| Tournament Rules V7.6 |
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Download the rules in PDF format - Click Here Section 1A Competitor: Any competitor who conducts himself or herself in a way unbecoming of a Martial Artist will be immediately dismissed from a given event and will be considered for suspension from future events. Behavior that is grounds for dismissal includes, but is not limited to, foul language, verbal or physical threats to another individual, or argumentative encounters with an official or other individual. The Centre referee, an events chief arbitrator(s) and/or director, reserves the right to expel a competitor at their discretion. Section 1B Coaches: Any coach or instructor, who conducts themselves in a way unbecoming of a Martial Artist, as explained above, will be immediately dismissed from a given event and will be considered for suspension from future events. The Centre referee, an events chief arbitrator(s) and/or director, reserves the right to expel a coach at their discretion. The competitor(s) represented by a particular coach or instructor whose behavior is determined to be unacceptable will also be dismissed from the event. Section 1C Spectators: Any spectator who behaves disrespectfully towards another individual will be immediately dismissed from a given event. The Centre referee, an events chief arbitrator(s) and/or director, reserves the right to expel a spectator at their discretion. If a spectator acts disrespectfully towards an official or competitor, then the competitor whom the spectator represents will be disqualified from the particular division they are competing in and, based on the severity of the incident, may be dismissed from the event completely. 2. AUSTRALIAN ISKA RULES Section 2A Competitor: Each competitor must present him/herself to the referee suitably attired and physically prepared to compete. Jewellery or any object that the referee feels might endanger either competitor cannot be worn. Finger and toenails must be properly cut or covered to eliminate any possible chance of injury to an opponent. It is the competitor’s duty to be ready to compete when called upon to do so. If he/she is not suitably attired or physically prepared to compete as deemed by the Centre referee, the competitor may be penalized for delay of time. Section 2B Delay of Time Penalty: Sparring: If a competitor does not present him/herself suitably attired to compete, an automatic warning will be issued to the competitor. A penalty point will be issued for each minute the competitor is not properly ready to compete. Upon receiving 3 penalty points, the offending competitor will be disqualified. None Sparring Events: If a competitor is not properly prepared or suitably attired for competition, 0.10 points will be deducted from their final score. For each full minute the competitor is not ready to compete, an additional 0.10 point will be deducted from their final score. If the competitor is still not ready to compete after 3 minutes have expired, he/she will be automatically disqualified. Section 2C Rank Matching Rule: All competitors must compete at the highest belt level they have earned in the martial arts. A competitor can never compete in a division of which he/she has not earned that rank. Once a competitor competes as a black belt, he/she must always compete as a black belt. In the case of divisions being combined the competitor is offered to compete at a higher level, they do not have to except the offer, for they are still entitled to there trophy & points for there division. Note in the event where rank rule applies, size and weight must be determine in matching competitors (This may not always be possible in small divisions where for example only 2 competitors are competing) Section 2D Proof of Age Rule: All competitors must have proof of age. If there is a reason to question a competitor’s age, he/she must present a birth certificate, driver’s license, or other acceptable government recognizes document/s (e.g. Birth certificate, Drivers License Medicare Card) to prove his/her age. If proof of age cannot be presented, and the competitor wins a division his/her award(s) and rating points (if rating points are awarded) will be held until proof of age is furnished. Proof of age must be furnished within seven days of the tournament date. Section 2F Legal Age Rule: All competitors have the option of competing in the same division all year long for rating purposes, by establishing a legal competition age for the year. The age a competitor is on June 30th of the current competition year is their legal competition age for that year. They can compete all year long at that age so he/she can earn rating points in one age division all year. A Competitor can always compete in his/her chronological age. The legal age rule is developed for rating purposes only. Section 2G Uniform: Sparring: All competitors must wear a complete (top and bottom) traditional or professional sport karate (Kung fu, Tae Kwon do, etc.) uniform in a good state of repair. T-shirts, tank tops and sweatshirts are allowed if they are part of a competitor’s official school or if they list the schools name or logo on the uniform top. A competitor with offensive words or artwork on the uniform will be denied the privilege of participation. The appropriate colour belt or sash must be worn in competition. Form: T-shirts, tank tops and sweatshirts are allowed if they are part of a competitor’s official school or if they list the schools name or logo on the uniform top. Removal of the uniform top is allowed in form competition if the removal is considered relevant to the artistic expression or safety of the competitor. Shoes may be worn in form competition if they do not damage or mark the competition floor. Section 2H Responsibilities: It is the competitor’s responsibility to know the rules and to be ready for competition when called to do so. He/she must be suitably attired, weighed-in, and at the appropriate ring when competition begins. Three calls will made for competition at ringside, a first call, a second call, and a final call. If a competitor leaves a ring after the ring competition begins and is not present when his/her name is called to compete, his/her name will be called three (3) times at ringside. If he/she is still not present to compete on the third call, he/she will be disqualified. Section 2I Required & Recommended Safety Equipment: International Sport Karate Association approved headgear; hand and foot pads, mouthpieces and groin cups (for male competitors only) are mandatory for all competitors in all sparring divisions. Because of the many brands and styles of martial arts equipment on the market today and more coming out each year, space prohibits listing all the