive points in both events at the same tournament.  For details on how the points will be awarded for placement if the competitor chooses to compete in both sparring and one-step sparring, see Champion program.

A competitor who chooses to do both one-steps and traditional sparring will have an additional competition fee unless this event is their 6th/7th/8th/or 9th event. In that case, the traditional sparring will be at no charge.

Genders will be separated only for traditional point sparring and combat weapons sparring.

Example: There are five boys and five girls combined to form a ring at a tournament. They will compete together for forms, weapons, and one-step sparring. However, the genders will be separated for traditional sparring and combat sparring as well as all creative and xtreme events.

Weapons Inspections

The center judge will call for each weapons competitor to come forward and present the weapon intended for use in that competition.  The weapon shown will be inspected to insure that:

1. Based on the competitor's rank, they are eligible to compete with that type of weapon.
2. The weapon is an appropriate style for their rank and competition event.
3. The weapon is the appropriate size for the height of the competitor.
4. The weapon does not violate weapon adornment restrictions in any way.
5. The weapon is in good repair and safe to use in competition.

• If in the opinion of the judges, it is determined that the weapon has been altered before the competition takes place, the competitor will be allowed to replace the weapon.
• Presenting an appropriate weapon for the weapon inspection, then exchanging it for an incorrect size, type or style after the inspection process will result in a disqualification of the competitor. This type of behavior will be brought to the attention of the International Chairman of tournaments, and additional sanctions/penalties may apply.
• If a weapon breaks during competition it is not the fault of the judge who performed the weapons check.
• The weapon is the responsibility of the competitor.

Groin Protector Check Procedures

All male competitors must wear a protective cup prior to the beginning of combat or sparring competition.

• For male all male divisions, prior to the beginning of combat and/or traditional sparring competitions, the judges will perform a discrete groin protector cup check. One of the adult male judges shall gather the competitors competing in either traditional or combat sparring together, forming a tight circle, and ask each person to tap on their protective groin cup so that the judge can hear the knocking sound. No judge should perform this task for the competitor. If all three judges are female, they should ask an adult male black belt judge nearby to do the groin protector check. Any male competitor found not to be wearing a protective groin cup shall be instructed to put one on promptly.
• Any competitor in this ring who is not wearing a protective groin cup, or has not returned from putting on their protective cup, at the time they are called to spar, will forfeit the match.

Injuries

Every effort has been made to ensure that competing in a Songahm Taekwondo tournament is as safe as possible. However, injuries may occur. The following guidelines will be applied to all injuries during competition:

• If a competitor is injured the judge will have him/her lie down (or remain where he/she has fallen).
• Keep the competitor as still as possible, and DO NOT remove the headgear.
• The medical team on site will be called to the ring.
• If there was no blow to the head or face, the competitor may be asked to remove his/her mouthpiece.
• Until the medic arrives at the ring, every effort will be made to help the competitor stay calm, making sure he/she is advised not to move around.
• If the competitor has asked for multiple injury “time outs” as a way to rest, and/or calm themselves in order to continue, the center judge at his/her sole discretion, may stop the competitor from continuing. In these instances involving Sparring or Combat matches, the competitor will forfeit the match.

The injured competitor will only be allowed to continue when a certain criterion is met. The criteria are as follows:

• It is the opinion of the medical team that he/she will not be further injured by continuing. The decision of the medical team, the day of the event, is final, and may not be overruled by a parent or instructor.
• If the competitor is under 18 years old, he/she MUST ALSO receive permission from his/her parents (if present), instructor (if present).
• If a health-care professional is not available, ALWAYS err on the side of caution.

Injuries and Concussions: ALWAYS err on the side of caution and safety of the competitor. Judges are not expected to “diagnose” a concussion, as that is the job of an appropriate health-care professional. If an appropriate health-care professional on the side determines that the athlete HAS NOT suffered a concussion, the athlete may return to competition. If an appropriate health-care professional determines an athlete HAS suffered a concussion, that athlete MAY NOT return to competition that day under any circumstances. No one may “overrule” the health-care professional. This includes parents, instructors, competitors, guardians, other judges, and spectators.

Tournament Awards

Placement Awards for Competition

There will be three places awarded in all Competitive and Recreational divisions based on the criteria below for Traditional Form, Traditional Weapon, ATA-Xtreme Form, ATA- Xtreme Weapon, Creative Form, Creative Weapon, Synchronized Team Form and Team Demo competitions. They are as follows:

• 1st Place - Awarded to the competitor/team with the highest cumulative point total.
• 2nd Place - Awarded to the competitor/team with the next highest cumulative point total.
• 3rd Place - Awarded to the competitor/team with the third highest cumulative point total.

Combat Weapons Sparring, One-step Sparring, and Traditional Point Sparring competitions will culminate with the following awards given:

• 1st Place - Awarded to the person who wins the final round of competition.
• 2nd Place - Awarded to the person who reaches the final round, but is defeated.
• 3rd Place - Awarded to the winner of the 3rd place match which will be held between the two competitors defeated in the semi-final matches.

Tournament Commemorative Pins

• Each competitor will receive a unique tournament commemorative pin. These pins will be awarded to each competitor prior to any placement medals.
• Disqualified competitors are still eligible for commemorative awards.

Competitor Conduct / Coaching / Correctable Errors / Attitude  

Correctable Errors

As in most competitions, there exists the possibility of "correctable errors". Judgment calls such as scores given or points called in sparring are not considered a correctable error. An instructor/parent/competitor may ask for clarification if they believe a "correctable error" has been made. The Regional Tournament Team Leader will be responsible for this determination, and his/her decision will be final. If an instructor/parent/or competitor would like to discuss the decision of the Regional Tournament Team Leader, they may do so after the conclusion of the tournament. This should occur through the proper "chain of command."

Video Review

A Regional Tournament Team Leader, or National Tournament Director is allowed, but not required, to review video for the purpose of reversing a “Correctable Error”.  Video review will not occur on any judgement call.  EXAMPLE:  After looking at all 3 scores in sparring, the Center Judge calls, one point red, but the scorekeeper inadvertently awards the point to white.  This is a correctable error.  Assuming the video shows all aspects of the call, the RTTL may award the appropriate point.  The review of whether a competitor actually scored a point, is not a correctable error.  There is no “instant replay”.  Judgment calls are final, and not subject to review.

No Coaching

It is the responsibility of the judges to ensure that no one is allowed to receive coaching during any competition except the team sparring/combat events. There will be no coaching from the sidelines by anyone, including color belts, black belts, instructors, family members or friends. This no-coaching rule is in effect from the time the competitors are “bowed into their ring” through the time they are “bowed out of their ring.” This includes quietly telling a student what to do between matches in sparring, or before a tie-breaker in forms/weapons. Cheering and offering encouragement is indeed allowed and encouraged. A competitor receiving coaching will be penalized in the following manor:

• 1st offense- Competitor shall receive a noncontact warning.
• For 2nd and subsequent offenses - Opponent will be awarded a penalty point.
• The person coaching shall be removed from the ring area after the 2nd offense. Failure to leave the ring area, for the coaching offense, will result in disqualification of the competitor.

