Rules

International Sports Karate Association
Australia
Sports Karate Rules

2016
This rulebook contains the standard rules that all sanctioned International Sports Karate
Association (ISKA) Sports Karate events are to be conducted in the Oceanic Region, including
but not limited to Australia and New Zealand.
Competitions conducted outside the Oceanic Region may be subject to alternate rules.
When entering competition outside the Oceanic Region, Competitors are advised to ensure
they become familiar with the rules with which the competition is being conducted under.
This rulebook is a rebase of the original ISKA Australasian rules version fifteen (15). As such
these rules shall be known as the International Sports Karate Association Australian, Sports
Karate Rulebook 2016, version 1, or simply the ISKA Rulebook.
No alteration or adjustments to this rulebook will be made within thirty (30) days of any
sanctioned event. All alteration and adjustments will be passed by a majority vote of the
International Sports Karate Association Incorporated Board of Directors. Any alterations or
adjustments will be generally communicated by the most appropriate channel as
determined by the International Sports Karate Association Incorporated Board of Directors.
DOCUMENT CHANGE CONTROLS
Version Document Changes
V1: Jan 2016
V2: May 2016 Sections 6.4, 6.5 and 6.7
V3: July 2016 Sections 6.3 and 6.6
V4: July 2016 Sections 11.1 and Appendix B
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Contents
1. Jurisdiction ...................................................................................................................................... 9
2. General Rules .................................................................................................................................. 9
2.1 No Tolerance Rule ......................................................................................................................... 9
2.2 Competitor Preparation ................................................................................................................ 9
2.3 Delay of Time Penalty ................................................................................................................. 10
2.3.1 Sparring: ............................................................................................................................... 10
2.3.2 Non Sparring Events:............................................................................................................ 10
2.4 Rank Matching Rule .................................................................................................................... 10
2.5 Proof of Age Rule ........................................................................................................................ 10
2.6 Legal Age Rule ............................................................................................................................. 10
2.7 Uniform ....................................................................................................................................... 11
2.7.1 Sparring: ............................................................................................................................... 11
2.7.2 Non-Sparring: i.e. Kata/form/patterns, traditional weapons .............................................. 11
2.8 Protest ......................................................................................................................................... 11
2.9 Late Entries ................................................................................................................................. 11
2.10 Weigh-in .................................................................................................................................... 12
2.11 Order of Competition ................................................................................................................ 12
2.12 Fairness Rule ............................................................................................................................. 12
2.13 Gender Segregation .................................................................................................................. 12
3. Functions of Officials ..................................................................................................................... 13
3.1 Timekeeper ................................................................................................................................. 13
3.2 Scorekeeper ................................................................................................................................ 13
3.2.1 Non-sparring: ....................................................................................................................... 13
3.2.2 Sparring: ............................................................................................................................... 13
3.3 Centre Referee ............................................................................................................................ 13
3.4 Judges.......................................................................................................................................... 14
3.4.1 Timeliness of Decision Making: ............................................................................................ 14
3.5 Number of Officials ..................................................................................................................... 14
3.6 Removal of Officials .................................................................................................................... 14
3.7 Changing of Officials ................................................................................................................... 15
4. Competition Area .......................................................................................................................... 16
5. Sports Karate Point Sparring Rules ............................................................................................... 17
5.1 Required & Recommended Safety Equipment ........................................................................... 17
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5.1.1 Hand Pads: ........................................................................................................................... 17
5.1.2 Foot Pads:............................................................................................................................. 17
5.1.3 Headgear: ............................................................................................................................. 17
5.1.4 Mouthguard: ........................................................................................................................ 17
5.1.5 Inappropriate Equipment: ................................................................................................... 17
5.2 Judging Calls ................................................................................................................................ 18
5.2.1 Judge Sees a Point: ............................................................................................................... 18
5.2.2 Point Calling: ........................................................................................................................ 18
5.2.3 No Point Scored: .................................................................................................................. 18
5.2.4 Did Not See: ......................................................................................................................... 18
5.2.5 Clash: .................................................................................................................................... 18
5.2.6 Penalty: ................................................................................................................................ 18
5.2.7 Disqualification: ................................................................................................................... 18
5.3 Length of Match .......................................................................................................................... 18
5.4 Point Values and Winner Determination .................................................................................... 19
5.4.1 The Winner is Determined by: ............................................................................................. 19
5.5 How Points are Awarded ............................................................................................................ 19
5.5.1 What is a Point? ................................................................................................................... 19
5.5.2 Legal Target Areas: ............................................................................................................... 20
5.5.3 Illegal Target Areas:.............................................................................................................. 20
5.5.4 Non-Target Areas: ................................................................................................................ 20
5.6 Legal Techniques ......................................................................................................................... 20
5.7 Illegal Techniques........................................................................................................................ 20
5.7.1 Grabbing:.............................................................................................................................. 20
5.7.2 Sweeps, Takedowns, Grabs and Ground Fighting:............................................................... 20
5.8 Contact ........................................................................................................................................ 21
5.8.1 Light Touch Contact: ............................................................................................................ 21
5.8.2 Moderate Touch Contact: .................................................................................................... 21
5.8.3 Excessive Contact: ................................................................................................................ 21
5.8.4 Touch Contact Requirements: ............................................................................................. 22
5.9 Penalties ...................................................................................................................................... 22
5.9.1 Warnings & Penalties: .......................................................................................................... 22
5.9.2 Other Penalty Rules: ............................................................................................................ 22
5.9.3 Causes of Penalising: ............................................................................................................ 23
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5.10 Disqualification ......................................................................................................................... 23
5.10.1 Non-Competing Penalty: .................................................................................................... 24
5.10.2 Wrong Division: .................................................................................................................. 24
5.10.3 Out of Bounds: ................................................................................................................... 24
5.10.4 Coaching:............................................................................................................................ 24
6. Sports Karate Kata/Pattern/Forms ............................................................................................... 25
6.1 Time Limit.................................................................................................................................... 25
6.2 Traditional Kata/Forms Divisions ................................................................................................ 25
6.3 Creative Forms Division - Musical Kata/Patterns/Forms/Weapons ........................................... 25
6.4 Traditional Weapons Divisions.................................................................................................... 26
6.5 Musical Weapons/Creative Weapons ......................................................................................... 26
6.6 Extreme Forms and Weapons Division ....................................................................................... 26
6.7 Starting a Kata/Form Over .......................................................................................................... 27
6.8 External Aids ............................................................................................................................... 27
6.9 Grand Championship Rounds ..................................................................................................... 27
6.10 Ties ............................................................................................................................................ 28
7. Self-Defense Rules ........................................................................................................................ 29
8. Showmanship and Demonstration ............................................................................................... 30
9. Non-Rating Events......................................................................................................................... 31
10. Team Sparring Rules ................................................................................................................. 32
10.1 Alternatives ............................................................................................................................... 32
10.2 Team Sparring Rules ................................................................................................................. 32
10.3 Disqualification ......................................................................................................................... 32
10.4 Forfeit ........................................................................................................................................ 32
10.5 Ties ............................................................................................................................................ 33
11. Contact Sparring ....................................................................................................................... 34
11.1 Winning of a Bout ..................................................................................................................... 34
11.2 Equipment ................................................................................................................................. 34
11.3 Match Times.............................................................................................................................. 34
11.4 Target Areas .............................................................................................................................. 34
11.4.1 Legal Target Areas for Leg Techniques: ............................................................................. 34
11.4.2 Legal Target Areas for Hand Techniques: .......................................................................... 34
11.4.3 Non-Target Areas Leg Techniques: .................................................................................... 35
11.4.4 Non-Target Areas Hand Techniques: ................................................................................. 35
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11.4.5 Illegal Techniques:.............................................................................................................. 35
11.5 Warnings and Disqualifications................................................................................................. 35
11.6 Match Decisions ........................................................................................................................ 35
12. Clash Sparring ........................................................................................................................... 36
12.1 General Rules ............................................................................................................................ 36
12.2 Competitor ................................................................................................................................ 37
12.3 Delay of Start-Time Penalty ...................................................................................................... 37
12.4 Rank Rules ................................................................................................................................. 37
12.5 Proof of Age Rule ...................................................................................................................... 37
12.6 Legal Age Rule ........................................................................................................................... 37
12.7 Uniform ..................................................................................................................................... 38
12.8 Competitor Responsibilities ...................................................................................................... 38
12.9 Required and Recommended Safety Equipment ...................................................................... 38
12.10 Officials ................................................................................................................................... 39
12.11 Protest ..................................................................................................................................... 39
12.12 Late Entries ............................................................................................................................. 40
12.13 The Ring .................................................................................................................................. 40
12.14 Weighing-in ............................................................................................................................. 40
12.15 Order of Competition .............................................................................................................. 40
12.16 Length of Match ...................................................................................................................... 41
12.17 Point Values and Winner Determination ................................................................................ 41
12.17.1 What is a “Scoring Technique”? ....................................................................................... 41
12.17.2 What is a “Scoring Combination”? ................................................................................... 41
12.17.3 Counter-Scoring: .............................................................................................................. 41
12.17.4 “Combination Attacks” and “Combination Counters”: .................................................... 42
12.18 Target Areas ............................................................................................................................ 42
12.18.1 Legal Target Areas: ........................................................................................................... 42
12.18.2 Illegal Target Areas: ......................................................................................................... 43
12.18.3 Non-Target Areas: ............................................................................................................ 43
12.18.4 Legal Techniques: ............................................................................................................. 43
12.18.5 Illegal Techniques:............................................................................................................ 43
12.19 Grabbing.................................................................................................................................. 43
12.20 Sweeps, Takedowns, Grabs and Ground Sparring .................................................................. 43
12.21 Breaking .................................................................................................................................. 44
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12.22 Warnings and Penalties .......................................................................................................... 44
12.22.1 Other Penalty Rules: ........................................................................................................ 44
12.22.2 Other Cause for Penalisation: .......................................................................................... 44
12.23 Disqualification ....................................................................................................................... 44
12.23.1Non-Competing Penalty:................................................................................................... 45
12.23.2 Wrong Division: ................................................................................................................ 45
12.24 Coaching.................................................................................................................................. 45
12.25 Out-of-Bounds......................................................................................................................... 45
12.26 Fairness Rule ........................................................................................................................... 45
13. Sumo Rules................................................................................................................................ 47
13.1 General Rules ............................................................................................................................ 47
13.2 Starting Position ........................................................................................................................ 47
13.3 Legal Scoring Techniques .......................................................................................................... 47
13.4 Illegal Techniques...................................................................................................................... 47
13.5 Equipment Required ................................................................................................................. 48
14. Sword Combat Rules ................................................................................................................. 49
14.1 Starting Position ........................................................................................................................ 49
14.2 Scoring Points............................................................................................................................ 49
14.3 Legal Scoring Techniques .......................................................................................................... 49
14.4 Illegal Techniques...................................................................................................................... 49
14.5 Equipment Required ................................................................................................................. 49
15. Team Synchronise Form............................................................................................................ 50
15.1 General Rules ............................................................................................................................ 50
16. Tricking ...................................................................................................................................... 51
16.1 General Rules ............................................................................................................................ 51
16.2 Rounds ...................................................................................................................................... 51
16.3 Judging ...................................................................................................................................... 51
17. Breaking Championship Divisions ............................................................................................. 52
17.1 Power Concrete ........................................................................................................................ 52
17.1.1 Scoring Criteria:.................................................................................................................. 52
17.1.2 Additional Rules: ................................................................................................................ 52
17.2 Creative ..................................................................................................................................... 52
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17.3 Combat Wood Breaking ............................................................................................................ 54
17.4 Power Wood Kicks .................................................................................................................... 54
17.5 Ultimate .................................................................................................................................... 55
17.5.1 Scoring:............................................................................................................................... 55
18. Appendix A ................................................................................................................................ 57
19. Appendix B ................................................................................................................................ 58
20. Appendix C ................................................................................................................................ 62
LEVELS 1 & 2 CENTRE JUDGE AND REFEREES UNIFORM .................................................................. 62
LEVELS 3, 4 & 5 CENTRE JUDGE AND REFEREES POLO TOP UNIFORM ............................................. 62
CENTRE REFEREE AND JUDGES HAND SIGNALS ................................................................................ 63
COMPETITOR UNFORM .................................................................................................................... 65
SPARRING AND SUMO SAFETY GEAR ................................................................................................ 66
CLASH SPARRING SAFETY GEAR ........................................................................................................ 67
SUMO ................................................................................................................................................ 68
SWORD COMBAT .............................................................................................................................. 69
21. Definitions ................................................................................................................................. 71
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1. Jurisdiction
All events sanctioned by the International Sports Karate Association Incorporated Board of
Directors in which sports karate competition is conducted shall be governed by the rules set
forth in this Rule book without exception or modification.
2. General Rules
2.1 No Tolerance Rule

