St. Vincent Taekwondo Federation – Equipment & Uniform Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish clear standards for all equipment and uniforms used in STF-sanctioned training, grading, competitions, and events. It ensures:

• Athlete safety through the use of approved, well-maintained gear.

• Consistency and professionalism in STF’s public presentation.

• Fair play by ensuring all athletes compete with standardized and certified equipment.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All STF members, including athletes, coaches, referees, and volunteers.

• All STF-affiliated dojangs and clubs.

• All STF-sanctioned training, competitions, demonstrations, and events.

3. General Equipment Standards

• All protective gear must be World Taekwondo (WT) approved or STF-approved.

• Equipment must be in good condition, free of cracks, tears, or other damage that may compromise safety.

• Sharing of personal protective equipment is discouraged for hygiene and safety reasons.

• Damaged or unsafe equipment must be removed from use immediately.

4. Required Training Equipment

For regular training sessions, all athletes must have:

• Headgear (WT-approved for sparring).

• Mouthguard (clear or white only).

• Chest protector (hogu) – properly fitted, WT-approved.

• Forearm and shin guards – firm foam or cloth type, WT-approved.

• Groin protector – mandatory for all athletes, worn inside the uniform.

• Gloves – WT-approved for sparring.

5. Competition Equipment

At STF-sanctioned competitions:

• All protective equipment must comply with current WT competition rules.

• Electronic scoring gear, if used, must be WT-certified and provided or approved by STF.

• No unapproved or modified equipment will be permitted.

• All athletes must undergo an equipment inspection before entering the ring.

6. Uniform Standards (Dobok)

• All STF athletes must wear a clean, white dobok approved by STF or WT.

• Black trim is allowed for black belt holders.

• The STF logo patch must be worn on the left chest of the dobok jacket.

• Dobok pants must be full length and free from visible tears or stains.

• The belt (ti) must be tied correctly with the ends even.

• No unauthorized markings, embroidery, or colors are permitted.

7. Coach & Referee Attire

• Coaches must wear STF-approved tracksuits or formal coaching attire.

• Referees must wear the official WT referee uniform unless STF specifies otherwise for a special event.

8. Branding & Logos

• Any sponsor logos on uniforms or equipment must be approved by STF before use.

• Logos must not promote prohibited products or services (e.g., alcohol, tobacco, adult content).

9. Safety & Hygiene Requirements

• All equipment must be cleaned regularly to prevent hygiene issues.

• Athletes must check their gear before each session or match.

• Protective gear must fit properly—oversized or undersized gear is not permitted.

10. Enforcement & Penalties

• STF officials and referees have the authority to refuse participation to any athlete whose equipment or uniform does not meet the policy.

• Repeated violations may result in: Written warnings. Suspension from training or competition. Loss of ranking or eligibility for selection.

11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to reflect updates to WT rules, STF branding, and equipment safety standards.