Grading & Promotion Policy

Athlete Development & Competition Framework

St. Vincent Taekwondo Federation (STF)

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide a clear, fair, and transparent system for grading and promotion within the St. Vincent Taekwondo Federation (STF). It ensures that all students progress through ranks based on skill, knowledge, discipline, and commitment, while maintaining international standards of Taekwondo.

2. Guiding Principles

Fairness: All students will be assessed equally regardless of age, gender, or background.
Consistency: Grading standards will be aligned across all STF-affiliated dojangs.
Excellence: Students must demonstrate both technical proficiency and personal growth.
Integrity: Promotions will be earned, not given.
Development: Each grading builds toward the long-term development of athletes in line with the STF LTAD (Long-Term Athlete Development) framework.

3. Eligibility for Grading

To be eligible for testing, students must:

Hold a valid STF membership and license.
Have attended at least 75% of scheduled classes since their last grading.
Meet the minimum time-in-rank requirement (varies by grade).
Receive approval from their Head Instructor.
Uphold the values of Taekwondo, including respect, discipline, and positive conduct inside and outside the dojang.

4. Grading Syllabus

The STF grading syllabus will include, but is not limited to:

Basic Techniques: stances, strikes, blocks, and kicks.
Forms (Poomsae): demonstration of precision, rhythm, and power.
Sparring (Kyorugi): controlled application of techniques in accordance with World Taekwondo (WT) rules.
Self-Defense (Hosinsul): practical application of techniques for personal safety.
Breaking (Kyukpa): demonstration of accuracy, power, and control (from intermediate level onward).
Knowledge: history, terminology, philosophy, and etiquette of Taekwondo.
Physical Fitness: endurance, flexibility, and strength appropriate to rank.

5. Gup (Colored Belt) Promotion Requirements

Students must show steady improvement in technical skills, etiquette, and character.
Examiners will assess accuracy, effort, discipline, and progression relative to age and level.
Promotion will only occur if the student meets all minimum requirements.
Belt colors and levels will follow the internationally recognized Taekwondo progression system.

6. Dan (Black Belt) Promotion Requirements

Promotion to Black Belt ranks (Dan grades) requires both technical mastery and personal maturity. The STF will use the following criteria:

1st Dan: Minimum age 16; minimum 1 year since last grading; grading may be conducted at the Club or STF level.
2nd Dan: Minimum age 18; 3 years since last grading; STF Dan Grading Panel only.
3rd Dan: Minimum age 21; 4 years since last grading; STF Dan Grading Panel only.
4th Dan: Minimum age 25; 5 years since last grading; STF Dan Grading Panel only.
5th Dan: Minimum age 35; 6 years since last grading; STF Dan Grading Panel only.

Note: Meeting the minimum time and age requirements does not guarantee promotion. The STF Dan Panel reserves the right to consider overall contribution, loyalty, teaching ability, and leadership within the Taekwondo community.

7. Grading Procedures

Clubs must submit grading applications and fees at least two weeks prior to the grading date.
Students will be assessed by STF-approved examiners.
Examiners must hold at least one rank higher than the level being tested.
Results will be communicated within 48 hours, and successful candidates will receive certificates and belt promotions.
Feedback will be provided to unsuccessful candidates, with guidance for future improvement.

8. Examiner Standards

Examiners must hold a valid STF instructor’s license.
Examiners must act with fairness, integrity, and impartiality.
No examiner shall test their own immediate family members.

9. Grading Fees

Fees will be set annually by the STF Management Committee.
Fees will cover administrative costs, certificates, and federation development.
Financial hardship cases may be reviewed to ensure equal access to promotion opportunities.

10. Appeals Process

Students who believe their grading result was unfair may submit a written appeal to the STF Technical Director within 7 days.
The STF Appeals Committee will review the case and provide a final decision within 30 days.

11. Recognition of External Grades

Students transferring from other federations may have their grade recognized upon review by the STF Technical Committee.
Proof of certification and verification with the issuing body may be required.
Final approval rests with the STF Technical Director.

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed every 2 years to ensure it remains aligned with international Taekwondo standards and the development needs of athletes in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.