Competitor Attitude and Conduct

One of the most important tenets of Songahm 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. Songahm Taekwondo students are known for their discipline, courtesy, and respect. Any 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.

Unsportsmanlike Conduct Warnings

Unsportsmanlike Conduct Warnings are at the sole discretion of the center judge. Unsportsmanlike conduct warnings may, in the sole discretion of the center judge, result in a penalty point and/or disqualification.

• If the competitor's family, friends or fans engage in such conduct, then also at the discretion of the center judge, a competitor may be given an unsportsmanlike conduct warning. All penalties would also apply.
• 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.
• At the discretion of the International Chairman of Tournaments, unsportsmanlike conduct may result in the loss of all or part of one’s accumulated top ten points, or being barred from future tournaments. The offender will receive official written notification from the International Chairman.

SECTION 8 - TRADITIONAL FORMS COMPETITION

Admissible Competition Forms

Color Belts

Color belts that participate in the forms portion of the competition will demonstrate the form selected by their instructor. For integrity reasons, the instructor should not have a color belt student do a form that would be considered below his/her current ability level. However, competitors will not be questioned by the judges about the appropriateness of the form a color belt demonstrates.

There will not be any special consideration given regarding the color of the belt the students are wearing and the form with which they compete (neither higher scores for a higher level form nor lower scores for a lower level form). The students will be judged according to their performance in comparison to the others in their division that day.

If a Recommended Black Belt Competes in a 1st Degree Decided Black Belt Division, he/she must perform with either Choong Jung 2, Choong Jung 1, or In Wha 2 forms. He/she may not compete with a lower belt form or with the 1st Degree form, Shim Jun.

Black Belts

Black Belts may not compete with a form designated for a rank higher than their current rank, even if they are “competing up” for the tournament season.

1st Degree Black Belt competitors:

• Must compete with Shim Jun form after six months from the date of their successful decided rank test. This is commonly referred to as the “6-month rule”. Judges will assume that the form presented qualifies under this rule. This is an integrity issue.  Judges who feel that the 1BD competitor has been competing with a “color belt” form longer than 6 months should report this to the RTTL at the event. The RTTL will then report this to the ATA International Chairman of Tournaments at ATA headquarters.
  • The judge should not question or make comments to the competitor as to his/her time in rank. Nor should the judge reflect his/her concern in the score given to the competitor at that event.
• The lowest forms that can be performed in a 1st Degree Decided Black Belt ring is Choong Jung 2, Choong Jung 1, or In Wha 2.

2nd Degree Recommended Black Belt competitors:

• Must compete with Shim Jun.

2nd Degree Decided Black Belts and higher competitors:

• May choose to do any of the black belt forms up to and including the form designated for their rank during the regular tournament season.
• The lowest form that can be performed is Shim Jun.

Note: Please see the District and World Championship section of the rule for additional information on selecting the appropriate form for your competitive goals.

Judges Area of Concentration

Scoring of traditional forms is divided into three judging aspects. Judge A, Judge B, and Center Judge. Each judge is scoring a different aspect of the competitor’s presentation. An important aspect of judging forms is not letting personal preferences concerning techniques influence scoring. It is not feasible to expect every member of Songahm Taekwondo to do every technique the same. Differences in body styles, age, and other criteria can make a difference in how an Instructor may teach a student certain techniques. Form judges must base their score on the overall look and effectiveness of the techniques. The best “rule of thumb” is to watch the competitor as a judge and not as an Instructor. When seated, Judge A will be on the left hand side of the Center Judge and Judge B will be on the Center Judge’s right hand. While judging one’s respective areas, scoring should be based on the following ten attributes. The competitor who can demonstrate the highest quality and the most consistent of these attributes should be given the highest score.

1. "Base"- Foundation of every technique (Base foot when kicking, starting point for hand techniques.)
2. "Trajectory"- The path a technique will take from point A to point B.
3. "Follow Though"-Going beyond the target. (full extension of technique).
4. "Joint Position"- Proper setup of all joints for a technique.
5. "Balance"- Body alignment, posture, proper base, and eye contact.
6. "Precision"- Hitting the exact target with the proper point of contact.
7. "Speed"- Time it takes for your technique to go from point A to Point B. Relaxing the muscles and exploding.
8. "Reaction Force"- The counter balance. to each movement.
9. "Power"- Body rotation and input of the body mass through acceleration.
10. "Automatic Reflex"- Proper repetition allows you to react effortlessly.

Corner Judge A

Will grade only stances and kicks.

For stances, the judge should look for:

• Proper Base to include correct
  • Length
  • Width
  • Weight distribution
  • Foot position

 For kicks, the most important things to judge are proper:

• Trajectory
• Follow through
• Joint position
• Balance
• Power

 Note:

• The height of the kicks should match the competitor's body dimensions. (i.e. their solar plexus for mid-section kicks and head level for high section kicks)
• Judge A will only judge the techniques that are shown and will not make point deductions for moves left out, the wrong type of kick or an incomplete form. Those areas are the responsibility of the center judge.

Corner Judge B

Will grade only hand techniques.

For hand techniques, the most important things to judge are proper:

• Trajectory
• Joint Position
• Speed
• Reaction Force
• Power

Judge B will only judge the techniques that are shown and will not make point deductions for moves left out, the wrong type of block or strike, or an incomplete form. Those areas are the responsibility of the center judge.

Center Judge

Will grade the overall form presentation.

The center judge will score the overall presentation of the form. In addition to the criteria of Judge A and B, the additional criteria for the center judge are proper:

• Memory (Automatic Reflex)
• Rhythm & Timing
• Attitude & Enthusiasm

Score Keeper / Time Keeper

The scorekeeper and timekeeper at an ATA tournament play an important part in the overall running of a ring. While these volunteers are not considered to be judges, they have responsibilities and obligations that must be followed. The Center Judge should select a student who is in dobok to fill the role of the scorekeeper or timekeeper. Street clothes are not considered appropriate attire for this position.

The Scorekeeper/Timekeeper should:

• Make sure that his/her duties in the ring are understood, and ask the Center Judge for any clarifications necessary.
• Be appropriately dressed in a white or black ATA uniform.
• Write legibly and completely fill in any and all scores given by the Center Judge. Repeat the score back to the Center Judge in a loud, clear voice.
• Make every effort to get the Center Judge's attention if he/she becomes unclear with a score or time issue at any point during the competition.
• Pay complete attention to the ring in which they are working.
• Refrain from cheering for any particular competitor. He/she should remain unbiased as if he/she were one of the three judges.