ISKA prides itself on providing a fair, safe and competitive playing field. As a result poor
sportsmanship and displays of disrespect to any individual present at any event will not be
tolerated.
Further to the above statement the following rules have been established in the interests of
the Competitor, official, and spectator;
 Any Competitor who conducts themselves in a way unbecoming of a Martial Artist

will be immediately dismissed from the event and will be considered for suspension
from future events
 Behaviour that is grounds for dismissal and is considered unbecoming includes but is
not limited to, foul language, verbal or physical threats to another individual,
argumentative encounters with an official or other individual
 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
 Any spectator who behaves in an unbecoming manner or is disrespectful towards
another individual will be immediately dismissed from a given event
 The designated Arbitrator for the event and/or a Director reserve the right to expel
any person present from an event in accordance with these guidelines at their
discretion
2.2 Competitor Preparation

Competitors must present themselves to the Centre Referee suitably attired and physically
prepared to compete. Jewellery or any object that the Centre Referee feels might endanger
either Competitor cannot be worn. Fingernails 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 the Competitor is not suitably attired or
physically prepared to compete as deemed by the Centre Referee, the Competitor may be
penalised for delay of time. It is the Competitor’s responsibility to know the rules. Three
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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 their
name is called, their name will be called three (3) times at ringside. If they are still not
present to compete on the final call they will be disqualified.
2.3 Delay of Time Penalty
2.3.1 Sparring:
If a Competitor does not present 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.
2.3.2 Non 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. If the Competitor is still not ready to compete after three (3) minutes have
expired, they will be automatically disqualified.
2.4 Rank Matching Rule

All Competitors must compete at the highest belt level they have earned in the Martial Arts.
Once a Competitor competes as a black belt, they must always compete as a black belt. In
the case of Divisions being combined the Competitor may be offered to compete at a higher
level, they do not have to accept the offer; they are still entitled to their trophy and points
for the original Division.
2.5 Proof of Age Rule

All Competitors must have proof of age. If there is a reason to question a Competitor’s age,
they must present a birth certificate, driver’s license, or passport to prove their age. If proof
of age cannot be presented and the Competitor wins a division the award(s) and rating
points (if rating points awarded) will be held until proof of age is provided. Proof of age
must be provided within seven days of the event date otherwise no rating points will be
awarded.
2.6 Legal Age Rule

The age a Competitor is on the 30thJuneof the current competition year is their legal
competition age for that year. All Competitors have the option of competing in the same
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Division all year long for rating purposes by establishing a legal competition age for the year.
The legal age rule is developed for rating purposes only.
2.7 Uniform
2.7.1 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 uniform or if they
list the schools name or logo on the uniform top. A Competitor with offensive words or
offensive artwork on the uniform will be denied the privilege of participation. The
appropriate colour belt or sash must be worn in competition.
2.7.2 Non-Sparring: i.e. Kata/form/patterns, traditional weapons

T-shirts, tank tops and sweatshirts are allowed if they are part of a Competitor’s official
school uniform 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.
2.8 Protest
A Competitor has the right to protest an infraction of the rules or if a rule mistake was
made, not if a judgment call was made. Should a Competitor wish to protest they must first
let the Centre Referee know they believe there has been an infraction of the rules or a
mistake made.
The Centre Referee will summon the Arbitrator to the ring to render a decision if the Centre
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 penalised if they are protesting improperly or without proper cause.
2.9 Late Entries

Late entries will only be accepted until the commencement of the Division. Once a Division
has commenced i.e. the first Competitor has started their routine or the first fight has
started, no additional Competitor/s can be added to the Division.
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2.10 Weigh-in
It is mandatory for all Competitors, who compete in a weighted Division, to weigh-in before
engaging in competition. Only one official weigh-in is required. If any Official feels a
Competitor is trying to mask their weight by wearing unreasonable clothes or equipment,
they will be asked to remove those articles of clothing before weighing-in. A Competitor
cannot compete in a weight division in which they do 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.
2.11 Order of Competition

Once the final call for Competitors of a Division has been made at ringside, the Centre
Referee and their 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 placenames 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.
2.12 Fairness Rule

If a question arises that is not covered by this rule book, the Arbitrator and/or their
appointed representative, may at their discretion overrule, modify or change a delineated
rule if they believe that enforcing such a rule would result in an inherent unfair outcome to
a Competitor. However, this should only be undertaken in extreme cases and after careful
consideration. This process shall be carried out in a written form and given either to the
Australian Head Referee or a Director and must be taken to the next meeting of the Board.
2.13 Gender Segregation

ISKA will separate Divisions into male and female as it sees fit. Competitors are not permitted to
compete in a Division that is gazetted as being for the opposite gender to the one found on their
legal identification.
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3. Functions of Officials
3.1 Timekeeper
The Timekeeper assists in monitoring the duration of a match. They will start and stop time
at the command of the Centre Referee and will inform the Centre Referee when the time
has expired. In sparring, the Timekeeper does not start or stop the match. Their only duty is
to keep time for the Centre Referee.
3.2 Scorekeeper
3.2.1 Non-sparring:
The Scorekeeper is the appointed helper to keep score. They will write down the form
scores from each judge, eliminate the high and low scores, in the instance of five or more
judges present and add the remaining scores to attain a total score. The Scorekeeper should
check their addition a second time, calculators are recommended.
3.2.2 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 Competitor 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 Centre 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.
3.3 Centre Referee

The Centre Referee should be the most experienced Official in the ring and be thoroughly
versed on the rules. They are in complete charge of the ring and the match. They promote
the safety of the Competitors, enforce the rules and ensure fair play. To this end, they start
and stop the match, awards points, make penalty decisions, administrate the voting of the
other judges, communicate clearly with the Scorekeeper and Timekeeper and announce the
winner of each match. The Centre Referee shall announce in a loud clear voice all official
decisions and shall indicate both verbally and via the use of gestures the Competitor
affected by any official decision(s).
The Centre Referee has the following authority over;
 The match start and end on their command (not the command of the Timekeeper)
 Has final decision on any disputes on score
 Has the power to issue warnings and award penalty points without a majority
decision
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 Can overrule a majority call only to issue a warning or penalty point
 Automatically has power to disqualify a Competitor who receives three (3) penalty
points
 Has power to issue time-outs. A Competitor can ask for a time-out but it is the up to
the discretion of the Centre Referee to issue one
3.4 Judges
The Judges call points as they see them. The Centre Referee may consult the Judges to help
in determining penalties or warnings although the Centre Referee alone has the power to
issue them. Judges will be asked to make a call on rulings where the disqualification rulings
apply. It is the majority vote of the Judges and Centre Referee that determines a scoring
point.
3.4.1 Timeliness of Decision Making:

All officials should make their decisions at the same time. If in the opinion of the Centre
Referee, a Corner Judge is deemed to be making a decision intentionally slowly, the Centre
Referee has the right to disqualify or cancel the decision. Noise not allowing the Judges to
hear the Centre Referee and the honest mistake of raising the wrong hand should be taken
into consideration.
3.5 Number of Officials

A minimum of three (3) officials are required for all Divisions.
3.6 Removal of Officials

If a Competitor feels that an Official should be removed from a Non-sparring Division for
legitimate reason, such as, the Official has demonstrated a bias towards a Competitor(s) is
abusive or applies rules which are not within this rulebook. The Competitor must file a
protest before the Division begins with the event Arbitrator or a Director. For example, if a
Competitor has had a previous dealing with an Official in a tournament and they feel that
this Official shows bias then they must file a protest before their Division begins to have
them remove.
If a Competitor feels that an Official should be removed from a Sparring Division they may
file a protest at any time. It is responsibility of the event Arbitrator or a Director to
determine if an Official should be removed. A protest can be file either verbally or in
writing.
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3.7 Changing of Officials
An official cannot be changed in any form, kata, patterns, weapons, extreme forms, extreme
weapons, showmanship and self-defence Division until the Division they are judging has
concluded.
However, in sparring and point fighting sword combat as each bout is classified as individual
events changing of an Official can occur only but only if required.
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4. Competition Area
The size of the standard ring shall be approximately seven (7) metres by seven (7) metres,
six (6) metres by six (6) metres is acceptable 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.
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5. Sports Karate Point Sparring Rules
5.1 Required & Recommended Safety Equipment

ISKA approved headgear; hand and foot pads, mouthguards and groin cups (for male
Competitors only) are mandatory for all Competitors in all Sparring Divisions. As a result 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.
Oceanic 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, the Competitor will be asked to
change the equipment before they can compete. The following is a list of important and
required features of ISKA approved safety equipment.
5.1.1 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, side of the hand, back of the fist, and the
knuckles must be covered with a soft padded surface. No cloth protectors or leather type
boxing gloves.
5.1.2 Foot Pads:

A soft padded surface must cover the instep, sides, toes, ankle, and back of the heel of the
foot. No cloth protectors.
5.1.3 Headgear:
The front, sides and back of the head must be covered by a soft padded surface.
5.1.4 Mouthguard:
A properly fitted mouthpiece is required.
5.1.5 Inappropriate Equipment:

Insufficiently 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 are also
prohibited. The event Arbitrator ultimately determines the approval or denial of the
equipment.
As ISKA is involved in the promotion and participation in sport karate, only Karate, TaeKwon
Do and Kung Fu equipment will be allowed. Boxing and other contact sports equipment are
not allowed in ISKA events. Shin, elbow, rib, knee, and breast protectors for female
Competitors are recommended for additional safety to all sparring Competitors.
The strapping of hands is prohibited.
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5.2 Judging Calls
When the Centre Referee believes there has been a significant exchange of technique or
when signalled to do so by a Judge, they shall call out the word, “STOP” in a loud voice.
The Centre 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.
5.2.1 Judge Sees a Point:

They should hold up one arm and at the same time as they yell out the word “CALL” in a
loud clear voice to let the Centre Referee know they have a call.
5.2.2 Point Calling:

When signalled by the Centre Referee, a Judge raises the appropriate arm and indicates
their score. If a Competitor scores a two-point kick, the Officials should hold up two fingers,
specifically the index and middle fingers creating a “V” sign. If only one point is being called,
the Judge should raise an open hand.
5.2.3 No Point Scored:

An Official crosses his/her wrists at waist level to indicate that they believe that a point was
not scored.
5.2.4 Did Not See:

Should the Official not see a possible point as indicated by another Official, they should hold
their hands over their eyes indicating that they could not see whether a point was scored or
not.
5.2.5 Clash:
Should the Official believe that the Competitors scored at the same time they are to make a
motion as though they are hitting both fists together.
5.2.6 Penalty:
Should the Official believe that a penalty was made, they are to raise their fist of the
offending Competitor above his head.
5.2.7 Disqualification:
A disqualification vote is taken separately from any other votes. When a disqualification
vote is asked for, the Centre 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, they are to cross his/her wrists at waist level.
5.3 Length of Match

An elimination match shall have a running time of one and a half (1 ½) minutes for under 18
year or two (2) minutes for 18 years and over, unless a Competitor earns enough points to
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be declared the winner before the time is up. Running time means that the clock continues
to run during point calls, unless the Centre Referee calls for a time out. During unusually
long point calls, equipment adjustments, or rule clarifications, the Centre 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 until the first Competitor to score a point is declared the winner.
All grand champion fighting matches will be a single, two (2) minute round. The Competitor
with the most points at the end of the round will be declared the winner.
5.4 Point Values and Winner Determination

Head kicks will be valued at two (2) points.
Kicks to the body and all hand techniques will be valued at one (1) point.
All penalty points awarded will be one (1) point value.
5.4.1 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 the Competitor who is ahead wins. In the event of a
draw, the two Competitors will fight until the next clean point is awarded by the Centre
Referee.
5.5 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 awarded
otherwise no point is awarded.
5.5.1 What is a Point?

A point is a controlled legal sport karate technique scored by a Competitor that is 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:
 Was it a legitimate and legal sport karate technique?

 Was it delivered with the required focused control or allowed focused touch contact
to a legal target area?
 Was the Competitor who scored in-bounds?
 Has the match been stopped by the Centre Referee?
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 Was either Competitor downed illegally when the point was scored?
 Was the Competitor who scored the point in control and well balanced?
 Was the technique delivered with an amount of “controlled force” that would have
incapacitated the Opponent, at least momentarily, if the technique had not been
controlled?
5.5.2 Legal Target Areas:

Legal target areas include the entire head and face, ribs, abdomen, collar bone and kidney
area.
5.5.3 Illegal Target Areas:

Illegal target areas include the back and spine area, back of neck, throat and sides of the
neck, groin, legs and knees. Any attacks to these areas will result in a warning, penalty
points and/or disqualification.
5.5.4 Non-Target Areas:

Non-target areas include the hips, shoulders, buttocks, arms, and feet. 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.
5.6 Legal Techniques

Legal techniques are all controlled sport karate techniques. 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.
5.7 Illegal Techniques

Illegal techniques include, head butts, hair pull, bites, scratches, elbows, knees, any attacks
to the eye area of any kind, takedowns 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.
5.7.1 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, after which time they must release the leg.
5.7.2 Sweeps, Takedowns, Grabs and Ground Fighting:

Sweeps are not to take down an Opponent but only to obstruct the balance. This can only
be executed to the front leg at mid-calf or below. These described sweeps are legal on all
types of fighting surfaces. 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
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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. 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.
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 counter attack
to an upright opponent or executing a counter attack 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 they have two (2) seconds to score. The Centre Referee will say, “Stop” after
two (2) seconds. Either Competitor may score in the allotted two (2) 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.
5.8 Contact
5.8.1 Light Touch Contact:

Light touch 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
headgear in all Youth Competitors and under black belt Competitors but must be
approximately ten centimetres (10cm) away without being blocked.
5.8.2 Moderate Touch Contact:

Moderate touch contact means there is slight penetration or slight target movement.
Moderate touch may be made to all legal target areas except the head and face.
5.8.3 Excessive Contact:

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:
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 Visible snapping back of a Competitor’s head from the force of a blow
 A knockdown of an Opponent (not recklessly charging into a technique or occurring
in instances where the fallen party either fell, slipped, or was off balance)
 A knockout of an Opponent
 The appearance of severe swelling or bleeding. (Bleeding or other obvious external
injury may in itself be grounds for excessive contact if it is considered the fault of a
Competitor. Bleeding, however, does not necessarily imply excessive contact).
 The distortion or injury of the body from the force of a blow to the body
5.8.4 Touch Contact Requirements:

All adult black belts must make light touch contact to the face and head (headgear) to score
a point and light or moderate touch contact to the body to score a point.
Youth black belts cannot make any contact to the face but light touch contact is allowed to
the headgear. Please note that youth black belts do not have to touch the head gear with
light contact but can score by delivering a controlled, well focused technique approximately
three centimetres (3cm) from the head gear or face. Youth black belts must make light or
moderate contact to the body to score a point.
No face contact is allowed in any under black belt division (youth or adult), but light touch
contact is allowed to the headgear.
Delivering a well-focused controlled technique close to the face or headgear may score a
point/s. The higher the rank, the closer the technique should be. All under black belt
Competitors must make light or moderate touch contact to the body to score a point.
5.9 Penalties
5.9.1 Warnings & Penalties:

Only one (1) 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 (4) warnings (giving 3 penalty points to his/her
opponent), in any one match, they are automatically disqualified and his/her opponent is
declared the winner. If the result on the first infraction is considered by the Centre Referee
to be severe enough they can omit the first warning and issue a penalty point automatically.
In doing so, the Centre Referee is omitting any first warning to the offending Competitor. A
penalty point can determine the winner of a match.
5.9.2 Other Penalty Rules:

A Competitor cannot be penalized and still received a point on the same call. A penalty
always overrules a point by the same Competitor.
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A Competitor can receive a point because their Opponent was penalised and at the same
time receive a point for scoring. Example: Competitor “A” receives two (2) points because
they scored with a kick to Competitor “B” and at the same time Competitor “B” hits
Competitor “A” with excessive contact, therefore receiving a penalty.
If, in the opinion of the Centre Referee or medical personnel a Competitor is unable to
continue because of an injury caused by an illegal attack executed by their Opponent, the
offending Competitor shall be automatically disqualified.
If a Competitor is injured and it is considered that they are responsible for his/her own
injury, or no fault can be associated with the injury, the opponent will not be penalized (i.e.,
ducking into a knee, butting heads, etc.) In the event a fighter is unable to continue because
of a no-fault foul, his/her opponent will be declared the winner even if they are not ahead
at the time of the foul.
If a Competitor scores a point and immediately proceeds to break the rules, even if it was
after the point technique, the warning for breaking the rules voids the point (a Competitor
cannot receive a point and a warning on the same call).
5.9.3 Causes of Penalising:

This is a partial list of possible causes of penalising and may be used as a guideline to follow:
 Attacking illegal and non-target areas

 Using illegal techniques
 Running out of the ring to avoid fighting (not fighting out)
 Falling to the floor to avoid fighting
 Continuing after being ordered to stop (fighting after break)
 Excessive stalling
 Blind, negligent or reckless attacks
 Uncontrolled techniques
 Any unsportsmanlike behaviour from the Competitor or their coach, team-mates,
family, friends, etc.
 Any abusive behaviour from the Competitor or their coach, team-mates, family,
friends, etc., such that the Centre Referee feels it affects the outcome of the match
or the performance of the Officials or other Competitors
 Excessive contact
 Not being prepared or ready when it is time to compete
5.10 Disqualification
Disqualification of a Competitor requires a majority vote by all Officials, except when a
Competitor is automatically disqualified when they receive three (3) penalty points. When a
Competitor is disqualified it is proper to notify the tournaments Arbitrator. A Competitor
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who bows out or accepts a bow out of any grand championship match may be disqualified.
If so, all awards and rating points are forfeited. A Competitor who is disqualified for
misconduct or malicious behaviour in a final round will not be awarded the trophy or rating
points.
5.10.1 Non-Competing Penalty:

If in the event of a majority opinion of the Officials 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.
5.10.2 Wrong Division:

If any Competitor competes in a Division they are not qualified for because of age, weight,
gender or style, they will be disqualified.
5.10.3 Out of Bounds:

A Competitor is out-of-bounds as soon as they do not have at least one foot touching inside
or on the boundary line. Stepping out-of-bounds does not immediately stop the match. The
Centre Referee is the only one who can stop the match. An out-of-bounds Competitor may
be scored on by their Opponent so long as the in-bounds Competitor has at least one foot in
bounds and the Centre Referee has not signalled to stop. In the event of a jumping/flying
technique, the attacking Competitor must land with one-foot in-bounds in order to score.
5.10.4 Coaching:
Coaching is a luxury that most Competitors do not have access to at all times. Therefore, it
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:
 Never at any time, can coaches, friend/s, team member, etc.; enter the ring without
the Centre Referee’s permission. Only the Officials, Competitors and medical
personnel are normally allowed in a ring
 No abusive, violent, unsportsmanlike or overzealous coaching is allowed
 A coach cannot ask for a time out (only a Competitor may ask for a time out)
 A coach can never, at any time, interfere with the proper running of the ring or the
decisions of the Judges
The Centre Referee will issue penalties for any of the above coaching infractions.
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6. Sports Karate Kata/Pattern/Forms
6.1 Time Limit

A Competitor must be ready to compete when called upon to do so. All Competitors have a
maximum of 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 they enter
the ring, they 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 or finals
will receive five (5) minutes to present and perform their routine.
6.2 Traditional Kata/Forms Divisions

