Competition Rules & Selection Policy

Athlete Development & Competition Framework

St. Vincent Taekwondo Federation – Competition Rules & Selection Policy

“Fairness, Transparency, and Excellence in Competition”

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish the rules and selection criteria for all athletes representing the St. Vincent Taekwondo Federation (STF) in local, regional, and international competitions. This policy ensures that selection processes are transparent, merit-based, and in alignment with World Taekwondo (WT) regulations, while also considering the unique sporting landscape and limited resources in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

It serves to:

Provide clear eligibility criteria for athletes.
Outline standards of performance and conduct for selection.
Ensure the fair allocation of resources for competition preparation.
Promote a culture of excellence and sportsmanship within STF.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

All STF-affiliated athletes seeking to compete under the STF banner.
All competitions sanctioned by STF, the Pan American Taekwondo Union, or World Taekwondo.
National, regional, and international events where athletes represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

3. Eligibility for Selection

To be considered for selection to represent STF at any sanctioned event, an athlete must:

Hold current and valid STF membership and license.
Be a citizen or permanent resident of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, or otherwise meet eligibility requirements set by the event’s governing body.
Have no outstanding disciplinary actions or sanctions in effect.
Hold a minimum grade relevant to the competition level (e.g., for international competition, at least 1st Dan black belt unless specified otherwise).
Be actively training in an STF-affiliated dojang.
Meet fitness and weight requirements for the event category.
Have complied with all anti-doping requirements under WADA guidelines.

4. Selection Criteria

Selection will be based on the following factors:

4.1 Performance Results

Consistent competition results in STF-sanctioned events.
Placements and performance in recent regional or international tournaments.

4.2 Technical Ability

Demonstrated mastery of techniques and strategies suitable for the target competition level.

4.3 Physical Readiness

Measured fitness assessments conducted by STF-appointed trainers.

4.4 Commitment to Training

Attendance at mandatory training camps and sessions.
Demonstrated dedication to skill improvement.

4.5 Sportsmanship and Conduct

Respect for referees, officials, opponents, and teammates.
Adherence to STF’s Code of Conduct and Safe Sport policies.

5. Selection Process

Announcement of Selection Period – STF will publish the selection timeline and criteria at least 90 days before the target event.
Athlete Nomination – Coaches submit nominations for eligible athletes to the STF Selection Committee.
Evaluation – The Selection Committee reviews athlete performance, training records, and conduct history.
Selection Trials (if applicable) – STF may hold formal trials to determine the best-qualified athletes.
Provisional Team List – Announced by the STF Board, subject to final confirmation.
Final Team Approval – Confirmed no later than 30 days before the event.

6. Athlete Commitments Upon Selection

Athletes selected to represent STF must:

Attend all mandatory team training camps.
Comply with STF’s National Team Code of Conduct.
Participate in media, community, and sponsor-related activities as requested.
Maintain fitness, discipline, and professional behavior throughout the preparation period and event.
Cover any self-funded costs as outlined by STF, unless otherwise supported through sponsorship or grants.

7. Removal from Team

An athlete may be removed from the team if they:

Fail to maintain training or fitness standards.
Breach STF’s Code of Conduct, Safe Sport, or Anti-Doping policies.
Sustain an injury or medical condition that prevents safe competition (as determined by an STF-approved medical professional).
Engage in behavior detrimental to STF’s reputation or the integrity of the sport.

8. Appeals

Athletes who are not selected, or who are removed from the team, have the right to appeal within 7 days of notification. Appeals must:

Be submitted in writing to the STF Secretary.
Clearly outline the grounds for appeal.
Include supporting evidence.

The STF Appeals Panel will review and make a final decision within 14 days. The decision is binding.

9. Resource Allocation & Support

Given the limited sporting resources in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, STF will prioritize:

Targeted investment in athletes with the highest medal potential.
Shared travel and accommodation arrangements to reduce costs.
Partnerships with regional training centers to access high-quality sparring partners and facilities.

10. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed every two years or sooner if required by changes in World Taekwondo regulations or national sport policies.