Traditional Form Competition Procedures

The following procedures are indicative of how each ring is to be run at every ATA tournament:

• The Center Judge will turn the cards face down and shuffle them so that the competitors are called in a random manner. It is not necessary for all names to be written on the scoresheet before beginning the forms section of the competition,
  • At national and world events, the scoring sheets are pre-printed. The order of the competitors called will be based upon the directions given by the National Tournament Director the day of the event.
• To begin form competition, the center judge will draw one card at a time and call the competitor’s name. He/she will hand the card to the scorekeeper so the scorekeeper can record the name while the person is doing his/her form. It is not necessary to fill in all of the competitor names before starting the competition. The scorekeeper will do this while the competitor is demonstrating the form to the judges. As an additional courtesy to the competitors and their families, the Center Judge should also announce the competitor “on deck” (meaning the next competitor up for competition).
• When their name is called, the competitors will answer, “Yes, Sir/Ma’am”, run to the center of the ring, stand at attention, and wait for the judges’ directions. They will follow the judge's instructions, and when given the command to begin, will demonstrate their form on their count.
• They will hold the position of the last movement until given the command to return and will not leave the ring until dismissed.
• In every division, the first three competitors will demonstrate their form, one at a time, and then be dismissed to the side. This will allow the judges to evaluate the ring by determining the general ability of the competitors present in the ring. At the conclusion of the third competitor's demonstration of his/her form, all three competitors will be brought back and given scores. Every subsequent competitor will be scored immediately following the performance of their form.
  • Competitors should keep in mind that scores vary depending on the level of competitors in the ring on that particular day.
• The Center Judge will announce scores from his/her left, calling out Judge A’s Score, then the Center Judge's score, and finally Judge B’s score. Judges should keep their scores visible until the scorekeeper has written the scores correctly, and repeated the scores back to the Center Judge for verification.
• After every competitor has had an opportunity to demonstrate his/her form, the center judge will check the addition of the scores and determine if there are any ties.
• If a tie in scores should occur for first, second or third place, use the run-off system. (See Resolving Ties.)

Determining and Administering a Score

It is important to understand how to determine a competitor’s score.

• The first three competitors will complete their form before being scored. This gives the judges a base for their scores.
• Each judge will give a score ranging from 0 through 9.
  • The score is a comparison score based on the competitors in that ring, on that day, and not based upon the excellence of the form presented.
    • Competitors should keep in mind that scores from one tournament may be completely different from another tournament depending upon the level of the competitors in that particular ring on that particular day.
  • It is highly possible that the scores from each judge may greatly vary because each judge is scoring a different part of the performance and the scores do not have any relationship to each other.
  • This method of scoring also gives the competitors instant feedback on what part of their form may need improvement.
• There are no boundary restrictions during forms competition.
  • Competitors will not be penalized for stepping beyond the ring boundaries, nor will they be penalized for adjusting their position to avoid obstacles, people, or the ring boundaries. Competitors may not realize that they will not be penalized for stepping beyond the ring boundaries and may adjust to prevent this. It is also possible that equipment bags, spectators, etc., may be in their way and they should be permitted to adjust to avoid these obstacles.
• There are no specific time restrictions for completion of a form.
  • When forms are described and taught, the written material has a suggested time frame in which the form should be performed. This suggested time frame is there for the purpose of helping the student understand the speed and flow of the form. It is not included as judging criteria to be used for tournament competition.

For rings where there are three or fewer competitors

• Instead of giving scores, each judge will point their choice for the top score according to their assignment. (A for Kicks/Stances, B for Hand Techniques & Blocks, C for Overall Presentation)
• The score keeper will record the following scores:
  • 1st place : 9 for all judges
  • 2nd place: 8 for all judges
  • 3rd place: 7 for all judges
• If all the judges point to a different competitor, then the judges will follow the normal tie-breaker procedure, beginning with each competitor repeating his/her form. During the tie-breaker, each judge will be looking at the overall presentation of the forms.
• A single competitor should be given the scores of 9, 9, 9, due to them being the best in the ring that day.
• All participants in all competitive divisions, regardless of belt or rank, will be given 1 attempt to present his/her form.
  • In every ring, regardless of the number of competitors, a competitor who presents an incomplete form will receive a score of 0 (zero) from the center judge. Judge A and Judge B will score the competitor following the normal guidelines for a complete form and not deduct points based on the completeness of the form.
    • This rule is in effect for all tournaments beginning in the 2020-2021 season for both Champion and Recreational divisions

Score Range & Meaning

The meaning of the scores are as follows:

9 = Considered among the best of the group.

6 thru 8 = Better than the average of the group.

5 = The group average.

1 thru 4 = Below the group average.

0 = Incomplete (only to be given by the center judge on the incomplete first attempt.

Notes:

• All competitors are allowed only 1 chance to complete their form.Students who are unsure if they know their form should, in consultation with their instructor, consider competing in the recreational division for that tournament.
• An incomplete form will receive a score of 0 (zero) from the Center Judge.
• Corner judges should always base their score based on the quality of technique shown in comparison to the other competitors that day in that ring.

Incomplete Form

An incomplete form is defined as a competitor leaving out at least four or more consecutive moves or stopping any time during the form and not continuing the presentation.

• If a competitor omits a one or two techniques, turns in the wrong direction, or performs an incorrect technique, this would NOT be classified as an incomplete form.
  • The emphasis of the organization’s teaching is on the quality of technique rather than solely memorization. Only the Center Judge will deduct points based on presentation and the corner judges should not deduct for this type of mistake.

During form competition, the Center Judge may assist a competitor in completing their form through verbal cues and possible physical demonstrations if the competitor is unable to complete their form. This is done solely to help the self-esteem of the competitor by giving them the opportunity to finish their form in front of their peers and audience.

• The Center Judge must then score the form as if it were incomplete, giving a score of 0 (zero), which would be the same as if the judge did not offer assistance and the competitor had not completed their form. The corner judges should not deduct for this assistance. Corner Judges only judge the techniques demonstrated.

Example: A competitor demonstrating Songahm #3 leaves out both knife hand high blocks, or does sidekicks in place of the two round kicks, but does correct techniques during the rest of the form. The Center Judge, who is responsible for the overall presentation of the form, may make score deductions for the competitor doing the wrong techniques or leaving out techniques, while Judge A and Judge B should give scores that only reflect the quality of the techniques demonstrated when compared to the other competitors.

Resolving Ties

Should two or more competitors have the same score for first, second, or third place, there is a tie in the division.

• Ties are to be run off rather than decided in conference.
• The tied competitors will be asked to do their form again, individually.
• Each competitor must do the same form they did originally.
  • A competitor that does not repeat the same form will forfeit the tie-breaker.
• All three judges will now be judging the entire form overall rather than their original assignments. All ties will be decided by the judges pointing to the best form instead of giving scores.
• If there is a tie for more than one place, the judges will decide the highest place first.