Competitors in Traditional Karate/Forms Divisions 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 creative division.
Otherwise the Competitor risks disqualification or down grading.
6.3 Creative Forms Division - Musical Kata/Patterns/Forms/Weapons

The Creative Forms Division allows forms to include contemporary martial arts techniques
that have evolved. These may be added to traditional form or the Competitor may devise
the form in its entirety.
A form in the Creative Forms 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 split weapon twirls,
weapon releases and other creative martial arts techniques are permitted.
Movements that involve more than a 360 degree spin and requires 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 definition of strictly traditional forms, will
result in a downgrade of 0.50point by the Judges or upon a unanimous vote of the Judges a
‘no score’ can be issued if the form is deemed inappropriate for the Division.
For safety, a Competitor who unintentionally drops their weapon is automatically

disqualified and the lowest score will apply for that event. For example, if the score range is
between 7.5 and 8.5, each individual Judge will score 7.5. If a Competitor recklessly or
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carelessly misuses his/her weapon they may be penalised or disqualified and a zero score
will be given.
This event permits the use of “Music” but it is not a requirement.
6.4 Traditional Weapons Divisions

will be given.
The Centre Referee should check all weapons for safety. Weapons are subject to Centre
Referee’s approval (no sharp weapons are allowed in Youth Divisions). The Centre 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.
6.5 Musical Weapons/Creative Weapons

This event permits the use of “Music” but it is not a requirement. See section 6.3 for
general rules of this event.
6.6 Extreme Forms and Weapons Division

The Extreme Division allow the Competitor to perform any movements whether they
originate from traditional or contemporary martial arts system or otherwise. However at
least half of the form must originate from martial arts techniques and 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 the 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’ can be issued if the form is deemed
inappropriate for the Division.
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will be given.
This event permits the use of “Music” but it is not a requirement
6.7 Starting a Kata/Form Over

A Competitor may start their form over, due to their own negligence within the first five
moves. The Officials will score that Competitor as though there was not a mistake made but
the Scorekeeper will deduct 0.50 points from the Competitor’s total score. A Competitor
can only start over once. If a Competitor does not finish on the second try, they will be
between 7.5 and 8.5, each individual Judge will score 7.5.
If a Competitor has to start over not due to their own negligence, they may start over
without being penalising. It is important that the Centre Referee discuss the penalising
procedure with the Judges and Scorekeeper. When a Competitor starts over the clock is
reset.
6.8 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
Officials.
6.9 Grand Championship Rounds

The Grand Championship round is the “Tournament of Champions,” putting 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 including, not having
to use the same weapon used during the elimination.
However, a winner of a Non-Weapon Division cannot use a weapon in the Grand

Championship.
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6.10 Ties
To break ties the high and low scores will be added back in to break ties for 1st through to
4thplaces only. If after adding the high and low scores there is still a tie for 1stthrough to
4thplace, the Competitors who are tied must perform again to break the tie. Ties for
5ththrough to 8thplace are never run off. If there is a tie for 1stplace, 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 is applicable to all non-fighting event.
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7. Self-Defense Rules
Self-defense is a routine where the Competitor will defend themselves’ from a single or
multiple attackers. A maximum of four (4) attackers are allowed within the time limit of
three (3) to four (4) minutes. The 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. No live
or sharp weapons are permitted and no music is permitted.
Scoring criteria based on realism, self-defense effectiveness and entertainment value,

technique and speed. Professional Martial Arts uniforms are required for all Competitors
and assistants, no exceptions. The routine must be kept within the matted area, stepping
out will lead to downgrading of Competitors score. Any weapons used must be of foam,
rubber or wood type material only.
The Centre Referee has the right to ask the Competitor to remove or replace any weapons
that may be deemed dangerous or may lead to causing injury to the Competitor others.
Please note that you must use people of the same age or below. For example, if competing
in 10 to 12 years your helper/s must not be any older than 12 years of age.
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8. Showmanship and Demonstration
This event is designed to allow the Competitor(s) to show off their talents within the
prescribed time limit of four (4) minutes. You are not limited to how many people you wish
to use but they must be within the ring area. The use of weapons, props and music is
allowed. The event can be of a serious or comical nature. Entertainment and skill level are
taken into account when scoring this event.
This is a team event and will be judged as a combine team effort. A Competitor may use
other students/Competitors which may be older or younger within their category. For
example, an under 12 year Division Competitor must be 12 years or younger but any
assistance students or other Competitors assisting can be of any age.
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9. Non-Rating Events
These events can vary from tournament or promoter some of the events that are currently
in use in various circuits around Australia are team sparring; board breaking,
dual/synchronized Kata. These events generally do not attract rating points and are trophy
events only.
Please refer to Appendix A for a list of possible additional rules for these events.
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10. Team Sparring Rules
A team should consist of three (3) fighters.
Weight divisions are as follows:
 Lightweight - 74.5 kilos and lighter (164 pounds)

 Middleweight - 75 kilos to 81.8 kilos (165-180 pounds)
 Heavyweight - 82.2 kilos and heavier (181 pounds and heavier)
 Open Weight – all fighters can compete against each other.
10.1 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.
10.2 Team Sparring Rules

ISKA Point Sparring rules apply to this Division, except in the Open Division where Black Belt
point sparring rules apply
 Total points for each match will be added together to give the final team score
 Each match will be one (1) minute per round for under 18 years and one (1) minute
30 seconds per round for over 18 years
 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.
Points of the disqualified fighter will be awarded to the opposing team in the event of a
disqualification. Intentional and unintentional disqualification 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.
10.4 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.
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10.5 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.
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11. Contact Sparring
11.1 Winning of a Bout

Can be done 4 ways:
1. By knockout either fully or technical (after 10 count has been applied)

2. By the fighter who dominated the bout with superior scoring techniques
3. By disqualification
4. A fight may be stopped if the competitor is unable to fight or defend themselves and
also if the other competitor shows total athletic superiority. The centre referee
decides who the winner is
11.2 Equipment
Sparring equipment must consist of, headgear, foam gloves with fingers covered, foam
booties heel and toes covered, mouthguard, groin guard (optional for females), chest guard
(females only, optional), other padding such as shin guards and forearm protectors are
optional.
The following equipment is not acceptable and is prohibited; cloth protectors, all boxing
gloves, open hand gloves which do not cover all fingers, padded bag gloves, protectors
deemed by the Centre Referee as being insufficiently padded, strapping of the hands and
feet.
11.3 Match Times

 Under 18 years - one and a half minutes (1min 30sec)
 Over 18 years - two minutes (2 min)
11.4 Target Areas
11.4.1 Legal Target Areas for Leg Techniques:

Legal target areas for all karate type kicks include the head (front, sides, top), body (chest,
stomach, ribs, and flanks) and foot strikes outer thigh kicks allowed only. All Competitors
must agree before the start of the match that thigh kicks will be allowed. In the event all
Competitors do not agree, thigh kicks will not be allowed.
11.4.2 Legal Target Areas for Hand Techniques:

Legal target areas for hand techniques on the body include the chest, stomach, ribs, and
flanks.
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11.4.3 Non-Target Areas Leg Techniques:
Non-target areas for leg techniques include the back of head, the throat, the arms, the back
including the spine and kidneys and anywhere below the hips such as the groin, buttocks,
legs, thighs, shins and feet.
11.4.4 Non-Target Areas Hand Techniques:

Non-target areas for hand techniques include anywhere above the shoulders such as the
throat, face, head; the collar bones, arms and anywhere below the hips such as the groin,
buttocks, legs, thighs, shins, feet and the back which includes the spine and kidneys.
11.4.5 Illegal Techniques:

Illegal techniques include, head butts, hair pulls, bites scratches, elbows, knees, eye attacks
of any kind, takedowns, 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.
11.5 Warnings and Disqualifications

A warning may be given on any breach of the rules.
 Three fouls amounts to a disqualification. (1 foul, 2 foul, 3 foul automatic

disqualified)
 Deliberate striking to an illegal target will amount to two fouls or disqualification
 A Corner Judge cannot issue a foul but can inform the Centre Referee of what they
saw
11.6 Match Decisions

Match decisions can result from the following,
 Legal knockout automatic winner (after 10 count is applied)

 If time is called and no one is the clear winner the Centre Referee will call for Judges
to make a decision. This is done by the Corner Judges turning away from the ring and
when called, for them to raise the coloured flag of the person whom they declare
has won the match
 In the event of a tie the Centre Referee can either make a decision and declare a
winner or extend the fight for either 30 seconds for fighters under the age of 18
years and 1 minute for over 18 years
 Judges when making their decisions should raise their flag straight up on the call, or
if they think it was draw cross the flags over their head
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12. Clash Sparring
12.1 General Rules

 Each match is ninety (90) seconds running-time, total points
 Points may be scored by attacking and/or by countering an opponent’s attack
 Each attack (and/or counter) is limited to a total of three (3) techniques per clash
plus one (1) ‘disengaging’ strike.(Full explanation of what defines “three techniques”
and a “disengaging” strike provided below in the complete rules)
 Competitors may score multiple points during each clash for successful attacks
and/or counter strikes and combinations.
 Every kick that scores, earns two-points. Every hand strike that scores, earns one
point.
Clash Example 1: “Fighter A” attacks, scoring* cleanly with his lead leg roundhouse kick
followed immediately by a back fist / reverse-punch combination that also scores.* “Fighter
B” manages to counter by scoring* cleanly with his own reverse punch before “Fighter A”
can disengage. This clash will yield a 4-1 point advantage for “Fighter A”.
Clash Example 2: “Fighter A” attacks and scores* with a back fist. Before “Fighter A” can
disengage (move out of range), “Fighter B” scores* with a reverse punch counter and
follows with a back leg round house kick that scores* to the head as “Fighter A” retreats.
This clash will yield a 3-1advantage for “Fighter B”.
*‘SCORING’ occurs only with the allowable amount of focused touch contact (the legal
amount of contact allowed to certain scoring areas) and focused control (an amount of
force that would have incapacitated the opponent, at least momentarily, if the technique
had not been controlled).
Competitors are expected to separate (break) after each clash and then continue sparring
(re-engage). Failure to separate will result in having the Centre Referee “break” the fighters
and may warrant penalization or disqualification.
Rules regarding uniform, contact and legal targets are identical to those for Point Sparring.
Rules regarding legal techniques and penalties are identical to those for Point Sparring with
the following general exceptions,
 Hook Punches and Uppercuts are prohibited.