brands, which are considered safe. ISKA approved equipment means that each competitor’s equipment will be checked to see if it is safe for use. If it is deemed unsafe, he/she will be asked to change the equipment before he/she can compete. The following is a list of important and required features of ISKA approved safety equipment. Hand Pads - A soft padded surface must cover the fingers, wrist and any striking surface of the hand. The striking areas such as the ridge of the hand (ridge hand), side of the hand (chop, hammer fist), back of the fist (back fist), and the knuckles (punch) must be covered with a soft padded surface. No cloth protectorsInsufficiently - padded gloves, foot and headgear will not be allowed. Equipment must be in a good state of repair and must be free of heavy taping, tears or any other repairs that may cause injury. Equipment with heavy or too many seams on the striking surfaces is also not allowed. The tournaments head rules arbitrator ultimately determines the approval, or denial, of the equipment. Because we are involved in promoting, participating and spectating in sport karate, only karate, Tae Kwon Do and Kung Fu equipment is allowed. (Boxing and other contact sports equipment are not allowed in karate tournaments). Shin, elbow, rib, knee, and breast protectors (female competitors only) are recommended for additional safety to all sparring competitors. Please note no strapping of hands. 3. OFFICIALS Section 3 A Time Keeper: The timekeeper is the helper to keep time. He/she will start and stop time at the command of the Centre referee and will inform Centre referee when the time has expired. In sparring, the timekeeper does not start or stop the match. His/her only duty is to keep time for the Centre referee. Section 3 B Score Keeper: The scorekeeper is the appointed helper to keep score. He/she will write down the form scores from each judge, eliminate the high and low scores (if 5 or more judges are being used) and add the remaining scores to attain a total score. The scorekeeper should check his/her addition a second time (calculators should be used.) In sparring, the scorekeeper will write down or flip scorecards at the command of the Centre referee. The scorekeeper should inform the Centre referee when a fighter gets the appropriate number of points to automatically win. It is the scorekeeper’s duty to listen very closely to the Centre referee and keep score as the referee commands. Any discrepancy or confusion of the scores rests in the hands of the Centre referee, not the scorekeeper. The Centre referee will make the final score decision. Section 3 C Referee: The referee should be the most experienced official in the ring and be thoroughly versed on the rules. He/she is in complete charge of the ring and the match. He/she promotes the safety of the competitors, enforces the rules and ensures fair play. To this end, he/she starts and stops the match, awards points, makes penalty decisions, administrates the voting of the other judges, communicates clearly with the scorekeeper and timekeeper, and announces the winner of each match. The referee shall announce in a loud, clear voice all official decisions, and shall indicate - with voice and gestures - the competitor affected by the official decision. Section 3 D Added Powers of the Referee: · Match starts and ends only with his/her command (not the command of the timekeeper)Section 3 E Judges: The judges call points as they see them. The Centre referee to help in determining penalties or warnings may consult them, although the referee alone has the power to issue them. They will be asked to vote on disqualification rulings. It is the majority vote of the judges and referee that determines a scoring point. Section 3 F Calls an Official May Make: When the referee believes there has been a significant exchange of technique, or when signaled to do so by a corner judge, he/she shall call out the word, “STOP!” in a loud voice. The referee shall then return the competitors to their starting marks and address the judges by saying, “JUDGES CALL!” All judges and the Centre referee cast their votes simultaneously and assertively in the following manner. Judge Sees A point – He/she should hold up one arm, and at the same time he/she yells out the word “CALL!” in a loud clear voice to let the referee know he/she has a call. Point Calling – When singled by the referee, a judge raises the appropriate arm and indicate their score. If a competitor scores a two-point kick, the officials should hold up two fingers (index & middle fingers “V” sign). If only one point is being called, the judge should raise an open hand. No Point Scored – An official crosses his/her wrist at waist level to indicate that he/she believes that a point was not scored. Did Not See If A Point Was Scored – The officials holds his/her hands over his/her eyes indicating that he/she could not see whether a point was scored or not. Indicates the official was not on position to see if a point scored. (When using this single, it has the same result as saying no point, but gives the referee, competitors and fans the reason why you are not calling the point). Clash – Officials make a motion as though they are hitting both fists together, indicating that both competitors score at the same time. Penalty – The judge raises a fist of the offending competitor above his head. Disqualification – A disqualification vote is taken separately from any other vote. When a disqualification vote is asked for, the referee will say, “JUDGES CALL”. The judges will then raise a fist indicating the competitor who is to be disqualified. If the judge does not feel the competitor should be disqualified, he/she crosses his/her wrists at waist level. Section 3 G Late Call: All officials should make their calls at the same time. If, in the opinion of the Centre referee, a corner judge is making a late call intentionally, the referee can disqualify the call (noise not allowing the judges to hear the referee and the honest mistake of raising the wrong hand should be taken into consideration). Section 3 H Number of Officials: Five officials are required in all non-sparring divisions, (numbers permitting). At least three judges are required in all non-sparring divisions. Three officials are required in all point sparring divisions. Section 3 I Removal of Officials: If a competitor feels that an official should be removed from a non-sparring division for a legitimate reason, (EG. Has demonstrated to be bias towards competitors, abusive continues applying rules which are not within the guidelines of the Australian I.S.K.A Rules then he/she must file a protest before the division begins. If a competitor feels that an official should be removed from a sparring division, he/she may file