The following method for determining the winner is in place:

• After all the tied competitors (for that place) have done their form, they will line up facing the judges.
• On the command of the center judge, all judges will point at the competitor they felt did the best.
• If at least two judges pick the same person, that person wins and will receive that place in the competition.
• If more than one place were at stake, the judges would immediately decide the next best form, and so on, until all the positions are filled.
• If all three judges point to different competitors, those three will step forward one step.
  • Next, the two competitors on the right (the judges’ left) will take one more step forward. The Center Judge will now ask the judges to pick the better form from those two.
  • This winner now steps forward with the competitor on the left, and the judges will again point to the better form. This person is the winner.
  • If more than one place were at stake, those competitors eliminated by the original vote would now be brought back, and the judges will point to the one they felt deserved the next place. This procedure will be used until all places have been determined.
• A judge will remain consistent with his/her choice for best form when deciding ties. If a judge points for “Competitor A” in his/her initial voting, that judge must continue to vote for “Competitor A” in all subsequent voting until competitor A places or is eliminated.

Example #1: There is a two-way tie for first place and a two-way tie for third place. The Center Judge would have the two competitors tied for first place demonstrate their forms again and a decision would be made as to the victor. Then the two that tied for third place would perform next and a decision made.

Example #2: Sue, Mary, Jane, and Betty tied for first place. All four competitors demonstrate their form a second time. All four competitors’ line up in front of the judges and at the direction of the Center Judge, each judge points to the competitor they felt earned first place. If each judge points to a different person, one competitor is eliminated from the first place voting (for this illustration Mary was eliminated). Once the first place has been decided per the above procedures, the second place needs to be determined. To do this, Mary would be brought back to be eligible to earn second place. This procedure would be used if there are four or more tied for first or second place; those eliminated in the deciding for one place will be brought back for the next place.

Example #3: There is a three-way tie for 1st place in one division. The top finishers are Ellen, Sally, and Jane. After all three competitors have completed their form a second time, the center judges call for the judges to point to the competitor they feel should win 1st place for the best form and Judge Brown votes for Ellen. The other judges each vote for Sally and Jane. When the Center Judge calls Ellen and Sally to step forward and the judges to vote, Judge Brown must vote for Ellen again. If Ellen wins that vote and then goes against Jane, Judge Brown must vote for Ellen again.

SECTION 9 – TRADITIONAL WEAPONS COMPETITION

Color Belt Rules & Guidelines

Type & Style of Weapons Available to Color Belt

The color belt student must confer with their instructor concerning the weapon they will use in competition. If competing in weapons, a color belt MAY ONLY compete with one of the following:

• Single or Double Bahng Mahng Ee.
• Single or Double Ssahng Jeol Bong.
• Jahng Bong.
• Ssahng Nat.
• Jee Pahng Ee.
• Gum Do.
• Oh Sung Do.

Color belts may use only Protech safety weapons for traditional weapons competition except for the Jahng Bong and the Jee Pahng Ee, which any style is acceptable.

Content of Color Belt “Freestyle” Demonstration

The color belt student will demonstrate a “freestyle” routine of his/her own creation that has a maximum duration of 30 seconds. Their entire freestyle form cannot be all “a shortened” black belt weapons form. Competing with large sections of a traditional black belt form is not considered an "original creation" of the competitor and therefore cannot be used and the competitor shall be disqualified. The traditional weapon form created by the competitor and his/her instructor should only contain moves taught in traditional Protech curriculum.

The color belt competitor may not:

• Add any “gymnastic type” moves such as, but not limited to, splits, rolls, flips, etc.
• Release the weapon.

For each violation of this rule,in color belt divisions, each judge shall reduce their score by one (1) point. The center judge shall, prior to calling for scores, remind the corner judges of the required deductions.

The routine must be approved by the competitor's instructor before the competition; therefore, it is vital that the color belt student consults his/her instructor as to the presentation.

Judging Criteria for Color Belt "Free-Style” Demonstration

In traditional color belt weapon's competition, Judge A, Judge B, and Judge C will score the entire performance of the form rather than one of the specified aspects. Also, there are no incomplete traditional color belt weapon forms since it is a "freestyle" form.

This presentation will be judged on the following criteria:

• Overall control of the weapon (deductions for drops, mishandling, etc.).
• Difficulty (more difficult maneuvers deserve more recognition).
• Originality (is the competitor being creative).
• Presentation (was the display exciting and fun).
• Practical application of the weapon.
• Stances, timing, and rhythm of the form.

Control of the weapon is of utmost importance.  The above list is not intended to be a specific order of importance but rather a guide for the judge to compare one presentation against another for the purpose of giving a score. However, in the resolving of ties during the weapons competition, the control of the weapon should be the number one criteria for determining the winner. In breaking a tie, a competitor who “drops” a weapon should not receive the win over a competitor who controls the weapon throughout his/her performance.

Black Belt Rules & Guidelines

Black Belt Weapons Forms & Rank Requirements

Here is the list of black belt weapons forms and their rank requirements. The following weapons, as well as which black belt rank may use them, are listed below:

• Single Bahng Mahng Ee for 1st Degrees or above.
• Double Bahng Mahng Ee for 2nd Degrees or above.
• Single Ssahng Jeol Bong for 1st Degrees or above.
• Double Ssahng Jeol Bong for 2nd Degrees or above.
• Ssahng Nat for 2nd Degrees or above.
• Jahng Bong Mid-Range for 1st Degrees or above.
• Jahng Bong Long Range for 3rd degrees or above.
• Sam Dan Bong for 4th Degrees or above.
• Jee Pahng Ee for 4th Degrees or above.
• Oh Sung Do Level 1 for 1st Degrees or above.
  • At this time - Oh Sung Do Level 2 is not approved for competition
• Gum Do Level 1 for 1st Degrees or above.
• Gum Do Level 2 for 4th Degrees or above.
  • Note: For Black belts, the sheath of the Gum Do is required during traditional competition.

Special Note:  For 1st Degree Recommended Black Belts that choose to compete with Black Belts,  he/she must compete with one of the 5 approved 1st Degree Decided Weapons forms.  (Single Ssahng Jeol Bong, Single Bahng Mahng Ee, Oh Sung Do, Gun Do, or Mid-range Jahng Bong). The competitor may not replace one of these forms with the color belt 30-seconds of free style exhibition.

Style of Weapon Approved for Black Belt Weapons Competition

Black belts may use only Protech safety weapons for traditional weapons competition except for the Jahng Bong and the Jee Pahng Ee for which any style is acceptable, and all Black Belts may use the metal ATA branded advanced training sword.  This includes Recommended Black Belts competing in 1st Degree Decided rings.

Judging Criteria for Black Belt Forms

In traditional black belt weapon competition, Judge A, Judge B, and Judge C will score the entire performance of the form rather than one of the specified aspects. The center judge has the additional judging criteria of the completeness of the form. The center judge is the only judge that will consider completeness and make necessary deductions.