 Falling down will result in your opponent being awarded one point
 Leaving the ring will result in your opponent being awarded one point
 Clinching or stalling of any kinds will result in your opponent being awarded points
Two judges and one Centre Referee will officiate each match.
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The Centre Referee will control the action and be the arbiter of safety and fairness.
Judges will keep a record of scoring strikes on hand held devices that will help specify their
vote for a winner at the conclusion of each match.
A draw decision by the two Judges will be decided by a “sudden victory extension” decided
by the first scoring clash.
12.2 Competitor
Each Competitor must present themselves to the Centre Referee suitably attired with
proper uniform and equipment and physically prepared to compete. If they are not
prepared to compete as deemed by the Centre Referee, the Competitor may be penalized
for delay of time.
12.3 Delay of Start-Time Penalty

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 3 penalty points the
offending Competitor will be disqualified.
12.4 Rank Rules

A Competitor must compete at the highest belt level they have earned in the martial arts. A
Competitor can never compete in a Division of which they have not earned that rank. Once
a Competitor competes as a black belt legally, they must always compete as a black belt. A
Competitor can never compete in a lower belt division than the level of belt they have
earned in the Martial Arts.
12.5 Proof of Age Rule

All Competitors must have a proof of age document. If there is a legitimate reason to
question a Competitor’s age, they must present a proof of age (birth certificate, driver’s
license, or other acceptable documents) to prove their age.
12.6 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
30thJune of the current competition year is their legal competition age for that year. They
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can compete all year 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 if they chose.
12.7 Uniform
karate (Kung Fu, Tae Kwon Do, etc.) uniform in a good state of repair. The appropriate
colour belt or sash must be worn in competition. All sparring uniforms must have sleeves
that reach at least to the middle of the forearm. No T-shirts, sweats, tank tops or
unapproved shoes are allowed in the sparring divisions (see sparring foot pads).
12.8 Competitor Responsibilities

It is the responsibility of the Competitor to know the rules and be ready for competition
when called to do so. They must be suitably attired, weighed-in and at the appropriate ring
when competition begins. Three calls will be made for competition at ringside. If the
Competitor is not at their ring ready to compete when competition begins, they will not be
able to compete (see delay of time rule). If a Competitor leaves the ring after the
competition begins and is not present when their name is called to compete, their name will
be called three times at ringside. If they are still not present to compete, they will be
disqualified (see delay of time rule).
12.9 Required and Recommended Safety Equipment

ISKA approved headgear; hand and footpads, mouthpieces, groin cups (for male
Competitors only) and chest guards (for all Competitors 17 year old and younger) are
mandatory for all Competitors in sparring divisions. The Competitor’s equipment will be
checked and if it is deemed unsafe, he/she will be asked to change the equipment before
he/she can compete.
Hand Pads: A soft padded surface must cover the fingers, wrist and any striking surface of
the hand.
Foot Pads: A soft padded surface must cover the instep, sides, toes, ankle and back of the
heel of the foot. The bottom of the foot does not have to be padded. (ISKA has approved
the use of “Ringstar sparring shoes in all sparring divisions, with the same stipulations
placed on other approved sparring gear.)
Head Gear: The front, sides and back of the head must be covered by a soft padded surface.
In addition to the head hear, a face shield is required for all Competitors 17 yrs. & under.
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Chest Guard: All 17 and younger Competitors must wear an approved chest protector in
sparring. The chest guard must sufficiently cover the abdomen and upper chest such that
the sternum is completely protected. Rib guards that cover only the abdomen area are not
approved chest guards. Insufficiently padded gloves, foot, chest and head hear 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. The tournament’s official rules Arbitrator
ultimately determines the approval or denial of the equipment. A properly fitted
mouthpiece is required. Shin pads, elbow pads and rib/chest guards are highly
recommended for additional safety to all sparring Competitors in all divisions.
12.10 Officials
Each ring should have a Centre Referee, two Judges, and a Timekeeper.
Centre Referees: The Centre Referee is the most experienced official in the ring and is
thoroughly versed on the rules and order of competition. 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, makes all decisions regarding the clash determinations, makes penalty decisions,
administrates the voting of the other judges, communicates clearly with all officials,
Competitors and coaches, and announces the winner of each match. The Centre Referee has
the power to issue cautions, warnings, award penalties or issue disqualifications. Centre
Referees have the power to issue time-outs. A Competitor can ask for a time-out, but it is
the determination of the Centre Referee to issue one.
Judges: The judges determine and tally points, and vote for a winner.
Timekeeper: The timekeeper starts time at the command of the Centre Referee and
announces when 90 seconds of “running time” has elapsed (at the 75 second mark, the time
keeper will shout out “FIFTEEN SECONDS”). The timekeeper will also monitor and adjust the
“running time” according to the refereed specified “timeouts”.
12.11 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
Centre Referee know they believe there has been an infraction of the rules or a mistake has
been made. The Centre Referee will summon the Arbitrator to the ring (if the Centre
Referee cannot properly settle the protest to the players satisfaction) to render a decision.
All protests must be made in an orderly, proper and sportsmanlike manner. All protests
must be made immediately. Protests are not allowed once competition has resumed (after
the fact protest). A Competitor may be penalised or even disqualified if they protest
improperly or without proper cause.
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12.12 Late Entries
Once a Division has the first divisional match has started) no Competitor/s can be added to
that Division.
12.13 The Ring

The sizes of the sparring adult black belt rings are 7x7 ISKA mat size (each mat is one metre
by one metre). Starting lines should be marked approximately six feet apart in the middle of
the ring. Additionally, each ring should be posted with a ring number visible to Competitors,
officials, and medical personnel from across the floor. All youth and under black belt adult
rings are 6x6 ISKA mat size (each mat is one metre by one metre).
12.14 Weighing-in
It is mandatory for all adult sparring Competitors who are in weighed divisions, to weigh in
before competition. Only one official weigh-in is required. All Competitors must compete in
their weight Division. A Competitor cannot compete up or down in another weight division
for which they have not made the proper weight. It is the responsibility of the tournament
personnel to weigh and properly record the Competitor’s weight. If a Competitor is caught
falsifying their weight, they will be disqualified.
12.15 Order of Competition

Once the final call for the sparring division are made at ringside and the seeds have been
taken out (if seeding is required) the Division is ready to be set up. The competition cards
should be collected and counted (if competition cards are not used, count the Competitors)
to see if byes are needed. If byes are needed, they will be picked randomly (See bye chart to
see how many byes are needed). Matches should always be selected by random but certain
allowances may be given to Competitors from the same school or team that is matched up
in the first round of competition. They may be separated randomly from each other in the
first round if possible. (Competitors cannot pick whom they want or do not want to spar.)
In the youth division, the Competitors should be lined up by height (smallest to the tallest)
and split into tall and short divisions if required or offered. Determining tall and short
divisions is for safety reasons, not just to split the division equally. A true break in size
should be found to determine the taller Competitors from the shorter Competitors. Once
the tall and short divisions are determined by height, determine who spars whom by
random draw. Consideration should be given to Competitors who are from the same school
or team that have been drawn to spar each other in the first round.
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Note on Age Divisions: Adult sparring Competitors 30 and older have the option to compete
down one age Division. For example, a 30 year old Competitor can compete in the 18-29
years Divisions, a 40 year old Competitor can compete in the 30-39 Division etc. A
Competitor cannot compete up in an age division.
12.16 Length of Match

Ninety (90) seconds running-time, at the 75 second mark, the time keeper will shout out
“FIFTEEN SECONDS”. If a match is tied at the end of ninety (90) seconds, sudden victory
(first clash) overtime period will determine the match.
12.17 Point Values and Winner Determination

All legal hand techniques that score will be awarded one (1) point. All legal kicking
techniques that score will be awarded two (2) points. All fouls as determined by the Centre
Referee shall result in one (1) penalty point being awarded to the fouling Competitor’s
opponent. The judges will evaluate the point scoring (and penalty points) of each
Competitor and track them on hand held devices in order to help determine the vote for a
winner.
12.17.1 What is a “Scoring Technique”?

A “scoring technique” occurs when a legal sport martial arts technique is scored by a
Competitor in-bounds and up-right (not considered down) without time being called that
strikes his opponent with the allowable amount of focused touch contact and focused
control to a legal target area.
Focused Touch Contact: Is the legal amount of contact allowed to certain scoring areas.
Focused Control: Is an amount of controlled force that would have incapacitated the
opponent at least momentarily if the technique had not been controlled.
12.17.2 What is a “Scoring Combination”?

A “scoring combination” occurs when two or three legal sport martial arts techniques (as
defined above) are scored in the sequence of an attack or counter within a clash. A point or
points are awarded for each scoring technique that occurs in the combination.
12.17.3 Counter-Scoring:
Since Clash Sparring places a premium on the total number of scoring techniques rather
than who scores first, all legal scoring strikes are credited. It is each Competitor’s
responsibility to defend counter-strikes that occur in response to their own attack the same
way they we need to defend their opponent’s attack.
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12.17.4 “Combination Attacks” and “Combination Counters”:
Combination attacks and combination counters are limited to three techniques. Clash
Sparring does not allow Competitors to stand in front of each other and “trade shots”
indefinitely. The skill of Clash Sparring is best defined as the ability to “score effectively with
combination strikes and escape untouched”. Combination attacks and counters are strictly
limited to three (3) techniques as defined below.
Kicks: Competitors may kick as many times and at as many different targets as they choose
within the time and physical limit of a single leg lift. Multiple kicks that occur while a foot
remains in the air shall be considered “one technique”. Once the kicking foot touches the
ground, if another kick is launched (even with the same foot) it will be considered a second
technique (maximum of three techniques per combination/clash)
Lead-Hand Strikes: If executed in “quick sequence”, Competitors may strike twice in a row
with the same lead-hand technique and it will be considered “one technique” (example:
bridging the gap with double back-fist strike). Any break in rhythm or timing, or change in
technique will result in each strike being considered separately.
Rear-Hand Strikes: All rear hand strikes will count as a single strike within the three
technique limit.
Disengaging Technique: Competitors are allowed a single disengaging strike that is not
considered part of the three (3) technique maximum for each clash combination. This strike
must be executed as the Competitor is creating space after a clash (disengaging) and be
followed by the fighter continuing their disengagement (moving out of range).
LEGAL EXAMPLE 1: Fighter A attacks with jab / reverse punch / back leg double round house
kick Fighter B attempts to counter with reverse punch Fighter A steps back and (beginning
to disengage) defends with side-kick and continues to disengage to end the clash.
LEGAL EXAMPLE 2: Fighter A attacks with front leg round kick / backfist / ridge hand and
then (beginning to disengage) steps back with a lead leg hook kick and continues to
disengage to end the clash.
Note: Since Clash Sparring rewards successful attacking and successful countering equally
the allowance for a legal Disengaging Technique (beyond the three-technique maximum)
provides the attacker with an effective defensive measure beyond merely blocking or
retreating.
12.18 Target Areas
12.18.1 Legal Target Areas:

Entire head and face area, ribs, chest, abdomen, collarbone and kidneys.
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12.18.2 Illegal Target Areas:
The spine, back of neck, throat, sides of the neck, groin, legs, knees and back.
12.18.3 Non-Target Areas:

