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Referee & Official Development Policy

Athlete Development & Competition Framework

St. Vincent Taekwondo Federation – Referee & Official Development Policy

“Raising the Standard of Fairness, Accuracy, and Professionalism in Competition”

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure the consistent training, certification, and professional development of referees and officials under the St. Vincent Taekwondo Federation (STF). It aims to guarantee that all STF competitions — from local to international levels — are officiated with the highest standards of fairness, accuracy, and integrity in line with World Taekwondo (WT) regulations.

The policy also recognizes the unique challenges in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, including limited access to certified referees, and provides a clear pathway for building a sustainable pool of competent officials.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All referees, judges, and competition officials operating in STF-sanctioned events.

  • All STF members seeking to become certified referees or tournament officials.

  • All STF-affiliated clubs hosting competitions.

3. Guiding Principles

  • Fair Play – Every decision should be unbiased, transparent, and consistent.

  • Competence – All officials must possess the required knowledge, skills, and certifications.

  • Continuous Improvement – Ongoing training and evaluation for higher standards.

  • Inclusivity – Equal opportunities for men and women to participate as officials.

  • Alignment – Full compliance with WT rules and Pan American Taekwondo Union standards.

4. Referee & Official Pathway

4.1 Entry-Level Certification

  • Must be at least 18 years old.

  • Must be an active STF member in good standing.

  • Must complete a WT or STF-approved referee course covering competition rules, scoring systems, and ethics.

  • Must pass a written exam and a practical assessment.

4.2 National-Level Certification

  • Must hold entry-level referee certification.

  • Must have officiated at a minimum of three STF-sanctioned tournaments.

  • Must complete STF National Referee Training with emphasis on advanced rules, video replay systems, and conflict resolution.

  • Must demonstrate consistent accuracy in scoring and decision-making during evaluations.

4.3 International-Level Certification

  • Must be nominated by STF and accepted by the WT or Pan American Taekwondo Union.

  • Must attend WT International Referee Certification Course.

  • Must pass both theoretical and practical assessments under WT supervision.

5. Development & Education

The STF will provide:

  • Annual Referee Seminars to update officials on rule changes and best practices.

  • Workshops on ethics, communication, and technology use in officiating.

  • Mentorship Programs pairing new referees with experienced officials.

  • Opportunities for cross-border training in partnership with other Caribbean Taekwondo federations.

6. Evaluation & Performance Review

  • All referees and officials will be evaluated annually based on knowledge, professionalism, and performance in competitions.

  • Evaluations will include peer reviews, coach feedback, and video analysis of match decisions.

  • Poor performance or repeated errors may result in additional training requirements or temporary suspension from officiating duties.

7. Code of Conduct for Officials

All referees and officials must:

  • Maintain neutrality and avoid conflicts of interest.

  • Treat all athletes, coaches, and fellow officials with respect.

  • Refrain from public criticism of other officials or the STF.

  • Abstain from alcohol or prohibited substances while on duty.

  • Adhere strictly to WT and STF rules.

8. Conflict of Interest Policy for Officials

  • Officials must declare any personal, club, or family relationship that may affect impartiality in officiating.

  • Officials will not be assigned to matches involving athletes from their own club unless no alternative is available.

9. Incentives & Recognition

  • Outstanding referees and officials may be nominated for STF Annual Awards.

  • STF will provide certificates, recognition events, and sponsorship opportunities for high-performing officials.

10. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed every two years to ensure alignment with evolving WT regulations and best practices in sports officiating.

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