a protest at any time. It is totally up to the Centre referee and the rules arbitrator to determine if an official should be removed. (Note a protest can be file by a verbal, written or video evidence request) Section 3 J Protest: A competitor has the right to protest an infraction of the rules or if a possible mistake was made (not a judgment call). If a competitor wishes to protest they should first let the referee know they believe there has been an infraction of the rules or a mistake has been made. The referee will summon the arbitrator to the ring to render a decision if the referee cannot settle the protest to the competitor’s satisfaction. All protests must be made in an orderly, proper, and sportsmanship like manner. All protests must be made immediately. Protests are not allowed once competition has resumed. A competitor may be penalized if he/she is protesting improperly or with proper cause. Section 3 K Changing of Officials: A sparring official can be changed at any time during a division once a match has stopped. A form judge cannot be removed until the division he/she is judging is completed. Section 3 L Late Entries: Once a division has started (the first competitor has started his/her routine or the first fight divisional has started) no competitor/s can be added to that division. BE ON TIME! 4. THE RING The size of the standard ring shall be approximately 7 metres by 7 metres (49 jigsaw mats), 6 metres by 6 metres can also be used for younger divisions. If mats are not used the borders of each ring shall be clearly marked. Starting lines should be marked approximately 2 metres apart in the Centre of each ring. Additionally, each ring should be posted with a ring number visible to competitors, officials, and medical personnel from across the floor 5. SPORT KARATE POINT SPARRING RULES Section 5 A Weigh-In: It is mandatory for all adult fighting competitors - who fight in a weighted division - to weigh-in before engaging in competition. Only one official weigh-in is required. If the weight official feels a competitor is trying to weigh heavier by wearing unreasonable clothes or equipment, he/she will be asked to take off those articles of clothing before weighing-in. (official weigh-in is only applicable to Jujitsu divisions in Australia). All adult fighting competitors must fight in their weight division. A competitor cannot fight in a weight division in which he/she does not make the proper weight. This means a competitor cannot go up to a heavier weight division or go down to a lower weight division. Section 5 B Order of Competition: Once the final call for competitors of a division has been made at ringside, the referee and his/her ring personnel will mark off the names of the competitors. The order of competition will be as per the computer-generated draw. Those not using a computerized system will place names in a random order on the draw sheet. Competitors should not be matched against other competitors from their own club in the first round, numbers permitting. Section 5 C Length of Match: An elimination match shall have a running time of one and a half (1½) minutes for under 18 year olds, two (2) minutes for 18 years old and over, unless a competitor earns enough points to be declared the winner before the time is up. Running time means that the clock continues to run during point calls, etc., unless the referee calls for a time out. During unusually long point calls, equipment adjustments, rule clarifications, etc., the referee shall stop the time. If at the end of running time the match is tied, the match will continue into sudden victory overtime period. The first competitor to score a point is declared the winner. All grand champion fighting matches will be a one two minute round. The competitor with the most points at the end of the round will be declared the winner. Section 5 D Point Values & Winner Determination: Head kicks will be valued at 2 points. Kicks to the body and all hand techniques will be valued at 1 point. All penalty points awarded will be one (1) point value. The winner is determined by: The first competitor who earns five (5) points automatically wins. If no one scores five (5) points by the end of the time limit competitor who is ahead wins. Section 5 E Hand Signals: · If calling for a one (1)-point technique he/she will raise an open hand. · If calling for a two (2)-point technique he/she will raise two fingers.Section 5 F How Points are Awarded: Scoring points are awarded by a majority vote of the judges. The majority of judges do not have to agree on the same technique being scored, only that a point was scored. The only agreement to be made is that the point that scored was a legal technique. A majority of the judges calling the point must call a two (2)-point kick before two points can be rewarded. Otherwise only one point is awarded. Section 5 G What is a Point: A point is a controlled legal sport karate technique scored by competitor in-bounds that strikes an opponent with the allowable amount of focused touch contact or focused control to a legal target area. Criteria that officials use when deciding if a point was scored are: 1. Was it a legitimate and legal sport karate technique?Section 5 H Legal Target Areas: Entire head and face, ribs, abdomen, collarbone, and kidneys. Section 5 I Illegal Target Areas: Spine, back of neck, throat, and sides of the neck, groin, legs, knees and back are all illegal target areas. Any attacks to these areas could result in a warning and/or penalty points. Section 5 J Non-Target Areas: Hips, shoulders, buttocks, arms, and feet are all non-target areas. Points cannot be scored to non-target areas. If it is deemed that a competitor is actually attacking these areas, a warning and/or a penalty point may be awarded. Section 5 K Legal Techniques: Legal techniques are all controlled sport karate techniques, except those listed as illegal. When determining the legality of a technique, the official considers if the technique is a legitimate, controlled sport karate technique that adheres to all other rules governing sport point karate. Section 5 L Illegal Techniques: Head butts, hair pull, bites, scratches, elbows, knees, eye attacks of any kind, take downs on hard surface floors, ground fighting on hard surface floors, any stomps or kicks to the head of a downed opponent, slapping, grabbing / wrestling, uncontrolled blind techniques, any uncontrolled throws takedowns or sweeps, and any other uncontrolled dangerous techniques that are deemed unsafe in sport karate. Section 5 M Grabbing: A competitor may grab the leg of an up-right opponent in an attempt to score with a sport karate technique for only one second (immediately), after which time he/she must release the leg. Section 5 N Sweeps, Takedowns, Grabs & Ground Fighting: Sweeps are not to take down an opponent, but only to obstruct the balance can only be executed to the front leg at mid-calf or below. These described sweeps are legal on all types of fighting surfaces if the sweep is only to force the opponent off balance so as to execute a technique to an upright opponent. If the sweep were considered to have knocked down the opponent, then it would be illegal except on a padded surface. It is important to note that sweeps do not make it legal to kick the legs. A sweep must be deemed a proper sweep, and not a kick, to be legal. Takedowns and sweeps that are meant to take down an opponent are allowed only on padded fighting surfaces (see below padded surface). Judo throws such as over the hip and shoulder-throws are not allowed. If a sweep or takedown is recklessly executed, without control, it will be judged illegal and the fighter may be warned or penalized. Sweeps to take down an opponent must be executed at mid-calf or below and must be executed to the front leg only. A point is given when the legal sweep or takedown is effectively and legally followed up. Only a hand technique or a carefully controlled kick or stomp to the body will be allowed on a downed opponent. One foot must be on the ground throughout the stomp or kick. Never, under any circumstances, may a competitor stomp or kick to the head of a downed opponent. A kick may be trapped or grabbed for one second for purposes of executing a counterattack to an upright opponent or executing a counterattack to a downed opponent on a padded surface. Ground fighting is only legal on a padded surface. On a padded surface, once a competitor is on the floor, he/she has two (2) seconds to score. The referee will say, “Stop!” after two seconds. Either competitor may score in the allotted two seconds. A deliberate drop to the floor must be followed up with an attempt to score. Deliberately dropping to the floor to avoid or evade fighting is not legal. All dropping to the floor deliberately on a hard surface is not legal. A fighter is down when any part of the body, other than the feet, is touching the floor. Section 5 O Padded Surface Defined: Concrete, wood, tile, terrazzo, rubber, or any other similar surfaces are not considered padded or soft. Padded means, a surface that is resilient enough so that an opponent is able to withstand the shock of a fall or takedown without damage or injury. An actual resilient pad must be present on the surface to be considered padded or soft (Example: Jigsaw mats). Section 5 P Light Touch Contact: (Kiss contact) means there is no penetration or visible movement of the opponent as a result of the contact. Light touch is allowed to all legal target areas except to the face of all youth and under black belt competitors. Light touch does not have to be made to the head gear in all Youth competitors and under black belt competitors but must be approximately 10cm away without being blocked. Section 5 Q Moderate Touch Contact: (Tap/tag contact) means slight penetration or slight target movement. Moderate touch may be made to all legal target areas except the head and face. Section 5 R Excessive Contact: Is made when an opponent strikes with force in excess of what is necessary to score a point. The following requirements will determine if excess contact has occurred · Visible snapping back of a competitor’s head from the force of a blow.Section 5 R Touch Contact Requirements: 1. All adult black belts must make light touch contact to the face and head (head gear) to score a point, and light or moderate touch contact to the body to score a point.6. METHODS OF PENALISING Section 6 A Warnings & Penalties: One and only one verbal warning is allowed without penalty for breaking the rules. After the first warning is given, a penalty point is awarded to the opponent on each and every violation of the rules. If a competitor receives four warnings (giving 3 penalty points to his/her opponent) in any one match, he/she is automatically disqualified and his/her opponent is declared the winner. If the result on the first infraction is considered by the referee to be severe enough he/she can omit the first warning and issue a penalty point automatically. In doing so, the referee is omitting any first warning to the offending competitor. A penalty point can determine the winner of a match. Section 6 B Other Penalty Rules: 1. A competitor cannot be penalized and still received a point on the same call. A penalty always overrules a point by the same competitor.Section 6 C Causes of Penalizing: This is a partial list of possible causes of penalizing and may be used as a guideline to follow: 1. Attacking illegal and non-target areas.Section 6 D Disqualification: Disqualification of a competitor requires a majority vote by all officials, except when a competitor is automatically disqualified when he/she receives three penalty points. When a competitor is disqualified, it is proper to notify the tournaments rules arbitrator. A competitor who bows out or accepts a bow out of any grand championship match may be disqualified. If so all awards and rating points (if awarded) are forfeited. (An exception to this rule is if the competitor bows out due to a substantiated injury verified by the tournament medical personnel.) A competitor who is disqualified for misconduct or malicious behavior in a final round (1st or 2nd place) will not be awarded the trophy or rating points, this does not apply to a disqualification through point over. Section 6 E Non-Competing Penalty: If, in the majority opinion of the officials, it is considered that competitors are not making an obvious attempt to fight in the true spirit of competition, both competitors will be warned and if it continues, will be disqualified. Section 6 F Wrong Division: If any competitor competes in a division he/she is not qualified for, because of age, weight, gender or style, he/she will be disqualified. Section 6 G Out of Bounds: A competitor is out-of-bounds as soon as he/she does not have at least one foot touching inside or on the boundary line. Stepping out-of-bounds does not immediately stop the match. The referee is the only one who can stop the match. An out-of-bounds competitor may be scored on by his/her opponent so long as the in-bounds competitor has at least one foot in bounds and the referee has not signaled to stop. In the event of a jumping/flying technique, the attacking competitor must land with one-foot in-bounds in order to score. Section 6 H Coaching: Coaching is a luxury that most competitors do not have access to at all times. (Definition of a coach. A person who trains athletes for games, a contest etc. and or to give instruction or advise to in the capacity of a coach.) Therefore, it sometimes can become an unfair advantage over a competitor who does not have a coach. Rules are made and enforced so no one competitor has an advantage or disadvantage over another competitor. Once the competitors enter the ring, the rules make the contest as equal and as fair as possible for both competitors. Therefore, the following rules on coaching apply: 1. Never, at any time, can coaches, friend/s, team member, etc.; enter the ring without the referee’s permission (only the officials, competitors and medical personnel are normally allowed in a ring).The referee issues penalties for any of the above coaching infractions. 