Hips, shoulders, buttocks, arms, and feet.
12.18.4 Legal Techniques:

Legal techniques are all controlled sport karate techniques, except those listed as illegal.
12.18.5 Illegal Techniques:

Hook punches, Uppercuts, Head butts, hair pulls, bites, scratches, elbows, knees, eye attacks
of any kind, take downs on a hard surface floor, ground sparring on a hard surface, any
stomps or kicks to the head of a downed Competitor, slapping, grabbing for more than one
second (as defined below), uncontrolled blind techniques, any uncontrolled throws,
takedowns or sweeps and any other uncontrolled dangerous techniques that are deemed
unsafe in sport karate.
12.19 Grabbing
A Competitor may grab the uniform top of their opponent in an attempt to score with a
sport karate technique for only one (1) second, after which time they must release the
uniform. Likewise, the uniform pants may be grabbed for one (1) second to an upright
opponent in an attempt to score.
12.20 Sweeps, Takedowns, Grabs and Ground Sparring

Sweeps not to take down an opponent but only to obstruct the balance so as to follow up
with a sport karate technique can only be executed to the back of the front leg at mid-calf or
below. A sweep must be deemed a proper sweep and not a kick, to be legal. Controlled
Takedowns and sweeps that are meant to take down an opponent are allowed only a
declared approved padded surface. A point or points are awarded only when the legal
sweep or takedown is followed up effectively legally and immediately with appropriate
scoring sport karate techniques. Only hand techniques or a single carefully controlled kick or
stomp to the body is allowed on a downed Competitor. 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 Competitor. Down sparring must be declared by the proper
tournament officials before being allowed, padded surface or not.
Light Touch Contact: Means there is no penetration or visible movement of the Competitor
because of the contact. Light touch is required to all legal target areas in all black belt
sparring divisions. The face shield of a headgear along with the headgear is a legal target
area.
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Moderate Touch Contact: Means slight penetration or slight target movement. Moderate
touch contact may be made to all legal target areas except the headgear, face shield and
face.
12.21 Breaking
Competitors must “break”, step back, or disengage from their opponent after each clash.
When “breaking” the Competitors must “step back” or disengage to a distance outside of
which they can’t touch each other without moving their feet. Competitors are responsible
for self-regulating the break rather than waiting for the Centre Referee to take control,
requiring the Centre Referee to take control of the breaks will likely lead to penalization.
Note: Clash Sparring is about scoring and not being scored on, so the sparring strategy
needs to be one of “engaging and disengaging”.
12.22 Warnings and Penalties

One and only one warning is allowed for breaking the rules before a penalty point is
awarded. After the first warning is given, a penalty point is awarded for each and every rules
violation. If the severity of the first rules violation is deemed by the Centre Referee to be too
severe, a penalty point can be issued immediately and the first warning will be forfeited.
12.22.1 Other Penalty Rules:

If, in the opinion of the Centre Referee and/or the medical personnel, a Competitor cannot
continue because of an injury caused by an illegal penalised attack executed by a
Competitor, the offending Competitor shall be automatically disqualified.
12.22.2 Other Cause for Penalisation:

Exceeding the maximum allowable number of techniques (three) per clash, consistently
executing more than one “disengaging techniques, failing to “break” or create space
between the Competitors after each clash, attacking illegal and non-target areas, using
illegal techniques, running out of the ring to avoid competing, falling to the floor to avoid
competing, continuing after being ordered to stop, excessive stalling, blind, negligent or
reckless attacks, uncontrolled techniques, showing unsportsmanlike behaviour by the
Competitor, their coaches, friends, etc., any excessive contact, and delay of time are just
some examples of possible penalisation.
The Centre Referee may at their discretion disqualify a Competitor for fouling or
unsportsmanlike behaviour.
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12.23.1Non-Competing Penalty:
If the Centre Referee considers that the Competitors are not making an obvious attempt to
compete in the true spirit of competition, both Competitors will be warned and if it
continues, will be disqualified.
12.23.2 Wrong Division:

If any Competitor competes in a Division they are not qualified to compete in due to age,
weight, rank, gender, style, etc. they will be disqualified.
12.24 Coaching
The luxury of having a coach is something that most Competitors do not have access to.
Therefore, it sometimes can become an unfair advantage over a Competitor who does not
have a coach. The rules are made and enforced so no one Competitor has an advantage or
disadvantage over another Competitor. Therefore, coaching is allowed but only under the
following guidelines:
 Never, at any time, can a coach enter the ring without the Centre Referee’s
permission
 No abusive, violent, unsportsmanlike or overzealous coaching
 Coaches cannot ask for a time out unless they are protesting a rules violation (only
the Competitor may ask for a time out)
 Coaches can never, at any time, interfere with the proper running of the ring or the
decisions of the judges.
A Coach is defined as anyone who is trying to help one Competitor in anyway. A coach could
be but is not limited to a friend, parent, team-mate, or an official coach. The Centre Referee
can issue a warning to a Competitor for each time their coach is interfering with a match or
disrupting fair play between contestants. The Centre Referee can ask for a disqualification
of a contest but requires a majority vote of all judges.
12.25 Out-of-Bounds
A Competitor is out-of-bounds as soon as they have at least one foot touching inside or on
the boundary line. An out of bounds Competitor cannot score a point while out of bounds.
An inbounds Competitor can score on an out of bounds Competitor if the Centre Referee
has not called ‘stop’.
12.26 Fairness Rule

If a question arises that is not completely covered by this rule book, the official rules
Arbitrator may at their discretion, overrule, modify or change a delineated rule if they
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believe that enforcing such a rule would result in an inherent unfair outcome to a
Competitor. However, the rules Arbitrator should only overrule modify or change a
delineated rule in extreme cases.
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13. Sumo Rules
13.1 General Rules

 A bout is equal to one (1) point
 Bouts for Competitors six years and under will be one (1) minute long
 Bouts for Competitors seven years and older will be one and half (1½ ) minutes long
 Competitor/s who is ahead after best of three (3) scoring bouts or whoever is ahead
when time permits, will be declared the winner
 Where weight categories are required ensure your correct weight is recorded within
the closet kilo rounded up on your entry form. For example, if you are 45.6kg
recorded your weight on your form as 46kg not 45.6kg as 46kg will be to the closet
kilo
 You may also on the day of the tournament be requiring to be weighed by the
officials, before you can compete
 Karate Kung Fu or Taekwondo Gi with long sleeves must be worn for this event no
short sleeves, T shirts or similar are not allow
13.2 Starting Position

Both Competitors must start by doing the Sumo stomp and walking up to each other. They
must face each other and place both arms on their opponents opposite shoulders. Bouts
can only commence when the Centre Referee calls start. Bouts can only finish when the
Centre Referee calls stop. The Centre Referee is the only one who can start or stop bouts
and issue warnings.
13.3 Legal Scoring Techniques

You can pull your fellow Competitor out of the ring as long as both hands are on the
opposing Competitor. Both feet of your opponent must be out to score a point. You can
pull your opponent down by the shoulders or arms. A point will be scored where any part of
your opponents body touch the mat, except their feet.

 No throwing of any type allowed
 No Pinching of the opponent’s body is allowed. Any Competitor caught pitching will
be disqualified
 No talking back to the Centre Referee or disputing his/her final call
 No charging at your opponent at any time
 No Lifting of the leg of any type to an opponent
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 No Sweeping of the legs allowed
13.5 Equipment Required

Headgear, mouth guard and full Martial Arts Uniform must be worn; Karate, Kung Fu or
Taekwondo Gi with long sleeves (No Exceptions).
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14. Sword Combat Rules
14.1 Starting Position

 All bouts are 1 minute for all ages
 First to 5 points or whoever is ahead when time permits, will be declare the winner
 Bouts can only commence when the Centre Referee calls start
 Bouts can only finish when the Centre Referee calls stop
 The Centre Referee is the only one who can start or stop bouts and issue warnings
14.2 Scoring Points

 Hit to the head scores two (2) points
 All other parts of the body score one point, except you cannot score to the fingers
and up to the wrist area. (Note: From above the wrist area is classified as body part)
14.3 Legal Scoring Techniques

You must keep the sword lower than your eye level when swinging or attacking
youropponent. Stabbing type swings can be done to the stomach area only.

You cannot swing the sword back past eye level, as this is classed as a baseball swing. In the
event of two warnings this will lead to point over. No talking back to the Centre Referee or
disputing their final call. Control of the weapon at all times must be applied.
14.5 Equipment Required

Headgear, mouth guard and Full Martial Arts Uniform must be worn. Competitors must
supply their own equipment for this event.
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15. Team Synchronise Form
15.1 General Rules

A team synchronized form comprises of 2 – 5 members. There is a four (4) minute
maximum time limit. Time starts when the first team member steps into the competition
ring and ends when the team is obviously finished in the opinion of the Centre Official.
Empty Hand Forms, Weapons Forms or combinations of both are legal. All the technical
Martial Arts skills are graded for execution, presentation and difficulty.
Synchronize Team Form will be graded on how well a team is working in a cooperative joint
effort with the majority of techniques being executed together, at the same time, in unison
and/or in a domino sequence effect.
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16. Tricking
16.1 General Rules

All tricks regardless of discipline will be categorised into Power Moves or Combos
categories.
Power Moves: Any single or double trick technique. Can be a set up and trick, or two tricks.
Combo: Any three (3) techniques/tricks or more.
The first Competitor of each round will start by performing either a Power Move or Combo.
The second Competitor must match the category (Power Move or Combo) by performing a
trick in the same category for their turn. This will allow the Judges to compare power moves
to power moves and combos to combos.
There are no limits. Tricks from all disciplines are allowed including: martial arts, dance,
break-dance, acrobatics, gymnastics, parkour, free running, etc. No props will be allowed.
16.2 Rounds
A coin will be tossed tochoose who goes first. The winner of the toss chooses to go first or
second.
Competitors get one turn per round and are allowed one re-do for any missed trick or
combo. Competitors will alternate going first for each round. One (1) point will be awarded
to the winner of each round.The first Competitor to two (2) points wins the battle and
moves up to the next battle
16.3 Judging
Battlers will be judged on difficulty, creativity, crowd response, cleanliness, style and battle
mentality (exuberance and level of entertainment expressed in a personal character). A
person doesn’t win just by doing the coolest trick.
Judges will point to who they think won at the end of each round. A person must win two
(2) rounds in order to be the overall winner.
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17. Breaking Championship Divisions
17.1 Power Concrete

Light weight: 89 kilos and under (199 lbs)
Heavy weight: 90kilos and over (200 lbs)
Competitors will break concrete patio slabs with one downward hand or arm strike.
17.1.1 Scoring Criteria:

Scoring will be based on the number of slabs broken on the first and only strike.
17.1.2 Additional Rules:

 There is a ten (10) minute time limit from the time the first team member steps on
the stage. The Competitors will receive three warnings indicating elapsed time. The
first warning will be given at four (4) minutes. The second warning will be given at
eight (8) minutes. The third warning will be given at nine (9) minutes. There will be
an automatic disqualification if the break has not been executed in the allotted time.
 Setup and immediate clean up must be provided by Competitor and assistants
 Any hand or arm technique may be used. Strikes must be delivered in a downward
motion.
 Standardized materials consist of 2 x 8 x 16 (5.08 cm x 20.32 cm x 40.64 cm) concrete
slabs. Slabs must be stacked lying horizontally in a vertical column supported equally
oneach end.
 Ties will be broken by determining which Competitor broke the largest percentage of
slabs that were set up (i.e. a Competitor who breaks 12 of 13 would win over a
Competitor who broke 12 of 15).
 0.635 cm (1/4 inch) spacers will be provided.
17.2 Creative
Competitors will perform a creative display of breaking skills executed in multiple directions
and may use multiple types of materials, for example; wood, frozen water (ice), concrete.