All judges will consider the following criteria:

1. Control of the weapon is the first and most important priority.
2. The following list is not intended to be a specific order of importance but rather a guide for the judge to compare one presentation against another.

• Accurate, effective strikes (as they relate to the nine angles of attack).
• Timing: The judge will look for the coordination of hand and foot movements.
• Fluid handling of the weapon: The judge will look for smooth exchanges and transitions from one move to the next.
• Equal precision of the left and right sides of the body: The judge will look for a balance of technique quality from one side to the other.
• Consistency between the first half of the form and the second half: The judge will look for equal speed and direction of the weapon during both halves.
• Proper stances.
• The attitude of the competitor.

Traditional Weapons Form Competition Procedures

Traditional weapon competition procedures will be consistent with traditional form procedures with the following additions:

• During color belt weapon competition: The time-keeper of the ring will start the clock running at the command of the center judge and will call out “Time” when 30 seconds has expired.
  • Once time has expired, the center judge should stop the competitor if he/she has not finished his/her demonstration within a few seconds of “time” being called.
• Black belt weapon forms do not need to be timed.
  • There is no time limit for black belt weapons forms.
• The use of resin, resin bags, or other products intended for use to dry the hands before the competition is allowed.

Determining and Administering a Score

Scoring Range

The range of scores are the same as traditional forms. The judges will give a score ranging from 0 through 9.

Notes:

• There are no incomplete traditional color belt weapon forms since it is a freestyle form.
• If a color belt's entire weapon form is all or a section of a black belt weapon form, the competitor will receive a 0 (zero) from the center judge only. The judge A & B will give scores based on the criteria given.
• There will be no penalty for a color belt weapons form that is less than 30 seconds.
• For Color Belts, no part of the presentation that exceeds 30 seconds will be considered when the judges give scores, even if a weapon is dropped during that excess of time.
• An incomplete black belt form, will receive a 0 (zero)  from the center judge only.   Judges A & B will give scores based on the criteria given.
• During a black belt's weapon form, deductions for leaving out moves that do not result in an incomplete form, may be taken by all 3 judges.

For rings where there are three or fewer competitors

• Instead of giving scores, each judge will point to their choice for the top score according to their assignment.
• The score keeper will record the following scores:
  • 1st place: 9 for all judges
  • 2nd place: 8 for all judges
  • 3rd place: 7 for all judges
• If all the judges point to a different competitor, then the judges will follow the normal tie-breaker procedure, beginning with each competitor repeating his/her form. During the tie-breaker, each judge will be looking at the overall presentation of the forms.
• If there is only one competitor in the ring, the judges will throw scores based on the number of competitors in the ring. The single competitor should receive a 9, 9, 9, due to them being the best in the ring that day, unless an automatic point deduction is involved (ex. Dropped weapon, incomplete form).

Dropping or Breaking a Weapon

• In Traditional Weapons, there is an automatic one point deduction from each judge’s score for a competitor dropping a weapon(s).
• In Traditional Weapons, there is an automatic one (1) point deduction from each judge’s score for picking up the weapon(s) incorrectly.
  • The correct way to retrieve a dropped weapon FOR ALL WEAPONS is with a traditional pick-up, meaning going down to one knee and picking up the weapon correctly with two hands.
  • It should be noted that no one in an actual battle would pick up a weapon with two hands. However, for the purpose of competition, two hands should always be used.
• A competitor is considered to be active in competition from the time they are bowed in to do their presentation until the “Bah-roh” command is given to return the student to their ready position. Any weapon drops between those two actions will impact the score given by the judges.
• There is NO DEDUCTION from a competitors score if a competitor’s weapon breaks during his/her competition. If a weapon should break, the competitor will be given a maximum of 30 seconds to replace the weapon from his/her own gear, or borrow one from another competitor. Once the student has replaced the weapon, the form will be continued from the point that the weapon broke. If for any reason the damaged weapon is not replaced, the competitor will then receive a score of 0 (zero) from the center judge and regular scores from each of the corner judges.

Example: The Double Ssahng Jeol Bong form's active time does not extend beyond "Bah-roh". If Sally drops the left Ssahng Joel Bong during the triangle strike after the "Bah-roh", no points should be deducted.

SECTION 10 - COMBAT WEAPONS SPARRING COMPETITION

Introduction

Every program sponsored by the ATA is a constantly evolving process. They grow, change and adapt. For this reason, Grand Master In Ho Lee, in 2013, approved the development of Combat Weapons Sparring as the newest competitive event in our tournament arsenal. This event is meant to be one that is an extension of the traditional weapons through practical applications.

Eligibility

Combat Weapons Sparring will be offered at all regional and national events to those competitors who meet the following requirements. The competitor must:

• At all tournaments, all ranks are eligible for combat weapons sparring.
• Meet the general eligibility requirements.

Equipment

Weapon

The Protech Combat Bahng Mahng Ee sold through World Martial Arts, is currently the only combat sparring weapon approved for competition. It differs greatly from the Protech traditional safety Bahng Mahng Ee in both weight and dimensions. The height of the competitor does not dictate the length of the combat weapon, however, only ATA Tigers may use the new Tiger Combat Bahng Mahng Ee.

Combat Sparring - Safety Gear

The sparring gear requirements are the same for combat weapons as traditional point sparring with the exception of the gloves. There are two options for gloves:

1. Traditional sparring gloves
2. ATA branded combat gloves
1. The new red & black gloves shown below are examples of ATA branded gloves. These gloves are approved for Combat Sparring, but Not Approved for Traditional Sparring.

Optional equipment includes

• Forearm Pads.
• Knee Pads.
• Shin Pads.

Combat Weapons Sparring Procedures

• 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 ATA approved. The judges must also verify that an approved combat weapon, including checking for it being in good repair, is being used.
• Combat weapons sparring brackets will be set up using the ATA bye system. Once the bracket is completed, it is imperative that the center judge checks the bracket using the following procedure.
  • Have all the competitors line up in the center of the ring
  • Announce each match using the competitors 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 be declared the winner.
• Following the same procedures as traditional 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/stabs by competitors with the "no- point" signal used in all sparring events.
• The competitor can not score using the handle of the combat weapon.
• The entire body is a legal target area in combat weapons sparring with the following exceptions:
  • Stab to the head.
  • Any area of the neck not covered by headgear (face shield is considered part of the headgear).

Points

Strikes with the weapon to a legal contact area will result in the following points with a maximum of 4 points given at any 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 causing 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 weapons 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.

For combat weapons competition, one may disarm your opponent by hitting the opponent's hand, arm or weapon. However, one may not disarm an opponent using a "trapping disarming" technique where one grabs the 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.

• 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 a 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 time-keeper and say "Stop Time"
• A discussion will then take place about when the drop occurred.

There are two options.

• The drop occurred during the active part of the match. The competitor who dropped the weapon can not 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 drops his 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 bruises from accidental contact made with controlled technique. It will not protect against full-power attacks. Contact warnings 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.

Contact warnings will receive the following penalty:

• 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 which are listed below.

Excessive conduct warnings are at the sole discretion of the center judge and may result in a penalty point, 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 day in all sparring and/or combat events.
  • Excessive contact due to malice will be reported to the ATA International Chairman of Tournaments by the RTTL. This will be reviewed by ATA International to determine if any other penalties should be imposed. Additional penalties are at the sole discretion of ATA International.

SECTION 11 - TRADITIONAL POINT SPARRING / ONE-STEP COMPETITION

Position of the Judges

Each judge is assigned a particular position in the ring which will allow him/her the best view for judging traditional point sparring or traditional one-step competition. The other two judges should take a position in the opposite corners from the center judge, creating a triangle.

• All three judges should try to maintain this triangle, so that as the competitors and center judge moves around the ring, so do the judges.
• The center judge must maintain his/her primary position directly facing the scorekeeper and timekeeper during any calls.
  • This is to ensure the scorekeeper and timekeeper receive, understand, and write down all instructions and scores. When the center judge has confirmed a point(s) and called them out to the scorekeeper, the scorekeeper should repeat the point(s) back to the center judge. This process will confirm that the proper information was heard and recorded.

Bye System

The ATA bye system is to be set up before any traditional one-steps or traditional point sparring begins. The ATA bye system is based on the concept that each division must achieve a point at which exactly four competitors are left to spar in the semifinal matches. Simply having an even number of competitors will not ensure that a division will reach this point. A bye would be considered an “automatic win.” The competitor who receives a bye would not have to do one-steps or free-spar in the first round of the competition and would automatically move into the next round.

Procedure for Awarding Byes

For the 2020-2021 tournament season, All World Champions, 2020 District Champions, and 2020 State Champions will receive bye preferences. The US 2020-2021 Tournament Year runs from the Saturday of the World Championship tournament through the Tournament of Champions (TOC) held at the end of the season.. Pan-Am Tournament Year runs from Saturday of the Pan-Am tournament through the Pan-Am Tournament of Champions. Notice that District, Pan-Am,and State Champions only receive bye preferences for the competition year after the title is earned. Pan-Am Champions and District Champions are considered equal for the awarding of byes.

The procecure for administering byes will be as follows:

• The center judge will calculate the number of byes needed.
• The center judge will have all the competitors turn around so he/she can view the uniform backs and determine who is wearing the appropriate uniform to receive a bye preference. A competitor must be wearing the “champion” uniform that day to get the bye preference, and continue to wear it during the sparring/combat sparring portion of the competition. Verbal or written confirmation of champion status will not be allowed unless, in rare circumstances, provided by the International Chairman of Tournaments.
• The byes will be awarded in this order:
  • World Champions: The most current World Champion receives the first bye, additional byes are awarded in descending order of the year the title was won.
  • District Champions or Pan-Am Champions (For competition year after the title is earned). Pan-Am Champion Titles are considered a District title.
    • At this time, a person earning a European and/or Asia Pacific Championship event, may order a corresponding uniform indicating this title, but will not receive a bye at competitions. This policy will be reviewed each year as these events continue to grow.
  • State Champions (For competition year after the title is earned).
  • Award any remaining byes needed by a random drawing.
• If there are two or more champions of the same year and status, a random drawing among those eligible for the bye will be used.
• This rule does not guarantee that everyone that is eligible for a bye preference will receive a bye.
• Should a competitor receive a bye in the first round, thus placing him/herself in the medal round, and then refuse to spar in the next round, the competitor will forfeit any “top ten” points earned in that event.
• A competitor who wishes to change into his/her “champion” dobok top for sparring events at the ring may do so, provided that the ring is not delayed in any manner. He/she must compete in that dobok top in order to receive the bye.
  • Competitors may not "share" dobok tops.

Same School Rule

When the center judge is pairing the competitors for traditional point sparring or traditional one-step competition, he/she will make every effort to prevent competitors from the same school from competing against each other in the first round of competition.

• If a competitor receives a bye in the first round, they may face an opponent from the same school the first time they spar.
• The procedure for determining byes will take precedence over the rule of competitors being separated by school for the first round.
• The byes cannot be reassigned if this procedure leaves only members from the same school competing against each other in the first round.

This rule does not apply to District and Tournament of Champions competition. All byes, and placement of competitors at the Districts and Tournament of Champions competitions are done in a random order, and no consideration of school will be given by the judges..

Traditional One-Step Sparring Competition

Rules and Guidelines

• All white, orange, and yellow belts are eligible to compete in traditional one-step sparring. Electing to compete in one-step sparring DOES NOT prevent them from also competing in traditional point sparring. White, orange and yellow belts may choose to participate in both events.
• A competitor cannot mix one-steps from two different ranks, but the set of one-steps which a competitor uses does not have to match the form the competitor used during form competition
  • EXAMPLE: a competitor may do Songahm 2 Form and Songahm 1 One-Steps.
• A competitor must do at least two different one-step combinations on the first two attempts to win both points.
• If a competitor does repeat a one-step during the first two attempts, they are prohibited from winning the second attempt. They may, however, repeat a one-step during the final round and win the tiebreaker.
• One-step #1 and #2 can be performed in any order. The #3 one-step will not be allowed.
• If there is a tie and a tiebreaker is necessary, the competitor will use his/her choice of the #1 or #2 one- step.
• A one-step match will last for a maximum of three one-steps.
• If a competitor accidentally makes slight contact during one-step sparring, he/she will not be penalized. If excessive contact is made, a penalty point may be awarded, or the student may be disqualified if appropriate.
• The only one-steps options are from the White, Orange, or Yellow curriculum.

Traditional One-Step Sparring Competition Procedures

• Traditional one-step sparring brackets will be set up using the ATA bye system. Once the bracket is completed, announce the competitors that received the byes.
• One-steps must be done with a “partner” facing each other and as if in a self-defense situation. The only exception to this rule is for ATA Tigers.
• After the competitors bow in, the center judge assigns the competitor on his/her right to be red (using a piece of red cloth attached to the competitor’s belt in the back) and the other competitor to be white.
• The competitor on the center judge's right will always be red and low block first.
• The center judge will start each one-step segment by telling the red competitor to “Step Back, Low Block!”
• The center judge will break the competitors between each one-step.
  • Using flags, the judges will score the first one-step when directed to score by the center judge.
  • One point will be awarded to either red or white.
  • This will continue until one competitor scores two points and is declared the winner of the match.
  • The winner of the match should then confirm his/her name with the scorekeeper to insure that the proper competitor is credited with the win, and advances to the next round.

Traditional One-Step Sparring Judging Criteria

All one-steps will be judged by the following criteria. The judges will check each of the criteria, moving down the list until he/she sees a significant difference between the competitors. This determines the winner of the one- step. The following criteria is in order of importance:

• The quality of the basic techniques: stances, blocks, kicks, etc. As mentioned earlier about forms, memorization is not the organization’s sole objective. A student that has “great” technique but leaves out a move (or does an incorrect move) should not lose to a student that does the one-step “correctly”, but has only “fair” technique.
• If both are even, the judges will look at power; which competitor uses the stronger techniques.
• Next, look at the flow (or smoothness) of the one-step.
• If the judge still can’t decide, choose the competitor striking closer to the target.
• If they are still tied, the competitor with the better competitive attitude should win.

Traditional Point Sparring Competition

Rules & Guidelines

At all tournaments, all ranks will be eligible to free-spar including white/orange/yellow belts.

Traditional Point Sparring Competition Procedures

• Prior to the first sparring match, the center judge will personally check the stopwatch to ensure it is working properly.
• Prior to sparring competition, the center judge must verify that all competitors are wearing all the required sparring gear and all gear is ATA approved.
• The traditional point sparring bracket will be set up using the ATA Bye system. Once the bracket is completed, it is imperative that the center judge checks the bracket using the following procedure.
  • Have all the competitors line up in the center of the ring.
  • Announce each match using the competitors first and last names. Have each competitor kneel as their name is called.
  • Upon completion, make sure everyone still standing is not competing in traditional sparring.
• The center judge will call up the competitors in pairs according to the sparring bracket.
• Each competitor will answer “Yes, Sir/Ma’am!” when his/her name is called, and run to the mark indicated by the center judge. From that point to the end of the match, the competitors will follow the instructions of the center judge.
• The competitor on the center judge's right will always be red and this will be indicated by using a red piece of cloth attached to the competitors belt in back.
• 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 five points before the end of the two minutes, he/she will be the winner.
• Unless a disqualification is declared, the competitor who scores the greater number of points at the end of regulation time will be declared 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."
• "Sudden victory" match may be decided by penalty points.
• At the conclusion of a match, the winner should then confirm his/her name with the scorekeeper to ensure that the proper competitor is credited with the win, and advances to the next round. It is the center judges responsibility to ensure the correct competitor is advanced to the next round.
• After the semifinal matches, the competitors not advancing to the finals will spar for 3rd place. There will be a one-minute break before the 3rd place match begins.
• There will be a one-minute break before the 3rd place match begins.
• Once the 3rd place match is completed, the final match will determine 1st & 2nd place.
• A disqualification or warning given during traditional sparring competition does not carry forward to combat weapons sparring with the exception of unsportsmanlike conduct.

Target Areas & Techniques

In a traditional point sparring competition, points are scored by competitors using only hand or foot techniques to legal target areas. The following guidelines apply:

Hand techniques may only strike the front of the torso.

• The front of the torso is restricted to the front of the body starting at the hips and going up to the base of the throat, and from one side seam of the uniform to the other side seam.
• Legal hand techniques include only the following: punch, backfist, hammerfist, ridgehand and knife hand techniques.
• Striking techniques going towards or making contact with areas outside of this definition will be considered illegal. (See Warnings)

Foot techniques may strike the following:

• Front of the torso.
• Any area of the head covered by headgear (face shield is considered part of the headgear).
• Kicking techniques directed towards or making contact with areas outside of this definition will be considered illegal (See Warnings).

Illegal Target Areas and/or Illegal Techniques

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.

In traditional sparring, 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.
• Techniques that strike any part of the head not covered by headgear.This includes the throat, sides and back of the neck below the headgear.
• Blind hand and kicking techniques are illegal techniques. A hand or kicking technique is considered “blind” if the attacker is not looking at the target at the time the technique is thrown. A spinning backfist would be an example of a “blind” hand technique. Throwing a spinning heel kick while not looking at the target would be an example of a “blind” kicking technique.
• Fingertip techniques are not allowed.
• Any hand techniques to the head & neck.

Neutral Area

Neutral areas are defined as areas of the body which when contact is made it is not illegal and does not score. The arms and top of the shoulders are neutral areas.

Points

How a Competitor Scores a Point

Scoring points will be done by striking legal hand or foot techniques to or near the legal target areas. The following techniques will score points:

• Non-jumping or jumping hand techniques to the legal target area will score one point.
• Non-jumping foot techniques to the legal target area other than the head will score one point.
• Non-jumping foot techniques to the head, face, side or back of the neck, will score two points.
• Jumping foot techniques to the legal target area other than the head will score two points.
• Jumping foot techniques to the head target areas score three points.
• The criteria for a technique to qualify as a jump kick is that the non-kicking foot must be off the ground at the time of the kick coming close to or touching the legal target area.
• Techniques cannot score if the competitor (the attacker) is falling during the execution of the technique. No technique can score if any part of the competitor other than the base foot is touching the ground.
• Neither color belts nor black belts are required to make contact to score points, but may make light to moderate contact to legal areas.
• In the interest of safety, if a judge feels that the technique was close enough to score, (no attempt was made to block or evade) but contact was not made because of exceptional control by the attacker, a point should be awarded.

Example: Competitor A strikes the chest of Competitor B with a side kick, but in the process puts his/her hand on the floor while executing the kick. The judges should use the "No point" call.

Note: It is imperative that judges understand the importance of calling a point for a student that is obviously trying not to hit a less talented student. If Competitor A does a spin kick just over the head of Competitor B, and it is obvious to the judges that Competitor A did so in order not to hurt Competitor B (competitor B did not evade, attempt a block, or otherwise demonstrate that the kick was seen and dealt with), the judges should award 2 points to Competitor A just as though the kick had actually hit the head of Competitor B. If Competitor A is continually denied points because he/she is looking out for the other competitor, the student will become frustrated and be more inclined to "make contact".

This is strictly a judgment call, and not open to interpretation by other competitors, judges, spectators, or seniors. It is put in the rules to remind judges that the most important aspect of judging is competitor safety.

The 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 come close to or 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 close enough to the opponent.
  • The technique was blocked by the opponent.
  • The technique was not a proper technique (weak or poorly thrown).
  • The technique was thrown when the competitor was out-of-bounds.
• No See - one or both hand(s) 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 came close to or touched a legal target area.
• Warning - wave the flag color of the competitor to receive the warning down low. This means the judge saw the competitor do something that was illegal.

Difference between 'No Point" and "No See": A judge must SEE, not just hear, contact of any technique he/she warrants a point or warning to be called. If a judge is not sure, or did not clearly see, that a technique scored, he/she will call “no see.” The call of "no see" removes that judge from the decision.If he/she calls “no point,” he/she could prevent a competitor from receiving a legitimate point.