7. SPORT KARATE KATA / PATTERN / FORMS RULES (Note: This event is now known as Forms Division) Section 7 A Competitor: All competitors must present themselves suitably attired and ready to compete. They may be divided into separate divisions based on style, size, gender, belt colour, origin of the form, or age. Individual tournament promoters will determine how many different form and weapons divisions a competitor may enter. To enter an adult form division, a competitor must be 18 years or older. A competitor must enter the division corresponding to his/her age, sex and belt colour. Section 7 B Late Entries & Order of Performance: It is the responsibility of the competitor to be at the ring prior to the time that the division starts. Once the division is organized and the first competitor begins, there will be no additional entries. If a competitor comes late but the first competitor has not started, he/she can compete but must compete first and immediately. The order of performance of the non-seeds (where seeding is used) will be by random draw, shuffling of cards, computer selection, numbers, etc. Switching the order of performance numbers is not allowed between competitors. If there is good reason to believe that competitors switched numbers, he/she will be disqualified. The order of performance of the grand championship rounds will also be determined by random draw. If the competitor(s) is not present at the designated time to draw numbers, he/she will automatically go before the ones who are present. If only one is not present, he/she will automatically go first. If more than one is not present, a separate drawing is made by the designated form coordinator for those not present. They will go in that order before the competitors who are present. Section 7 C Time LimitL: A competitor must be ready to compete when called upon to do so. All competitors have a maximum of three (3) to four (4) minutes to present and perform their routine. The time starts once a competitor enters the ring. If the judge feels the competitor is stalling before he/she enters the ring, he/she can call for the timekeeper to start the clock. A competitor whose routine exceeds the time limit will be disqualified. Competitors in the grand championship runoff or finals will receive five (5) minutes to present and perform their routine. Section 7 D Traditional Kata / Forms Divisions (Now known as Traditional Forms): (Empty hand no music, weapons, props etc) Competitors in these divisions, if offered, must exhibit a routine that reflects the essence and traditional values of the division name in which they are competing. The routine does not have to be a classical “form” handed down over the years, but should not deviate too far in form and content from the styles classical form. Competitors exhibiting a routine that is too “free”, have gymnastics, or other non-martial art techniques in them or are comprised of elements from more than one style should enter the musical division. Otherwise the competitor risks disqualification or down grading. Section 7 E Musical Kata / Patterns / Forms / Weapons Division “(Now known as Creative Forms)”: Note this event permits “Music” but is an option for those wishing not to use any type of music. The Creative Division allows forms to include contemporary martial arts techniques that have evolved over the last 30 years. These may be added to traditional form, or the competitor may devise the form in its entirety. A form in the Creative Division must “ONLY” include techniques, which originate from martial arts and like the Traditional Division; emphasis will be placed on execution of the techniques, application of the techniques, balance, speed, power, solid stances, and focus. Spinning kicks, jump spinning kicks, flying kicks, multiple kicks, and splits weapon twirls weapon releases, other creative martial arts techniques are permitted. Movements that involve more than a 360 degree spin, require the body to be inverted more than parallel to the floor, or are similar to movements found in gymnastics and/or non martial arts discipline, or forms that meet the above similar to movements found in gymnastics and/or non martial arts disciplines, or forms that meet the above definition of strictly traditional forms, will result in a downgrade of 0.05point by the judges or, upon a unanimous vote of the judges, a “NO SCORE” as a form inappropriate for the division. (Commentary: The Creative Division is intended for those competitors who do not wish to compete with a strictly traditional form, and/or do not wish to compete against other participants who execute extreme gymnastic-type movements. Over the past several years, it was often observed that judging these “CREATIVE” forms in the same division with forms including extreme martial arts “tricks” was essentially comparing apples to oranges, and to be fairer to the participants these divisions should be separated. I.S.K.A Australia has therefore created a separate “EXTREME DIVISION”, as detailed (see extreme division for rules), This has allowed the creative division to include only those forms with movements that originate more inherently from the traditional martial arts systems. Regarding the Creative Weapons Divisions, it is important to note that any particular weapons movements shall “NOT” be a factor in determining whether the weapons form constitutes a Creative or Extreme Form. The determining factor shall be the particular body movements as defined (see Extreme Division). Consequently, a Creative Weapons competitor is permitted to perform weapons moves (i.e., twirls, releases, spins, etc.), but is not permitted to perform “Extreme” body movements (i.e., flips, 540 and above spins or any inverted body moves, etc.) Section 7 F Traditional Weapons Divisions: For safety, a competitor who unintentionally drops his/her weapon will be automatically disqualified. If a competitor recklessly or carelessly misuses his/her weapon, he/she may be penalized or disqualified. The referee should check all weapons for safety. Weapons are subject to referee’s approval (no sharp weapons allowed in youth divisions). The referee should make