The Creative Breaking Division will be judged on the following five criteria points,
1. Creativity: Were the breaks unique in design and presented in a creative or innovative
Judges will be looking for each Competitor to bring their own unique signature breaks to
their Creative routine. They will evaluate and score creativity based on creative originality.
2. Variety: Did the breaking demonstration feature a variety of techniques, directions,

materials, and methods.
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3. Degree of Difficulty: Within the demonstration, how difficult was each break or breaking
sequence.
4. Realism: Was the demonstration performed with a rhythm and flow that is dynamic and
exciting
5. Quantity: This evaluates the volume of materials broken with each strike, or during the
demonstration as a whole.
Note: The combined qualities of creativity, fluidity, variety, degree of difficulty and realism
are weighed more heavily than quantity in evaluating a Creative Breaking performance.
Missed breaks should lead to scoring deductions but only in an inverse relation to the
difficulty of the break that was attempted. Missed breaks that are then broken immediately
with a fluid follow up breaking strike should not cause as large a deduction.

 Setup and immediate clean up must be provided by the Competitor and their
assistants
 There will be a total of twelve (12) minutes for set up, break, and clean up
 Time begins from the moment the 1st team member steps on stage
 There is a grace period of sixty (60) seconds between breakers. After the sixty(60)
seconds grace period has passed time will begin whether the next breaker has begun
setting up or not
 The actual breaking demonstration will last no longer than 3 minutes and will feature
nomore than four (4) breaking stations. Each breaking station will consist of no more
than two (2) breaks. The exception to this is if, stations that demonstrate the quick
breaking of boards in multiple directions, using live holders or pre-constructed
holding apparatus (meaning it already has the boards on it and merely needs to be
put in place) may consist of no more than four (4)breaks. The breaker is allowed time
between breaks which reflects the degree of difficulty
 A missed or incomplete break followed by another attempt at the same break shall
countas only one break
 Two or more breaking strikes executed simultaneously shall count as only one break
 A station consists of two (2) breaks. Those two (2) breaks can be two (2) different
materials. Deductions will accrue at 0.1 of a point for every station over the allotted
amount
 Deductions will accrue at 0.1 of a point per fifteen (15) seconds over the three (3)
minute or twelve (12) minute time limits
 Total point deduction will come off of total score from the seven (7) Judges
 Breaking material that leaves the stage in a dangerous fashion may be grounds for
penalisation or disqualification. The decision to disqualify a Competitor will be made
by the onsite ISKA Centre/Head Referee. Factors such as velocity and distance the
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material travels off the stage will be considered as well as whether or not anyone is
struck by materials leaving stage.
 Competitors must provide all breaking materials or purchase breaking materials
from thePromoter consisting of 2.54cm x 30.48cm x 30.48cm (1 x 10 x 12 inch) pine
boards or 5.08cm x 20.32cm x 40.64cm (2 x 8x16inch) concrete slabs. Any materials
provided by the Competitor must be safe.No glass or fire permitted. No materials are
allowed that may potentially injure surrounding individuals.
17.3 Combat Wood Breaking

Competitors will demonstrate breaking skills in a performance designed to simulate a fight
against multiple opponents. Competitors shall break single or multiple boards with varying
weapons in multiple directions for a period of not more than eight (8) seconds.

Scoring will be based on the number of boards broken before time expires.

 Once the Competitor steps on stage they have five (5) minutes to complete their set
up and break
 Competitors must execute at least one break with each hand and each foot and
those four (4) breaks must be executed in four (4) different directions at
approximately right angles
 After three (3) strikes with the same weapon (i.e. hand) the Competitor must change
weapons (i.e. foot) for at least one (1) strike before returning to the favoured
weapon
 Competitors must continue to break in multiple directions even after the initial four
(4) directions have been met
 Boards will be held in place by adult board holders
 All breaks will be executed at belt level or above
 Ties will be broken in favour of the Competitor that broke the highest percentage of
boards that they had held for them
17.4 Power Wood Kicks

Light weight: 89kilos and under (199 lbs.)
Heavy weight: 90kilos & over (200 lbs.)
The Competitor will provide a metal-framed, custom engineered unit designed to hold
boards to be broken with forward, sideways, or roundhouse kicking strikes.
54
Scoring will be based on the number of boards broken from a single strike.

 Strikes will be executed with the foot and delivered horizontally.
 The strikes allowed are front kick, round kick, side kick, hook kick or back kick. Any
foot-work or delivery method (i.e. skip-in, spinning, flying, etc.) may be used but are
limited to a singlestep before delivering the strike
 Each Competitor will be allowed up to two (2) breaking attempts
 The Competitors must decide immediately following their 1st attempt if they will
make a 2nd attempt. Once they step off of the breaking platform they may only
return to the stage in order to break a tie for first place
 If there is a tie for first place it will be broken by determining who broke the winning
number of boards on the earliest effort (1st or 2nd try)
 If there is still a tie it will be broken by determining who broke the largestpercentage
of the boards that they set up on the winning break (for example: breaking 8 boards
out of 9 set up would defeat breaking 8 boards out of 11 set up)
 If there is still a tie, first place will go to the tied Competitor who broke the largest
number of boards on both tries combined (If one of the Competitors did not take
both opportunities to break he will be allowed to return to the platform to complete
his break attempts)
17.5 Ultimate
This is an “overall” breaking championship division.
17.5.1 Scoring:
The winner will be determined by a cumulative score that reflects how each Competitor
placed in each of the four individual breaking events (power concrete, creative, power wood
and combat wood) “Ultimate” is considered an “absolute” division meaning that there is no
regard for weight division placement in Power wood or power concrete. For example, a
score between 8.5 and 9.5 will be given for each category. The following points provide a
guideline only.
 1st Place earns 25 points

 2nd Place earns 12 points
 3rd Place earns 7 points
 4th Place earns 3 points
The Competitor that compiles the most points over the four individual events will be
crowned “Ultimate Breaking Champion”.
55
 Qualifying for the Ultimate Breaking Championship requires that a Competitor
participate in each of the four breaking events
 Unbroken ties in individual breaking events will result in each tied Competitor
receiving identical ultimate breaking points as stated above
 A Competitor may be given a wildcard entry due to their experience and
entertainment value
 A Competitor can be ask to be ask not to perform a routine or have it re-position for
safety requirements
 A Competitor can be disqualified fromtheir event if material/s have flown outside
the demonstration area and has caused injury or any near miss injuries to person/s
such as, Spectators, Officials, Judges, team members
 WH&S Rules apply when performing breaking events. Please be aware of these as
they differ from state to state and country to country
 Time for set up and clean-up may change on the day. This may be due to safety
concerns or risk assessments.
 Promoter/s has the right to discuss changes on the day with officials and
Competitors to ensure the safety of all
 All Competitors must obey by the rules
 Competitors can discuss any other special techniques they may wish to perform, and
if Promoter’s gives them written approval to perform the routine and depending all
WH&S has being consider then this may be allowed to be perform on the day of the
competition.
 The Promoter has the right to supply any wood or concrete. Any ice breaks must be
supplied by the Competitor
 The Arbitrator has the right to stop an event if they deem the safety of all has not
been taken into consideration
 Competitors, officials and spectators must be aware also, in breaking events, there
are loose participles flying in the air during breaking of materials, and must stay well
clear of the area and view the competition from the spectator’s allocated area or for
the Centre Referee and officials from their allocated area
56
18. Appendix A
Supporting and/or Additional documents;
 Health and Safety Policy

 Alcohol and Drug Policy
 Child Protection Policy
 Insurance General Notice
 ISKA Koshiki Rules
 ISKA Amateur MMA Rules
 ISKA Pankration rules
 ISKA Titles Statement
 International Sports Karate Association Incorporated Constitution
All documents available via the www.iska.com.auwebsite
57
19. Appendix B
Judges and Referee’s Level Capacity

Level One Judge (entry level all grades): If senior brown/red belt or Black Belt may be used
to judge junior level patterns, weapons, breaking etc. so long as you are not a lower grade
than the competitor
Level One Referee (entry level all grades): If senior brown/red belt or Black may be used to
corner judge junior level patterns, weapons, breaking etc. so long as you are not a lower
grade than the competitor
Level Two Judge (Achievable after working proficiently for one (1) year): If senior
brown/red or Black Belt may be used to judge intermediate level patterns, weapons,
breaking etc. so long as you are not a lower grade than the competitor
Level Two Referee (Achievable after working proficiently for one (1) year): If senior
brown/red or Black Belt may be used to Centre Referee under guidance
Level Three Judge (Achievable after working proficiently for one (1) year): Black Belt level
only, may be used to judge seniorpatterns, weapons, breaking etc. the higher the skill factor
the more advanced judges should be used
Level Three Referee (Achievable after working proficiently for one (1) year): Black Belt
level only, may be used to act as a Centre Referee, in charge of that ring only
Level Four Judge (Achievable after working proficiently for two (2) year): Black Belt level
only, usually around senior 3rd and 4th degrees used to judge senior Divisions and Grand
Championships if available
Level Four Referee (Achievable after working proficiently for two (2) year): Black Belt level
only usually around senior 3rd and 4th degrees, may be used to act as a Ring Controller, i.e.
has the duty of controlling more than one ring allocates Referee’s/Judges to the ring. May
also be appointed State or area representative and may also be appointed to conduct entry
exams and certification
Level Five Judge/Referee (Must have at least two (2) years at Level 4): Must have superior
knowledge of the ISKA Rules, may be invited to act in the capacity of Arbitrator at any ISKA
sanctioned tournament. This is the final level for problem solving. When the Arbitrator
makes a ruling it is final.
58
Advice for Judges
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
 Make all decisions quickly and decisively in a confident manner - You must be able to
stand with conviction on each and every one of your calls
 Call only what you see clearly, not what you heard or thought you saw
 Give each match your full, focused attention - Don’t let yourself be distracted or
influenced into making a call by outside forces (i.e. other judges, fans, coaches, etc.)
 Stay out of the way of the Competitors so as not to interfere with the match
Decisions of a Point Call:
 Was it a legal, legitimate sport karate technique?