Making a Call – Points

If a point is seen (without a warning), the following actions will occur:

• One or more of the three assigned judges should clearly call out “Break!” to stop the action.
• On the direction of the center judge, each judge will indicate one of the three calls; “point”, “no point”, or “no see”.
• The center judge and the corner judges are required to show their vote at the same time. Each judge has one vote with all the votes carrying equal weight.
• When indicating a point for either color, the corner judge should raise the appropriate flag and point in the direction of the competitor for whom they are calling, while indicating the number of points awarded. If the judge both raises the flag and points in this manner, and an error is made in the color of flag raised, the judge may change the flag for the correct call. If a corner judge calls a point for red but raises the white flag, red is possibly being deprived of an earned point. Honest mistakes do happen. If the judge points in the direction of the proper competitor but raises the wrong color flag, it is evident to everyone for whom he/she meant. It would be permissible in this event to change the flag color.
• Points will be awarded according to the majority of judges who saw the techniques.
• If two or three judges score different points for the same competitor, the highest common score called by the majority of judges will be awarded.

Example #1: Two judges call “no see”, and one judge calls “point.” In this case, the competitor who scored will be awarded the appropriate point(s). If a judge calls“no see”,he/she has eliminated himself/herself from that particular scoring vote. In this situation, only one judge saw the scoring technique, so this would make him the majority.

Example #2: One judge calls “no see”, one judge calls “1 point Red” and one judge calls “no point”. In this case, there is no majority, and no points would be awarded.

Example #3: First judge scores Red 1, second judge scores Red 1, and third judge scores Red 2. The highest common score is 1 and Red is awarded 1 point.

Example #4: First judge scores Red 1, second judge scores Red 2 and third judge scores Red 3. At least two judges scored 2 points or higher and Red is awarded 2 points.

Out of Bounds for Point Sparring

A competitor is considered completely out of bounds when any part of the body is touching the floor beyond the ring boundary during sparring. Judges should tap the floor if they see a competitor is out of bounds to help him/her realize his/her ring position.

The following rules apply:

• A competitor out of bounds cannot score.
• A competitor out of bounds can still be scored upon.
• A competitor is not required to “let” the person out of bounds return in bounds. If in the judgment of the officials, there is no danger to the competitors, or spectators, they may allow the ring to continue even if one competitor is out of bounds.
• If a competitor has one foot in bounds and one foot out of bounds, the competitor can only score with the foot that was out of bounds. By picking up the out of bounds foot, he/she is now back in the ring.
• A competitor cannot score with a jump kick if initiated with both feet out of bounds. However, a #3 style kick can score if the out of bounds foot is the one that initiates the elevation for the kick (and the other foot was in bounds). Once the out of bounds foot lifts off the floor, the base foot is in bounds and the competitor would be considered in bounds.
• A competitor can score on an out of bounds competitor with a jump kick if initiated inside the ring and the scoring occurs while both feet are still in the air.

Warnings

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. There are three different types of warnings: Noncontact, Contact & Excessive Contact or Unsportsmanlike Conduct.

Procedures for Calling a Warning

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. Any judge that saw the warning, will immediately wave the matching colored flag of the offender towards the ground.
• The center judge will look at the time-keeper and say “Stop Time!”
• A discussion will then take place about what that judge saw and whether any of the other judges saw that illegal action. The only purpose of this discussion is informational in nature only. One judge should never attempt to persuade the other judges to change their minds.
• The center judge should then call for verification of the warning similar to calling for verification of point.
  • “Judges call for warning”
  • The signals used to verify a warning are as follows:
    • Verify the warning - Wave the matching colored flag of the offender towards the ground. This indicates the judge saw the action and agrees that it was illegal.
    • Disagree with the warning - cross the arms low. This indicates the judge saw the action, but did not agree that was illegal. This could be because of a different visual position to the action and did not see the action as illegal.
    • No See - hands cover the eyes. This indicates that the judge did not see the action and cannot agree or disagree with the call.
  • The results of this call are handled similar to calling for points. The majority indicates the final call. It is important to remember that two calls of “No See” do not negate a warning or a point. The “No See” calls are treated as if the judge wasn’t there at the time and the majority of what is remaining indicates the final call, even if the majority is only one judge.
  • A competitor cannot be issued a warning and be awarded a point at the same time
  • Judges should make every effort to make sure both competitors and the spectators understand any discussions that occur.

Example: During the action, one judge saw “Red” punch towards “White’s” face and two judges saw “Red” kick towards “White’s” head. After break is called, the judge that saw the punch waves his/her red flag towards the ground. The center judge sees the call for a warning and stops time so the judges can discuss what was witnessed. After the discussion, the center judge asks for official verification. During the verification process.

• Case #1: One judge votes for a warning and the other two vote "no warming" by crossing their arms low. The warning is not verified. The center judge then calls for points 1 judge votes "no point" and the other two vote 2 points red. Result: no warning for red and 2 points awarded to red.
• Case #2: One judge votes warning and 2 judges vote "no see." The warning is verified and red can not receive points for the kick to the head.

Non-Contact Warnings

A competitor may be issued a non-contact penalty. Non-contact penalties include, but are not limited to the following:

• The technique was going in the direction of an illegal target area (this would include fakes or feints).
• The technique came close to an illegal target area.
• 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 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. 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 warnings are awarded when contact is made to an illegal area.

Examples would be:

• Contact made with any hand techniques to the head.
• A legal technique makes contact to any illegal target area.
• The technique used was illegal and made contact.
• Grabbing one’s opponent.
• Contact is excessive in nature.

Contact warnings will receive the following penalty:

• 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.
• All contact penalties will result in a point awarded the defender. This includes non-intentional contact that does not fall under the “NO FAULT” rule.

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. 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. It is also important to remember that this is a judgment call by those judges in the ring. Judges will use their experience and the attitudes of the competitors as guidelines when using the no-fault rule.

Example #1: A competitor throws a sidekick towards his opponent’s ribs. The opponent does a spinning hook kick at the same time and is therefore kicked in the back. This would result in a no-fault call.

Example #2: 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.

Excessive Contact

Excessive conduct warnings are at the sole discretion of the center judge and may result in the awarding of a penalty point, or disqualification. Remember that the purpose of this rule is to protect the competitors physically and mentally. It may result in disqualification if excessive contact was due to negligent lack of control.

• A competitor disqualified for excessive contact can advance and participate in the 3rd place match.
• Excessive contact due to malice will result in an unsportsmanlike disqualification, and the competitor is done for the day in that particular event.

Disqualification for Contact Warnings

If a competitor is disqualified for two contact warnings during the same sparring match, he/she losses the current match.

• If a competitor is disqualified in the semi-final match, they can advance to the third place match.
• If a competitor is disqualified in the finals they will be awarded 2nd place.
  • The only exception is disqualification due to unsportsmanlike conduct. At that point the competitor if finished for the day, and the unsportsmanlike conduct will be reported to the International chairman of tournaments for possible further sanctions to the competitor.

Hinz stopped building this in Test, and moved to production (copy and pasted test to prod, then continued from there in Production).