sure all spectators and competitors are at a safe distance from the performing competitor. Safety of all competitors, judges, spectators and helpers should be considered by all involved. Therefore, the competitor’s control of his/her weapon is of utmost importance. Section 7 G Musical Weapons “(Now Known As Creative Weapons)”: Note this event permits “Music” but is an option for those wishing not to use any type of music. See 7E for rules to this event. Section 7 H Extreme Forms and Weapons Division: Note this event permits “Music” but is an option for those wishing not to use any type of music. The Extreme Division allow the competitor to perform any movements whether they originate from traditional or contemporary martial arts system or otherwise. However, (1) at least half of the form must originate from martial arts techniques, and (2) the competitor must execute at least one technique that involves an inverted move or greater than 360 degree spin. Emphasis is placed on the quality of the execution of techniques and movements, martial arts skills, balance, speed, power, degree of difficulty, and showmanship. In addition, only those movements that portray a definite offensive or defensive martial arts purpose, or are included to illustrate extreme flexibility or agility, are allowed. Inclusion of other movements, or the performance of a form or weapons form meeting the criteria above for a Traditional or Creative form, will result in a downgrade by the judges, or upon a unanimous vote of the judges, a “no score” as a form inappropriate for the division. (Commentary: As martial arts evolves from Traditional to Creative to Extreme, this category allows for the integration of techniques and movements from all martial art styles, gymnastics, acrobatics, dance and athletic disciplines. If a competitor wishes to participate in a division with moves not permitted in the Traditional and Creative Divisions but meeting the guidelines described here, the competitor should compete in the Extreme Division) Section 7 I Starting a Kata / Form Over: If a competitor starts his/her form over due to his/her own negligence, he/she may perform the form again. The officials will score that competitor as though there was not a mistake, but the scorekeeper will deduct 0.50 from the competitor’s total score. A competitor can only start over one (1) time. If a competitor does not finish on the second try, he/she will be disqualified. If a competitor has to start over not due to his/her own negligence, he/she may start over without penalizing. It is important that the referee discuss the penalizing procedure with the judges and scorekeeper. When a competitor starts over, the clock is reset and starts over as well. Section 7 J External Aids: No external aids such as props, weapons, music, etc., can be used in any division except those divisions where it is permissible. No external aids can be used that would damage, disrupt or render the competition area unsafe for the other competitors, spectators or judges. Section 7 K Grand Championship Rounds: The grand championship round is the “Tournament of Champions,” pitting the appropriate first place winners against each other. All competitors should have an equal opportunity to compete at their best. Therefore, routines may be altered or changed, (Note the use of music is restricted to the musical divisions only) The weapon winners must use a weapon in the weapon grand championship round, but it does not have to be the same weapon used during the elimination. A winner of a non-weapon division cannot use a weapon in the grand championship runoff. Section 7 L Ties: To break ties the high and low scores will be added back in to break ties for 2nd through 8th places only. If after adding the high and low, there is still a tie for 2nd through 4th place, the competitors who are tied must perform again to break the tie. Ties for 5th through 8th place are never run off. If there is a tie for first place, the competitors must perform again to break the tie. If there is a second tie, the majority judge’s scores will determine the winner. If this does not break the tie, the competitors will compete again. This rule relates to any non-fighting event. 8. SELF DEFENSE RULES Self defense is an (no live or sharp weapons/music or props allowed) routine where the competitor will defend him/her self from a single or multiple attackers maximum of 4 attackers within the prescribed time limit (3 to 4 minutes), this routine must be done first slowly to show the judges what to expect then the routine will be done at “street speed”. The use of any martial art technique is allowed so as not to hurt your opponent/s. Scoring criteria based on realism, self-defense effectiveness and entertainment value, technique, speed. Professional Martial Arts uniforms are required for all competitors and assistants, no exceptions. Note: routine must be kept within the matted area, stepping out will lead to down grading of competitors score, Weapons used must be of foam type material only Please note that you must use people of the same age or below E.g. if competing in 10 to 12 years your helper/s must not be any older than 12 years of age. 9. SHOWMANSHIP RULES This event is designed to allow the competitor/s to show off there talents within the prescribed time limit (3 to 4 minutes) you are not limited to how many people you wish to use but remember the ring area. The use of weapons, props, music etc is allowed. The event can be of a serious or comical nature; entertainment and skill level are taken into account when scoring this event. As long as the central character is the right age for the division, you can use whomever you please regardless of their age or grade. 10. MISCELLANEOUS EVENTS These events can vary from tournament or promoter some of the events that are currently in use in various circuits around Australia are, Board Breaking – Sumo – Duo Kata – Brazilian Ju-Jitsu, some of these events do rate for rating points while others are trophy events only. 11. TEAM FIGHTING RULES Section 11 A Members of the Team: A team should consist of three (3) fighters. Weight divisions are as follows: Lightweight - 164 pounds and lighter (74.5 kilos)Section 11 B Weight Rule: A lighter fighter can fight up in a heavier weight division, but a heavier fighter cannot fight down in a lighter weight division. Section 11 C Alternatives: Each team can have two registered team alternates. Alternates can replace a team member before a fight begins. Alternates are subject to the weight rule. (Unless open weight division) Section 11 D Fighting Rules: Standard Australian I.S.K.A. point sparring rules will be used; in the open division Black Belt rules apply. Total points for each match will be added together to give the final team score. Each match will be one (1) minute and 30 seconds. A coin toss will determine which team sends up a fighter first. The opposing team will match the fighter sent up with an appropriate fighter of the same weight. Section 11 E Disqualification: Points of the disqualified fighter will be awarded to the opposing team in the event of a disqualification. Intentional and unintentional disqualification’s will be handled differently and determined by the officials. A team cannot win by disqualification in the last match if it is leading, going into the last match. Section 11 F Forfeit: Points will be awarded to the opposing team in the event a team forfeits a match. The officials will handle intentional and unintentional forfeits differently. A team cannot win by forfeiting the final match if it is leading, going into the final match. Section 11 G Ties: If the team’s score is a tie at the end of all the matches, the team, which won the coin toss, can choose one of their team members to fight off sudden victory overtime. The opposing team must match the fighter with an appropriate fighter of the same weight. The sudden victory overtime will be “First Point That Scores, Wins!” 12. FAIRNESS RULE If a question arises that is not covered by this rule book, the arbitrator and/or his/her appointed representative, may at his/her discretion, overrule, modify or change a delineated rule if he/she believes that enforcing such a rule would result in an inherent unfair outcome to a competitor (“Fairness Rule”). However, the arbitrator and/or his/her appointed representative should overrule, modify or change a delineated rule only in extreme cases. (This process shall be carried out in a written form and given either to the Australian head Referee or Australian Head Arbitrator for viewing) 13. JUDGING Section 13 A Sparring: Do’s and Don’ts of Point Calling: Know and understand the rules in their entirety - Only by knowing the rules can you make the split second decisions that are required in point karate judging.Section 13 B Point Definition: A point is a controlled, legal sport karate technique scored by competitor in-bounds which strikes an opponent with the allowable amount of focused touch contact or focused control to a legal target area. Section 13 C Control: Holding back in reverse the amount of force that, if not restrained or pulled short of full contact, could have incapacitated or inflicted serious damage to an opponent. Section 13 D Focused Touch: Light, medium and excessive (see rule book definition on touch contact). Section 13 E Focused Control: No contact is allowed, but the technique must be focused close enough to the “no touch” target area. Section 13 F Decisions of a Point Call: Was it a legal, legitimate sport karate technique?Section 13 G Round Robins: Keep a record of how many points were scored by each competitor, that way in case of a tie you can revert back to the scores to see which competitor scored the most. If this turns out to be a tie also the round/s must be done again until there is a winner. 14. KATA/PATTERN/FORMS AND WEAPONS Section 14 A Judging Categories: Each form and weapon routine is judged on execution, presentation and difficulty. Section 14 B Execution: The act or process of performing (executing) the techniques of the form or weapon routine. The execution stage of judging is the most critical and should weigh the most in the judge’s final score. Section 14 C Elements of Execution: Balance, power speed, stability, proper technique formation, coordination, flexibility, stamina, timing, technique skill etc. Section 14 D Presentation: The image or impression of the competitor as reflected in his/her performance of the form or weapon routine. The presentation stage is the second most important or critical and should weigh accordingly in the judges final score. Section 14 E Elements of the Presentation: Confidence, poise, determination, commitment, imagery, respect, sportsmanship, realism, concentration, spirit, showmanship, appearance, imagination, etc. Section 14 F Difficulty: The complexity and intricacy of the form or weapon routine. The difficulty category is the least critical of the three judging categories, but could become the deciding factor of winning or losing if a judge feels that two competitors are equally as good in the execution and presentation categories. Value should never be awarded for difficult techniques or forms performed poorly. Difficulty alone, without proper execution, should always be downgraded. Section 14 G Elements of Difficulty: First three competitors: Watch the first three competitors before scoring. The first three competitors will give you a representation of the division. The rest of the competitors will be scored against these first three.Section 14 H The Use of Music: Divisions, which allow music: The music should be synchronized with the movements of the form/weapon routine. A judge should hear the beats and rhythm of the music in coordination and synchronization with the techniques in the routine. The music cannot be only background music, but must be an intrinsic part of the form or weapon routine. Section 14 I The Use of Gymnastic Movements (Rules for Traditional and Creative): It is important to keep in mind when judging form and weapon divisions that we are judging technical skill as they relate to the value of martial arts. Using gymnastic movements may or may not have an inherent value to the martial arts. It is the judge’s decision as to what value the gymnastic movements are to the form and the martial arts. If a competitor performs a sub-par gymnastic movement, the movement should be scored down. If the gymnastic movement is performed well, but is not of value to the martial arts, the move may be scored down or ignored. If the gymnastic movement has an inherent value to the martial arts as perceived by the judges, it should be scored as any other technique (i.e., execution, difficulty, presentation). This section does not refer to competitors competing in Extreme Forms and Weapons (refer to section 7H for rules to extreme divisions) 15. WEAPON DIVISION Judging a weapon division is no different than judging an empty hand form division except the main emphasis and value to the form is placed on the competitor’s use of the weapon. Important elements of weapon judging, in addition to execution, presentation and difficulty, are: The competitor’s control of the weapon. The weapon should be seen as an extension of the competitor’s arms and hands. The absolute control of the weapon at all times within the routine is essential.16. CONTACT SPARRING RULES Section 16 A
Winning of a Bout: This can be done 3 ways: 1. By knockout either fully or technical (the 10 count has been applied)Section 16 B Equipment: Sparring equipment as per Australian ISKA Rule Book: Head Gear, Foam Gloves fingers covered, Foam Booties heel and toes covered, Mouth Guard, Groin Guard (optional for females), Chest Guard (females only optional), Other padding such as shin guards forearm protectors etc. is optional. NO CLOTH PROTECTORS AT ALL. NO BAG GLOVES OR ANY OTHER PROTECTOR THAT DOES NOT HAVE SUFFICIENT PADDING. NO STRAPPING OF HANDS OR FEET. Section 16 C Match Times: Match times as per Australian ISKA Rule Book: Under 18 years 1& half minutesSection 16 D Target Areas: Legal target areas leg techniques: (All karate type kicks are allowed): Head (front, sides, top), Body (chest, stomach, ribs, flanks), Foot (only when attempting a sweep). Legal target areas hand techniques: body (chest, stomach, ribs, flanks) Non-Target areas leg techniques: back of head, throat, arms, anywhere below the hips (groin, buttocks, legs, thighs, shins, feet), the back (spine, kidneys). Non-Target areas hand techniques: anywhere above the shoulders (throat, face, head), collar bones, arms, anywhere below the hips (groin, buttocks, legs, thighs, shins, feet), the back (spine, kidneys). Illegal Techniques: head butts, hair pulls, bites scratches, elbows, knees, eye attacks of any kind, take downs, ground fighting, stomps or kicks to a downed opponent, slapping, grabbing, uncontrolled blind techniques, spinning back hands and any other uncontrolled dangerous techniques that are deemed unsafe in sport karate. Section 16 E General Guidelines to Observe: · Stay close to the fighters, but do not get in there way but be there to stop the fight if need be and to assist injured fighters. Remember your major priority is the protection of the fighters.Section 16F Warnings & Disqualifications: · A warning may be given on any breech of the rules.Section 16G Officials: · 1 Centre referee (moving). The referee’s job is to maintain safety whilst keeping a look out for fouls or breeches of the rules.Section 16H Match Decisions: · Legal knockout automatic winner, (10 count applied).PLEASE NOTE THAT RULE VARIATIONS FOR CONTACT SPARRING CAN DIFFER FROM STATE TO STATE CHECK WITH TOURNAMENT PROMOTER FOR A COPY OF THE RULES BEING USED 17. ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS POLICY Alcohol and Prohibited Drugs are “NOT” allowed on any Tournament or Dojo within I.S.K.A. Australia. Smoking is only permitted in designated areas. Prescription drugs that interfere with the ability of any student, or instructor to perform their Training or in the event where they may compete this should be brought to the attention of the I.S.K.A Australia President or the Head of the Dojo you are direct associated with. Whenever the use or misuse of any mind-altering substance (such as alcohol or other Drugs) Which interferes with safety of others or to themselves within the Dojo or Tournament seen. The request to remove the person/s will be carried out immediately. The possession, sale or use of alcohol and other Drugs within the Dojo or at Karate Tournaments held within the I.S.K.A Australia Circuit is a violation of safety and will therefore be the subject to the appropriate action required (e.g. removed from premises, Ban Place on the person/s to enter the Dojo to Train or compete within the I.S.K.A. Australia Circuit.) For more information on Drugs and Alcohol you can contact the Drugs or Alcohol line Phone number various from State to State 18. ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS POLICY STATEMENT I.S.K.A Australia is committed to provide a safe and healthy sports environment. We recognize that alcohol or drug misuse will impair an individual’s ability to perform in a safe manner. It is the policy of I.S.K.A. Australia to protect its members, assets, the community and the environment in which it operates from hazards arising from alcohol or drug misuse. Consequently, we require the performance of anyone within the I.S.KA. Australia organisation whether a member, competitor, family, friend etc. and others to be unimpaired by drug or alcohol misuse whilst associated with any type of activities to do with I.S.K.A. Australia. The legal or unauthorized possession, consumption, sale or being under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs during any type of activity for I.S.KA Australia is prohibited. We view drug or alcohol dependency as a medical condition and encourage any member, non-member or anyone associated with I.S.K.A Australia with a problem to seek confidential support and treatment. Any person/s associated with I.S.K.A Australia found to be in breach of this policy shall be subject to removal from any events associated with I.S.K.A Australia. The above policy is subject to anyone wishing to be in any part of business associated with I.S.K.A Australia. 19. HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY This policy recognizes that the health and safety of all I.S.K.A Australia members or employees is the responsibility of all in maintaining a Health and safety environment within the organisation. I.S.K.A. Australia acknowledges its legal, moral and social responsibility to provide a healthy and safe workplace/ training, and to secure the health and safety of its employees, members and visitors. All members involve with I.S.K.A Australia must provide and maintain a safe training and equipment within the organisation. It is the responsibility of all within I.S.K.A Australia to recognize the hazards occurring within the organisation, I.S.K.A. Australia will take every practical step to provide and maintain a safe and health environment for its members. Members who run their own clubs and are in charge or own their own training facilities are responsible for the effective implementation of their company or dojo training facilities health and safety policy. Must observe, implement and fulfill its responsibilities under the acts and regulations that apply to I.S.K.A. Australia. Must make regular assessments of safety performances within their clubs facilities. Must provide clear training instructions to all its members to limit risk of any injuries. Students or Members within the I.S.K.A Australia organisation have a duty to take the care of which they are capable for their own health and safety and others affected by their actions at training or when competing at tournaments. Shall comply with the safety procedures and directions agreed within the Dojo rules. Must not interfere with or misuse items or facilities provided in the interests of health, safety and welfare for all within the organisation. I.S.K.A Australia urge all its members to review their Health and Safety requirements at all times and for anymore information to contact Work cover within their State. Version 7.6
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