 Was it focused to a legal target area?
 Did it have the required legal touch control or focused control in the execution of the
techniques?
 Was the Competitor under control with proper balance in the execution of the
technique?
 Was the Competitor who scored in-bounds?
 Had the match been stopped before the technique scored?
 Was it a clash (each Competitor scoring at the same time)?
 Were there any rules violations immediately following the scoring technique (i.e. a
Competitor cannot receive a point and a penalty on the same call)?
 Was either Competitor on the ground when the point was scored?
 Was the match over before the point was scored?
Sparring 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.
Kata and Forms:
 Each form and weapon routine is judged on execution, presentation and difficulty
 Elements of execution include; Balance, power speed, stability, proper technique
formation, coordination, flexibility, stamina, timing, technique skill etc.
 Elements of the presentation include; Confidence, poise, determination,
commitment, imagery, respect, sportsmanship, realism, concentration, spirit,
showmanship, appearance, imagination, etc.
59
 Elements of difficulty include; Complexity of techniques, flexibility, balance,
versatility of techniques, stamina, length, ambidexterity, etc.
 When judging form and weapon Competitorsyou are actually comparing the
Competitors in the Division against each other to arrive at the best three (3) (eight
(8) in national competitions). This requires extreme attentiveness and memory of
details to make an accurate judging decision. To help you better arrive at a correct
decision the following three procedures are recommended:
o 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.
o Judge the first Competitor around or above the average score if you think
their routine was exceptional. This then gives you a benchmark to work
from. From here you will judge accordingly.
o Write down your scores and a quick reference note regarding the Competitor
beside each score. In Divisions with large number of Competitors, it becomes
difficult to remember each score that you have awarded. Remembering each
score becomes more difficult when using the hundredths scoring range.
Additionally, writing down your scores solves any disputes that could arise if
the scorekeeper inadvertently wrote down a judge’s score incorrectly.
The Use of Music:
In 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. Battery
operated or equivalent music systems must be supplied by the Competitor when competing
in any music events.
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, and presentation).
60
Weapons Divisions:
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 ofthe Competitor’s arms and hands. The absolute control of the weapon
at all times within the routine is essential. Releasing of weapons can lead to a
downgrade on score.
 The transition and combination of regular martial arts techniques with the weapon
(i.e. kicking, blocking, etc.)
 The percentage of weaponry movements to non-weaponry movements.The majority
of any weapon form should consist of the use of the weapon
 No reckless or careless use of the weapon that could harm the Competitor, another
Competitor, the judges or spectators.
Contact Sparring General Guidelines to Observe:
 Stay close to the competitors but do not get in their way but be there to stop the
fight if need be and to assist injured competitors. Remember your major priority is
the protection of the fighters
 If it is required you must get in between the competitors to stop the bout
 All head kicks get standing ten (10) counts; have medic’s check the competitor’s eyes
for dizziness etc.
 At no times allow hand techniques to the head even as fakes
 At the sign of blood STOP the match and call for medic’s to check the competitor
 If a fighter is obviously out classed by his opponent and is receiving a lot of
punishment stop the fight and declare the dominant competitor the winner
61
20. Appendix C
LEVELS 1 & 2 CENTRE JUDGE AND REFEREES UNIFORM
LEVELS 3, 4 & 5 CENTRE JUDGE AND REFEREES POLO TOP UNIFORM
62
CENTRE REFEREE AND JUDGES HAND SIGNALS
If a Competitor scores a two-point kick, the Officials should hold up two fingers, specifically
the index and middle fingers creating a “V” sign. If only one point is being called, the Judge
should raise an open hand. Refer to section 5.2.2.
Hands are placed over eyes if Judge did not see a point scored. Refer section 5.2.4.
Fists are placed together if Judge believes that both opponents scored at the same time,
clashed. Refer section 5.2.5.
63
A Judges will raise a fist if they believe a Competitor has committed a fowl.
A Judge will cross their wrists at waist level to indicate that they believe no point was
scored. Refer section 5.2.3.
64
COMPETITOR UNFORM
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 uniform. Refer to
section 2.7.
65
SPARRING AND SUMO SAFETY GEAR
ISKA approved headgear; hand and foot pads, mouthguards and groin cups (for male
Competitors only) are mandatory for all Competitors in all Sparring Divisions. Refer section
5 and section 11.2.
This headgear, mouth guard and full Martial Arts Uniform must be worn for all sumo events.
Refer section 13.5.
66
CLASH SPARRING SAFETY GEAR
All clash sparring competitors must wear full clash sparring safety gear as per section 12,
with particular reference to sections 12.7 and 12.9.
Please note:
Clash sparring head gear can be worn in all sparring events, sumo and sword combat.
67
SUMO
Sumo starting position. Refer to section 13.2.
68
SWORD COMBAT
Starting position for sword combat refer section 14.1.
69
Illegal technique cannot score with only one hand holding the sword. Refer section 14.4.
70
21. Definitions
Australian Head Referee–controls and oversees the ‘Rulebook’. Trains and approves ISKA
Referees and Officials. Deals with any complaints or concerns that have been escalated or
cannot be resolved by the Centre Referee or tournament Arbitrator.
Arbitrator - an independent person or body officially appointed to settle a dispute
Association - use in this document will refer to the International Sports Karate Association
Incorporated and its associated entities
Belt Level - reference to martial arts training skills reached
Black Belt - level of martial arts skill usually equated to highly experienced, refer to ‘Belt
Level’
Board - means the body managing ISKA and consisting of the Directors
Board of Directors - refer to ‘Board’
Centre Referee - Judge tasked with ultimate control of a ring at an event. Controls events
such as point sparring, contact sparring, clash sparring, sumo and sword combat.
Chairman - the elected Director in charge of the Board
Club– an organisation constituted to play matched in a particular sport
Coach - a person who trains athletes for games, a contest etc. and or to give instruction or
advice to in the capacity of a coach
Competitor(s) - a person(s) who takes part in a sporting contest
Competition - the activity or condition of striving to gain or win something by defeating or

establishing superiority over others
Competition area - designated space in which the competition is conducted
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
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
Director–amember of the board of ISKA
Division(s) - groupings of Competitors at an event
71
Event(s) - particular contests making up the ISKA calendar
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
Executive General Manager - the senior most executive leader of ISKA
Floor - See ‘Competition area’
Focused Touch - light, medium and excessive
Focused Control - no contact is allowed, but the technique must be focused close enough to
the ‘no touch’ target area
Governed - authority of the policies, actions and affairs of the Board
Instructor - a person who teaches
ISKA - International Sports Karate Association
Judgement Call–an observation ruling by a Referee or Judge that is necessarily subjective

because of the disputable nature of the play in question and one that may be appealed but
not protested, as opposed to a matter of official rule interpretation
Judges - appointed representative for decision making, approved to judge events such as
Kata, traditional weapons, self-defence, showmanship and extreme kata/weapons.
Mat(s) - refer to ‘Padded Surface(s)’
Medical personnel - designated attendant to deal with medical issues arising at the event
Oceanic Region - entire region between continental Asia and the Americas, thereby
including islands in the Pacific Rim such as the Japanese archipelago, Taiwan, Australia and
New Zealand
Official - appointed representative for decision making
Opponent– someone who competes with or opposes another in a contest
Padded Surface - 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. Concrete, wood, tile, terrazzo,
rubber or any other similar surfaces are not considered padded or soft
Point - 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
72
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
Promoter - key coordinator of an event
Referee – Assists the Centre Referee to control and judge events such as, point sparring,
contact sparring, clash sparring, sumo and sword combat.
Ring - see ‘Competition Area’
Rules - direct reference to this document
Rulebook- this document
Sanctioned - event approved by the ISKA Board
Scorekeeper - appointed representative for keeping a record of the Division(s) scores
Spectator - a person who watches an event and does not participate as a Competitor
Street Speed–the speed a moved would be performed in real life conditions
Synchronised Team –a group organised to function cooperatively in a joint effort working at

same time or rate, going together or happen at the same time, working in unison or the use
of techniques in a domino effect
Timekeeper - appointed representative for monitoring the duration of a match
Tolerance - the ability or willingness to tolerate the existence of opinions or behaviour that
one dislikes or disagrees with
Younger divisions - reference to Divisions containing Competitors under the age of 18 years
~ END OF DOCUMENT ~
73

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International Sports Karate Association

Sports Karate Rules

DOCUMENT CHANGE CONTROLS

Version Document Changes

V1: Jan 2016

V2: May 2016 Sections 6.4, 6.5 and 6.7

V3: July 2016 Sections 6.3 and 6.6

V4: July 2016 Sections 11.1 and Appendix B

2.1 No Tolerance Rule

 Any Competitor who conducts themselves in a way unbecoming of a Martial Artist

2.2 Competitor Preparation

2.3 Delay of Time Penalty

2.3.2 Non Sparring Events:

2.4 Rank Matching Rule

2.5 Proof of Age Rule

2.6 Legal Age Rule

2.7.2 Non-Sparring: i.e. Kata/form/patterns, traditional weapons

2.9 Late Entries

2.11 Order of Competition

2.12 Fairness Rule

2.13 Gender Segregation

3.3 Centre Referee

The Centre Referee has the following authority over;

3.4.1 Timeliness of Decision Making:

3.5 Number of Officials

3.6 Removal of Officials

5.1 Required & Recommended Safety Equipment

5.1.1 Hand Pads:

5.1.2 Foot Pads:

5.1.5 Inappropriate Equipment:

The strapping of hands is prohibited.

5.2.1 Judge Sees a Point:

5.2.2 Point Calling:

5.2.3 No Point Scored:

5.2.4 Did Not See:

5.3 Length of Match

5.4 Point Values and Winner Determination

All penalty points awarded will be one (1) point value.

5.4.1 The Winner is Determined by:

5.5 How Points are Awarded

5.5.1 What is a Point?

 Was it a legitimate and legal sport karate technique?

5.5.2 Legal Target Areas:

5.5.3 Illegal Target Areas:

5.5.4 Non-Target Areas:

5.6 Legal Techniques

5.7 Illegal Techniques

5.7.2 Sweeps, Takedowns, Grabs and Ground Fighting:

5.8.1 Light Touch Contact:

5.8.2 Moderate Touch Contact:

5.8.3 Excessive Contact:

The following requirements will determine if excess contact has occurred:

5.8.4 Touch Contact Requirements:

5.9.1 Warnings & Penalties:

5.9.2 Other Penalty Rules:

5.9.3 Causes of Penalising:

 Attacking illegal and non-target areas

5.10.1 Non-Competing Penalty:

5.10.2 Wrong Division:

5.10.3 Out of Bounds: