Complete Rules and Regulations
All competitors, instructors, coaches and judges are invited to join us for our annual rules meeting conducted via Zoom & in person on
March 7th at 9:00 A.M. CST
DMA of Sioux Falls
1516 S. Sycamore Ave. Sioux Falls, SD.
During this FREE Event, we will go over rules and answer any questions.
Please make sure to send a representative to ensure you & your students are aware of any rule changes.
To register for the free judges meeting please click the link below or Contact Sensei Joe at 605-370-0085.
Click Here to Register for the Judges and Coaches Meeting
If you are unable to make our Judges & Coaches Meeting you can watch the discussion here at this link
Discussion Link
March 7th at 9:00 A.M. CST
DMA of Sioux Falls
1516 S. Sycamore Ave. Sioux Falls, SD.
During this FREE Event, we will go over rules and answer any questions.
Please make sure to send a representative to ensure you & your students are aware of any rule changes.
To register for the free judges meeting please click the link below or Contact Sensei Joe at 605-370-0085.
Click Here to Register for the Judges and Coaches Meeting
If you are unable to make our Judges & Coaches Meeting you can watch the discussion here at this link
Discussion Link
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Complete Competition Rules and Regulations
The following rules govern all competition at the Sioux Falls Open Martial Arts Tournament. By registering for and/or participating in this event, all participants (and their legal guardians if under the age of 18) expressly acknowledge, accept, and agree to be bound by these rules, including any amendments or exceptions as outlined below.
All rules are subject to modification at any time, without prior notice, at the sole discretion of the tournament organizers or head officials. A pre-event rules review and Q&A session will be conducted for black belts and division officials via Zoom and in person prior to the start of the event. This session is intended to provide clarification and guidance but does not limit the authority of the officials to make real-time adjustments.
Tournament officials and judges reserve the right to interpret, modify, or make exceptions to these rules as deemed necessary to maintain fairness, ensure participant safety, or address unforeseen circumstances. Every reasonable effort will be made to communicate material rule changes to competitors (and parents or guardians, if applicable) prior to competition. However, the tournament and its organizers assume no liability for failure to provide advance notice.
Judges and officials are authorized to pause or stop competition at any time if they observe unsafe behavior or believe continuation may endanger any participant. All decisions made by tournament judges, referees, or promoters are final and binding and are not subject to protest or appeal.
Participants with questions about the rules or seeking clarification in advance of the event are strongly encouraged to contact Tournament Director Joe Herreman at [email protected] or by phone at 605-370-0085.
The following rules govern all competition at the Sioux Falls Open Martial Arts Tournament. By registering for and/or participating in this event, all participants (and their legal guardians if under the age of 18) expressly acknowledge, accept, and agree to be bound by these rules, including any amendments or exceptions as outlined below.
All rules are subject to modification at any time, without prior notice, at the sole discretion of the tournament organizers or head officials. A pre-event rules review and Q&A session will be conducted for black belts and division officials via Zoom and in person prior to the start of the event. This session is intended to provide clarification and guidance but does not limit the authority of the officials to make real-time adjustments.
Tournament officials and judges reserve the right to interpret, modify, or make exceptions to these rules as deemed necessary to maintain fairness, ensure participant safety, or address unforeseen circumstances. Every reasonable effort will be made to communicate material rule changes to competitors (and parents or guardians, if applicable) prior to competition. However, the tournament and its organizers assume no liability for failure to provide advance notice.
Judges and officials are authorized to pause or stop competition at any time if they observe unsafe behavior or believe continuation may endanger any participant. All decisions made by tournament judges, referees, or promoters are final and binding and are not subject to protest or appeal.
Participants with questions about the rules or seeking clarification in advance of the event are strongly encouraged to contact Tournament Director Joe Herreman at [email protected] or by phone at 605-370-0085.
FORMS COMPETITION RULES
Division Structure
All Forms Divisions are co-ed. Male and female (boys and girls) competitors will compete together in the same divisions. Divisions will be separated solely by age group and rank level as determined by the tournament officials.
Traditional Open-Hand Forms Division
Competitors may perform any traditional open-hand form that has been formally taught by their instructor. "Traditional" refers to classical martial arts forms recognized within established systems or lineages. Creative, freestyle, acrobatic, or XMA-style forms are expressly prohibited in this division.
Freestyle Open-Hand Forms Division
Competitors in this division may perform any open-hand form, including creative, acrobatic, theatrical, or XMA-style routines. Musical accompaniment is allowed but not required. If music is used, the competitor is solely responsible for providing all necessary audio equipment, including a functioning playback device and speaker. Tournament staff are not responsible for technical issues related to music playback.
Weapons Forms Division
Competitors may perform either traditional or creative/nontraditional weapons forms. Weapons do not have to be traditional martial arts weapons; however, all weapons and movements are subject to judge and official approval. Tournament officials reserve the right to prohibit or disqualify any weapon or performance element they determine to be unsafe, inappropriate, or excessively theatrical for a competition setting.
Judging Criteria
Each division will be judged by a panel of either three (3) or five (5) qualified judges. Scores will reflect the competitor’s overall performance, including technical execution, presentation, control, style-appropriate movement, and adherence to the division’s requirements. Judges’ decisions are final and not subject to protest or appeal.
At the conclusion of the division, the three highest total scores will determine 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards.
Tie-Break ProceduresIn the event of a tie for 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place, tied competitors will be asked to repeat their performance. They may choose to perform the same form or a different one, provided it still meets the criteria of the division. If a second tie occurs, the judges will select a winner by vote. The competitor receiving the majority vote will be awarded the placement.
Competitor InstructionsEach competitor must introduce themselves to the judging panel before performing by stating the following:
Mistakes and Restarts
Youth Division (12 & under): If a competitor makes a mistake during their form, they may restart once without penalty.
All other divisions: Mistakes should not stop the performance. Competitors are expected to recover and complete the form to the best of their ability. Restarting may result in scoring deductions or disqualification, at the judges’ discretion.
Division Structure
All Forms Divisions are co-ed. Male and female (boys and girls) competitors will compete together in the same divisions. Divisions will be separated solely by age group and rank level as determined by the tournament officials.
Traditional Open-Hand Forms Division
Competitors may perform any traditional open-hand form that has been formally taught by their instructor. "Traditional" refers to classical martial arts forms recognized within established systems or lineages. Creative, freestyle, acrobatic, or XMA-style forms are expressly prohibited in this division.
Freestyle Open-Hand Forms Division
Competitors in this division may perform any open-hand form, including creative, acrobatic, theatrical, or XMA-style routines. Musical accompaniment is allowed but not required. If music is used, the competitor is solely responsible for providing all necessary audio equipment, including a functioning playback device and speaker. Tournament staff are not responsible for technical issues related to music playback.
- WARNING: This division may include high-risk movements such as flips, aerials, or gymnastic elements. All competitors choosing to incorporate such techniques do so at their own risk. By participating in this division, competitors (and their legal guardians, if under 18) accept full responsibility for any injury or harm resulting from the execution of such techniques and release the tournament organizers, staff, judges, and venue from any and all liability.
- Additionally, judges reserve the right to disqualify or deduct points from routines deemed excessively dangerous, reckless, or inappropriate for the competition environment. Competitors are expected to use good judgment and prioritize safety for themselves and others.
Weapons Forms Division
Competitors may perform either traditional or creative/nontraditional weapons forms. Weapons do not have to be traditional martial arts weapons; however, all weapons and movements are subject to judge and official approval. Tournament officials reserve the right to prohibit or disqualify any weapon or performance element they determine to be unsafe, inappropriate, or excessively theatrical for a competition setting.
- Use of musical accompaniment is permitted under the same conditions as the Freestyle division. Competitors must provide their own audio equipment (e.g., playback device and speaker). Tournament staff will not assist with music setup or troubleshooting.
- WARNING: Performances in this division may include spinning, throwing, or acrobatic techniques involving weapons. By entering this division, competitors (and their legal guardians, if under 18) assume all risks associated with such movements and agree to release and hold harmless the tournament organizers, judges, staff, and venue from any and all liability for injury, damage, or loss resulting from participation.
- Judges reserve the right to issue point deductions or disqualify a competitor whose routine includes unsafe techniques, endangers themselves or others, or violates the spirit of controlled martial arts performance.
- Weapon Drops: Any teen or adult competitor who drops their weapon—or any part of it (e.g., sheath, chain, staff segments)—during performance will be disqualified, unless the drop was clearly disclosed to and approved by the judges prior to the start of the routine as part of the intended choreography. The decision of the judging panel in these matters is final and non-negotiable.
Judging Criteria
Each division will be judged by a panel of either three (3) or five (5) qualified judges. Scores will reflect the competitor’s overall performance, including technical execution, presentation, control, style-appropriate movement, and adherence to the division’s requirements. Judges’ decisions are final and not subject to protest or appeal.
At the conclusion of the division, the three highest total scores will determine 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards.
Tie-Break ProceduresIn the event of a tie for 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place, tied competitors will be asked to repeat their performance. They may choose to perform the same form or a different one, provided it still meets the criteria of the division. If a second tie occurs, the judges will select a winner by vote. The competitor receiving the majority vote will be awarded the placement.
Competitor InstructionsEach competitor must introduce themselves to the judging panel before performing by stating the following:
- Full name
- Martial arts school represented
- Name of their instructor
- Name of the form to be performed (and whether it is considered hard or soft style)
Mistakes and Restarts
Youth Division (12 & under): If a competitor makes a mistake during their form, they may restart once without penalty.
All other divisions: Mistakes should not stop the performance. Competitors are expected to recover and complete the form to the best of their ability. Restarting may result in scoring deductions or disqualification, at the judges’ discretion.
SPARRING COMPETITION RULES
Divisions:
Sparring divisions will be structured by age and gender. For youth competitors ages 12 and under, boys and girls may be combined into mixed-gender brackets. For competitors age 13 and older, male and female divisions will be separated.
In the event a division has too few participants to form a competitive bracket, the tournament director reserves the right to combine, restructure, or reassign divisions in order to provide the most appropriate and competitive experience for all participants.
Judging:
All sparring matches will be officiated by either three (3) or five (5) judges, including a designated center referee. A majority of judges present must agree for a point, warning, or other decision to be valid. Judges may confer briefly to clarify calls, but excessive delays will be avoided to maintain match flow.
Match time:
Each sparring match will be two (2) minutes in length. Time will run continuously unless stopped by the center referee for official reasons such as injury, equipment malfunction, safety concerns, or clarification of rules.
Declaring a Winner:
A winner will be determined by one of the following criteria:
Ties:
If both competitors are tied at the end of the two-minute regulation period, the match will continue into a one-minute overtime round. If the score remains tied after overtime, the match will proceed to sudden death, where the first valid scoring technique confirmed by a majority of judges will determine the winner.
Equipment:
All sparring competitors must wear appropriate safety gear. All required equipment must be approved by the center referee or a designated gear inspector prior to the start of competition. Any gear deemed unsafe, damaged, or inappropriate must be replaced or adjusted before the competitor is allowed to participate. A limited number of loaner gear sets will be available on-site through DMA of Sioux Falls.
Mandatory Equipment:
Optional Equipment
Scoring:
Each valid scoring technique will be awarded one (1) point. There are no additional points for difficulty or technique type.
To score, all strikes must be executed with light, controlled contact to legal target areas. Excessive contact will result in penalties or disqualification, as determined by the judges. Only techniques delivered with proper control and technique will be considered valid for scoring.
In divisions where head contact is permitted (Teen Advanced, Adult Advanced, and Black Belt divisions), light contact to the head is allowed and must be controlled. In all other divisions, competitors must stop their strike within two inches of the head to be awarded a point.
Target Areas:
Illegal Target Areas:
Legal Strikes:
Illegal Techniques:
Fighting from the ground:
If a competitor falls or is taken to the ground, scoring is still permitted. The center referee will begin an audible three-second count, during which legal techniques may be used to score. After three seconds, the referee will call “Break,” and both competitors will be returned to a standing position.
Warnings:
Warnings are divided into three categories
Illegal Technique Warnings:
A warning will be awarded for any intentional strikes to the illegal areas, strikes with excessive contact, or use of an illegal technique
Out of Ring Warnings:
Out of Ring Warnings will be issued to any competitor who steps out of the ring with one foot. Competitors who are out of the ring cannot score, but can be scored upon as long as one foot is still in the ring.
Poor Sportsman Conduct Warnings:
Because the purpose of competition is to engage in healthy competition with others to improve and test one’s self, it is in the interest of all that both competitors and spectators conduct themselves within the proper spirit of the arts. With that in mind, a competitor may be penalized for poor conduct from themselves, their coaches/instructors, or their fans.
At any time, the judging panel may issue an immediate disqualification for gross misconduct, excessive violence, or dangerous behavior.
Divisions:
Sparring divisions will be structured by age and gender. For youth competitors ages 12 and under, boys and girls may be combined into mixed-gender brackets. For competitors age 13 and older, male and female divisions will be separated.
In the event a division has too few participants to form a competitive bracket, the tournament director reserves the right to combine, restructure, or reassign divisions in order to provide the most appropriate and competitive experience for all participants.
Judging:
All sparring matches will be officiated by either three (3) or five (5) judges, including a designated center referee. A majority of judges present must agree for a point, warning, or other decision to be valid. Judges may confer briefly to clarify calls, but excessive delays will be avoided to maintain match flow.
Match time:
Each sparring match will be two (2) minutes in length. Time will run continuously unless stopped by the center referee for official reasons such as injury, equipment malfunction, safety concerns, or clarification of rules.
Declaring a Winner:
A winner will be determined by one of the following criteria:
- Competitor with the most points at the end of two minutes
- Competitor shows definitive dominance by achieving a five (5) point spread over their opponent
- Opponent bows out of the match, withdraws, concedes, or is disqualified
Ties:
If both competitors are tied at the end of the two-minute regulation period, the match will continue into a one-minute overtime round. If the score remains tied after overtime, the match will proceed to sudden death, where the first valid scoring technique confirmed by a majority of judges will determine the winner.
Equipment:
All sparring competitors must wear appropriate safety gear. All required equipment must be approved by the center referee or a designated gear inspector prior to the start of competition. Any gear deemed unsafe, damaged, or inappropriate must be replaced or adjusted before the competitor is allowed to participate. A limited number of loaner gear sets will be available on-site through DMA of Sioux Falls.
Mandatory Equipment:
- Mouth Guard
- Male groin protection
- Hand gear – must cover thumb and second knuckle. No MMA gloves.
- Footgear – must cover the toes and the instep
- Head gear – must cover the forehead and back of head.
Optional Equipment
- Chest protectors
- Forearm guards
- Shin guards
- Female groin protection
Scoring:
Each valid scoring technique will be awarded one (1) point. There are no additional points for difficulty or technique type.
To score, all strikes must be executed with light, controlled contact to legal target areas. Excessive contact will result in penalties or disqualification, as determined by the judges. Only techniques delivered with proper control and technique will be considered valid for scoring.
In divisions where head contact is permitted (Teen Advanced, Adult Advanced, and Black Belt divisions), light contact to the head is allowed and must be controlled. In all other divisions, competitors must stop their strike within two inches of the head to be awarded a point.
Target Areas:
- Front and sides of the torso
- Kidneys
- Head: contact rules depend on the division. (See above)
Illegal Target Areas:
- Anything below the belt (including thighs, knees, and groin)
- Spine
- Shoulder blades
- Contact to the head depending on the division
Legal Strikes:
- Straight and reverse punches
- Backfist strikes
- Ridge hand strikes (thumb side of hand)
- All kicks using the foot gear or bottom of the foot as a striking tool
- Sweeps to the front leg foot gear, from the outside in, if immediately followed by a legal strike to a target area
Illegal Techniques:
- Spinning back hands
- Knife hand strikes (pinky side of hand)
- Open hand strikes
- Upper cuts
- Spear Hand strikes
- Claw strikes
- Shin and forearm strikes
- Knee and elbow strikes
- Sweeps other than stated above
- Grabs lasting longer than 2 seconds
- Judges may also penalize any other technique they deem to be unsafe, excessive, or outside the spirit of controlled competition.
Fighting from the ground:
If a competitor falls or is taken to the ground, scoring is still permitted. The center referee will begin an audible three-second count, during which legal techniques may be used to score. After three seconds, the referee will call “Break,” and both competitors will be returned to a standing position.
Warnings:
Warnings are divided into three categories
Illegal Technique Warnings:
A warning will be awarded for any intentional strikes to the illegal areas, strikes with excessive contact, or use of an illegal technique
- First warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second warning – One (1) point awarded to other competitor
- Third warning – Competitor will be disqualified
Out of Ring Warnings:
Out of Ring Warnings will be issued to any competitor who steps out of the ring with one foot. Competitors who are out of the ring cannot score, but can be scored upon as long as one foot is still in the ring.
- First Warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second Warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Third Warning – The other competitor will be awarded 1 point
Poor Sportsman Conduct Warnings:
Because the purpose of competition is to engage in healthy competition with others to improve and test one’s self, it is in the interest of all that both competitors and spectators conduct themselves within the proper spirit of the arts. With that in mind, a competitor may be penalized for poor conduct from themselves, their coaches/instructors, or their fans.
- First warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second warning – One (1) point awarded to other competitor
- Third warning – Competitor will be disqualified
At any time, the judging panel may issue an immediate disqualification for gross misconduct, excessive violence, or dangerous behavior.
GRAPPLING COMPETITION RULES
Equipment: The following equipment is required for competition in Grappling Competition. If you are not sure if you equipment is acceptable for competition, please have it inspected by your center judge or a tournament official prior to beginning competition. Any equipment that does not meet the following guidelines will need to be replaces or modified prior to competition.
Mandatory Equipment:
- Gi Grappling Uniform:
- Complete Karate/Judo Uniform (Jacket, pants, belt)
- Jacket sleeves must come to within at least two inches of the wrist when the arm is extended straight parallel to the ground and must have a minimum of a 2-inch opening of the sleeve at full extension.
- Pant legs must be no more than 2 inches above the ankle bone.
- Uniform must be in good repair, dry and may not emanate unpleasant odors
- Complete Karate/Judo Uniform (Jacket, pants, belt)
- No Gi Grappling Uniform
- T-shirt or rash guard for no-gi divisions
- T-shirts and rash guards must be tucked into pants / shorts.
- Shorts or pants for no-gi divisions
- Shorts must cover at least halfway down the thigh
- T-shirt or rash guard for no-gi divisions
- Mouth Guard
- All clothing / uniforms must be free of pockets (or pockets must be sewn shut), zippers, snaps or any other kind of metal or plastic that may present a risk to the opponent.
- No Jewelry is allowed during competition
Match time:
- Youth Divisions (Age 12 & Under) – Two (2) minutes with a one (1) minute overtime in the event of a tie
- Adult Divisions (Age 13 & Over) – Three (3) minutes with a one (1) minute overtime in the event of a tie
Stoppages:
The clock may be stopped any time the judge finds it necessary. Common reasons may include: out of ring, blood, injury, need to confer with scorekeepers, etc. If this occurs, time will be recorded and the match will continue from that time frame for the full length of the match.
Blood Time:
If a competitor is bleeding, has an open wound, or has visible blood on their person or uniform, the match will be stopped immediately. The competitor must receive appropriate medical attention. The wound must be cleaned, covered, and all blood removed from the athlete’s uniform and body before they are allowed to continue. If necessary, the uniform must be changed.
The competitor will be charged with “blood time.” The amount and number of blood time stoppages are left to the referee’s discretion, with a cumulative time limit of five (5) minutes. If the bleeding cannot be stopped and the competitor cannot return within the five-minute limit, their opponent will be awarded the match by default.
In cases where bleeding is the result of an illegal technique, unsportsmanlike conduct, or excessive force, and the injured competitor reaches the blood time limit, that competitor will instead be declared the winner by disqualification.
Clean-up time following a successful stoppage of bleeding is not counted against the five-minute limit.
Out of Ring:
When competitors are engaged on their feet, stepping out of bounds with one foot will result in an “Out of Ring” warning. While standing, a competitor who steps out of bounds may not score, but may still be scored upon if their opponent remains within the ring.
When grappling on the ground, if approximately two-thirds of both competitors’ bodies leave the competition area, the referee will pause the match and bring competitors back to the center of the ring in a standing neutral position.
Exceptions to this restart include:
- If a competitor secures a submission hold while in the safety area (edge), the referee will allow the submission to continue unless an injury appears imminent.
- If a competitor transitions into a scoring position off the mat, the referee may allow time for the position to stabilize for three (3) seconds before stopping the match. If control is achieved, points will be awarded and the match restarted at the center.
Scoring:
Points are awarded only when a position is clearly achieved and stabilized for at least three (3) seconds, or when a takedown is completed with control. The referee will announce an audible three-count before confirming the score.
Points are granted only for advancing position, and positions must be stabilized to be valid. A competitor may not surrender a higher-value position (e.g., mount) to gain points for a lesser one (e.g., side control).
Cumulative scoring is permitted during positional transitions, provided that each position is held for the full three-second count. For example, if a competitor transitions from side control to mount and stabilizes both positions, points for each will be awarded.
In cases where a competitor moves directly from back mount to full mount or vice versa, each distinct mount position may score separately—as long as each is stabilized for the full count. Repeated transitions between the same two positions without stability do not result in additional points.
Points Explanation:
- 2 Points – Minor Takedown: From a standing position, the competitor brings the opponent to the ground with a basic takedown (such as a trip or single/double leg) and establishes control.
- 3 Points – Major Takedown: From a standing position, the competitor executes a dynamic and technically clean martial arts takedown (e.g., hip throw, high-amplitude lift, or sacrifice throw) in which both of the opponent’s feet leave the ground. Control must be established at the conclusion of the technique.
- 3 Points – Side control: The competitor maintains dominant side control or a clear knee-on-belly position for a continuous 3-second count, while the opponent is on their back.
- 4 Points – Mount: The competitor establishes and holds a mounted position with knees and feet in contact with the mat on either side of the opponent's torso for 3 seconds.
- 4 Points – Back Mount/Rear Guard: The competitor takes and maintains back control with both feet clearly hooked (or with a body triangle) and control maintained for a continuous 3-second count.
- 2 Points – Reversal: A smooth transition from a controlled or losing position (where the opponent had earned points) into a dominant position, executed in one continuous motion.
- 1 Point – Escape: A transition from a controlled or losing position (after opponent has scored points) to a neutral standing position in one clean and continuous movement.
- 1 Point – Submission Position (Youth Divisions Only): Competitor achieves a legal submission position targeting a joint (wrist, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, or ankle), but does not apply pressure. This is a controlled demonstration of the hold for points—submission pressure is prohibited in youth divisions.
- Submission – Securing a legal submission that forces the opponent to tap or verbally submit results in an immediate victory.
Illegal Techniques/Positions (All Divisions):
The following techniques and actions are strictly prohibited in all divisions:
- Neck cranks
- Finger & Toe locks, or gripping less than 3 fingers at a time
- Biting, eye gouging, or hair pulling
- Slamming an opponent from guard position
- Kicking, Punching or striking of any kind.
- Any other techniques which the judges feel are unsafe or inappropriate
Declaring a Winner:
A winner will be determined by one of the following criteria:
- Competitor with the most points at the end of allotted time
- Competitor submits his or her opponent with a legal technique (Teen and Adult Divisions Only)
- Opponent bows out of the match or is unable to control bleeding
Ties:
If at the end of the regular time limit the score is tied, the match will continue for one (1) minute of overtime. If at the end of the one minute over time, the score is still tied, winner will be determined by the first competitor to score.
Warnings:
Warnings are divided into four categories.
Illegal Technique Warnings:
A warning will be awarded for any intentional strikes to the illegal areas, strikes with excessive contact, striking during the grappling phase, or use of an illegal technique.
- First warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second warning – One (1) point awarded to other competitor
- Third warning – Competitor will be disqualified
Stalling Warnings:
Stalling warnings will be issued to any competitor who deliberately attempts to prevent the progress of the match without improving his or her position.
- First warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second warning – One (1) point awarded to other competitor
- Third warning or more – Two (2) points awarded to other competitor
Poor sportsman Conduct Warnings:
Because the purpose of competition is to engage in healthy competition with others to improve and test one’s self, it is in the interest of all that both competitors and spectators conduct themselves within the proper spirit of the arts. With that in mind, a competitor may be penalized for poor conduct from themselves, their coaches/instructors, or their fans.
- First warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second warning – One (1) point awarded to other competitor
- Third warning – Competitor will be disqualified
Out of Ring Warnings:
Out of ring warnings will be issued to any competitor who steps off the mat with one foot while on his or her feet, or deliberately attempts to move off the mats while on the ground.
- First warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Third warning or more - After 2 out of ring warnings the other competitor will be awarded 1 point for each additional infraction
At the Judges’ discretion a competitor may be disqualified from competition at any time.
Divisions:
Youth (12 & Under): Boys and girls compete together. No submissions allowed—only positional control scoring and submission positioning (without pressure).
Teen & Adult (13 & Up): Male and female divisions are separated. Legal submissions are allowed and result in an automatic win.
Weight Classes:
Expected weight classes will be published prior to the tournament. However, brackets may be adjusted based on registration to ensure the most meaningful match-ups and to maximize the number of matches each competitor receives. Divisions may be merged if necessary to facilitate fair and active competition.
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SELF DEFENSE APPLICATION COMPETITION RULES
Divisions:
Self-defense divisions are co-ed; boys and girls (or men and women) will compete in the same divisions. Divisions will be separated by age group and rank.
Teams
Teams may consist of up to four (4) members. All team members must be approximately the same age and size. For safety reasons, no adult or teen may act as an attacker for a child.
Team members may hold any rank, but teams must register in the division of:
- The highest-ranked member (based on belt level)
- The oldest team member
Safety:
The goal of this division is to demonstrate effective martial arts while also allowing creativity and differences in style to be showcased. If you are unsure if your techniques are acceptable, please speak to a judge prior to competition. If any team member injures another team member the team will be automatically disqualified from self defense application division. Please be sure your attacker knows how to take an effective fall if you intend to use a takedown or throw during your demonstration.
Equipment:
Demonstrations will take place on the same mat space used for grappling events. All competitors must wear their standard martial arts uniform—costumes, casual clothing, or themed outfits are not permitted in this division. All training weapons must be either rubber or wooden and must be inspected and approved by the judges before competition begins. A selection of approved practice weapons will be available for teams that need them. While mouthguards are optional, all male participants—both attackers and defenders—must wear a groin protector.
Use of Weapons in Demonstrations
Weapon-based attacks are permitted only in Teen and Adult Advanced divisions. All defensive sequences must begin with the defender unarmed. Weapons must be pre-approved rubber or wooden training replicas. The following attack types are allowed:
- Knife attacks with a blade length under 20 cm
- Stick or club attacks with a weapon less than 1 meter in length
- Firearm threats or disarms using rubber or wooden training guns
Time Limit
Each team has a maximum of five (5) minutes from the moment they are called to the mat to complete their full demonstration, including introductions and equipment inspections. This time does not include time judges need to deliberate or score. If a team goes over this 5-minute limit, a 1-point deduction will be applied for each 30 seconds (or portion thereof) they exceed the limit:
- 0:01–0:30 over: 1 point deduction
- 0:31–1:00 over: 2 point deduction
- 1:01–1:30 over: 3 point deduction
- ... and so on
Judges will begin timing as soon as the team is called to the mat. It is the team’s responsibility to be prepared and stay within the time limit.
Performance and Judging
Teams will be judged collectively. A panel of three or five judges will evaluate each demonstration based on the logical application of techniques, their effectiveness, control, and overall presentation. If a weapon is used, the team must demonstrate clear control of the weapon at the conclusion of the technique, or points will be deducted. All defense sequences must begin with the defender unarmed.
After each team’s demonstration, judges will immediately present their scores. Once all performances are complete within a division, the top three highest-scoring teams will be awarded 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, respectively.
Ties:
In the event of a tie for 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place, those competitors will be asked to perform their demonstration again. Defensive techniques may be the same techniques previously demonstrated, or a different demonstration. In the event of a second tie, judges will be asked to point to the team he or she believes deserves to win. The competitor with the most votes will be declared winner.
Competition:
Each competitor should inform the judges of his/her name, the martial arts school being represented, his/her instructor's name, the name of his or her partner(s).
- For youth (12 & Under) competitors: If a mistake is made during the demonstration, youth competitors may start over one time with no penalty to their score. For any additional mistakes, the competitor should finish to the best of their ability.
- All other divisions: If a mistake is made, continue to finish the technique(s) to the best of your ability.
SPORT JUJITSU COMPETITION RULES
Equipment:
The following equipment is required for competition in Sport Jujitsu Divisions. If you are not sure if you equipment is acceptable for competition, please have it inspected by your center judge prior to beginning competition. Any equipment does not meet the following guidelines will need to be changed prior to competition. (DMA of Sioux Falls will have a few sets of loaner gear available for any participant that does not have the correct equipment.)
Mandatory Equipment:
- Complete Karate/Judo style uniform. (Jacket, pants, belt)
- Mouth Guard
- Male groin protection
- Hand gear – must cover the first knuckle (MMA style gloves recommended). Gloves with grip bars are not allowed.
- Footgear – must cover the shin and the instep
- Head gear – must cover the forehead and back of head. No face shields will be allowed.
Optional Equipment
- Chest protectors
- Forearm guards (may not support the wrist)
- Shin guards
- Female groin protection
Match Time:
- Teen Divisions – Two (2) minutes with a one (1) minute overtime in the event of a tie
- Adult Divisions – Three (3) minutes with a one (1) minute overtime in the event of a tie
Declaring a winner:
Winner will be determined by one of the following:
- Competitor successfully submits his or her opponent twice within the match.
- Having the highest total score at the end of the match
Ties:
If at the end of the match the score is tied, competitors will compete in a one minute over-time. If at the end of the one minute overtime the score is still tied, the match will be determined by a “Golden Score” round. Competitors will begin on their feet, and the first competitor to score a legal point will be determined to be the winner.
Scoring:
Winner will be determined combined scoring of techniques in both the sparring and grappling phases. Sparring scores from three judges will be averaged together and then added to the grappling score determined by the center judge. Competitor with the highest score at the end of the two rounds will be declared winner.
Example: Center Judge Sparring Score = 12
Right Corner Judge Sparring Score = 14
Left Corner Judge Sparring Score = 13
39 / 3 = Sparring score of 13
Center Judge Grappling Score = 15
Total Score = 28 Points
Sparring Phase Scoring:
Points may only be scored in the sparring phase if neither opponent has a grip on the other opponent. Once a grip is obtained by either opponent, the Center Judge will call out “Grip” and the striking phase will stop. Any striking after a grip is obtained will receive an illegal technique warning. If the grip is broken, opponents may return to the sparring phase when the Center Judge calls out “Spar.”
Target Areas:
- Front of body
- Side of body
- Kidneys
- Head: 2-inches from the head for all beginner and intermediate divisions. Light head contact will be allowed in the Advanced and Black Belt Divisions only.
Illegal Target Areas:
- Anything below the belt (waist)
- Spine& Shoulder blades
- Contact to the head for beginner and intermediate divisions
Legal Strikes:
- Straight and reverse punches
- Back hands
- Ridge hands (thumb side of hand)
- All kicks using the foot as a striking tool
- Sweeps to the front leg foot gear from the outside in, immediately followed by a legal strike to a target area
Illegal Techniques:
- Spinning back hands
- Knife hand strikes (pinky side of hand)
- Open hand strikes
- Upper cuts
- Spear Hand strikes
- Claw strikes
- Shin and forearm strikes
- Knee and elbow strikes
- Sweeps other than stated above
- Striking while grabbing
Scoring:
All strikes must land with light contract. Excessive contact will result in a warning.
- 1 point for any legal hand technique executed with control to a legal target area.
- 1 point for any kick that uses the foot as a striking tool, executed with control to the body
- 2 points for any kick that uses the foot as a striking tool, executed with control to the head. Beginner and Intermeditate divisions, strikes must stop two inches from opponent’s head. Advanced belts and Black belts must hit the head with light contact and control.
Grappling Phase Scoring:
The grappling phase begins once a grip has been obtained by either opponent. When this occurs, the Center Judge will call out “Grip.” All striking must end at this time. The grappling phase ends when both opponents disengage from grabs of any kind and the Center Judge calls out “Spar.”
Awarding Points:
Points are awarded only when a position is clearly achieved and stabilized for at least three (3) seconds, or when a takedown is completed with control. The referee will announce an audible three-count before confirming the score.
Points are granted only for advancing position, and positions must be stabilized to be valid. A competitor may not surrender a higher-value position (e.g., mount) to gain points for a lesser one (e.g., side control).
Cumulative scoring is permitted during positional transitions, provided that each position is held for the full three-second count. For example, if a competitor transitions from side control to mount and stabilizes both positions, points for each will be awarded.
In cases where a competitor moves directly from back mount to full mount or vice versa, each distinct mount position may score separately—as long as each is stabilized for the full count. Repeated transitions between the same two positions without stability do not result in additional points.
Points Explanation:
- 2 Points – Minor Takedown: From a standing position, the competitor brings the opponent to the ground with a basic takedown (such as a trip or single/double leg) and establishes control.
- 3 Points – Major Takedown: From a standing position, the competitor executes a dynamic and technically clean martial arts takedown (e.g., hip throw, high-amplitude lift, or sacrifice throw) in which both of the opponent’s feet leave the ground. Control must be established at the conclusion of the technique.
- 3 Points – Side control: The competitor maintains dominant side control or a clear knee-on-belly position for a continuous 3-second count, while the opponent is on their back.
- 4 Points – Mount: The competitor establishes and holds a mounted position with knees and feet in contact with the mat on either side of the opponent's torso for 3 seconds.
- 4 Points – Back Mount/Rear Guard: The competitor takes and maintains back control with both feet clearly hooked (or with a body triangle) and control maintained for a continuous 3-second count.
- 2 Points – Reversal: A smooth transition from a controlled or losing position (where the opponent had earned points) into a dominant position, executed in one continuous motion.
- 1 Point – Escape: A transition from a controlled or losing position (after opponent has scored points) to a neutral standing position in one clean and continuous movement.
- 1 Point – Submission Position (Youth Divisions Only): Competitor achieves a legal submission position targeting a joint (wrist, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, or ankle), but does not apply pressure. This is a controlled demonstration of the hold for points—submission pressure is prohibited in youth divisions.
- 5 Points – 1st Submission
- 2nd Submission – Automatic win
Submission:
- The first time a competitor submits his or her opponent, he or she will receive 5 points, the match will be stopped, and both competitors will be returned to their feet to continue the competition.
- In the case of a second submission by the same competitor, the match will be stopped and that competitor will be declared winner.
Illegal Techniques/Positions (All Divisions):
The following techniques and actions are strictly prohibited in all divisions:
- Neck cranks
- Finger & Toe locks, or gripping less than 3 fingers at a time
- Biting, eye gouging, or hair pulling
- Slamming an opponent from guard position
- Kicking, Punching or striking of any kind.
- Any other techniques which the judges feel are unsafe or inappropriate
Stoppages:
The clock may be stopped any time the judge finds it necessary. Common reasons may include: out of ring, blood, injury, need to confer with scorekeepers. If this occurs, time will be recorded and the match will continue from that time frame for the full length of the match.
Blood Time:
If a competitor is bleeding, has an open wound, or has visible blood on their person or uniform, the match will be stopped immediately. The competitor must receive appropriate medical attention. The wound must be cleaned, covered, and all blood removed from the athlete’s uniform and body before they are allowed to continue. If necessary, the uniform must be changed.
The competitor will be charged with “blood time.” The amount and number of blood time stoppages are left to the referee’s discretion, with a cumulative time limit of five (5) minutes. If the bleeding cannot be stopped and the competitor cannot return within the five-minute limit, their opponent will be awarded the match by default.
In cases where bleeding is the result of an illegal technique, unsportsmanlike conduct, or excessive force, and the injured competitor reaches the blood time limit, that competitor will instead be declared the winner by disqualification.
Clean-up time following a successful stoppage of bleeding is not counted against the five-minute limit.
Out of Ring:
When competitors are engaged on their feet, stepping out of bounds with one foot will result in an “Out of Ring” warning
While standing, a competitor who steps out of bounds may not score, but may still be scored upon if their opponent remains within the ring.
When grappling on the ground, if approximately two-thirds of both competitors’ bodies leave the competition area, the referee will pause the match and bring competitors back to the center of the ring in a standing neutral position.
Exceptions to this restart include:
- If a competitor secures a submission hold while in the safety area (edge), the referee will allow the submission to continue unless an injury appears imminent.
- If a competitor transitions into a scoring position off the mat, the referee may allow time for the position to stabilize for three (3) seconds before stopping the match. If control is achieved, points will be awarded and the match restarted at the center.
Warnings:
Warnings are divided into four categories.
Illegal Technique Warnings:
A warning will be awarded for any intentional strikes to the illegal areas, strikes with excessive contact, striking during the grappling phase, or use of an illegal technique.
- First warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second warning – One (1) point awarded to other competitor
- Third warning – Competitor will be disqualified
Out of Ring Warnings:
Out of ring warnings will be issued to any competitor who steps off the mat with one foot while on his or her feet, or deliberately attempts to move off the mats while on the ground.
- First warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Third warning or more - After 2 out of ring warnings the other competitor will be awarded 1 point for each additional infraction
Stalling Warnings:
Stalling warnings will be issued to any competitor who deliberately attempts to prevent the progress of the match without improving his or her position.
- First warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second warning – One (1) point awarded to other competitor
- Third warning or more – Two (2) points awarded to other competitor
Poor sportsman Conduct Warnings:
Because the purpose of competition is to engage in healthy competition with others to improve and test one’s self, it is in the interest of all that both competitors and spectators conduct themselves within the proper spirit of the arts. With that in mind, a competitor may be penalized for poor conduct from themselves, their coaches/instructors, or their fans.
- First warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second warning – One (1) point awarded to other competitor
- Third warning – Competitor will be disqualified
At the Judges’ discretion a competitor may be disqualified from competition at any time.
PADDED SWORD COMPETITION RULES
Divisions:
Male and Female competitors will compete in the same divisions. The only separations will be based on age and experience level to ensure fair and fun matches for everyone.
Judging:
For all padded sword divisions there will be one (1) center judge. Two (2) corner judges will be provided if available.
A majority of judges (2 out of 3) must agree to award points or issue warnings.
The center judge may nullify a call made by the other judges if proper technique, safety, or control is not demonstrated.
All warnings and disqualifications require agreement by a majority of judges.
Match time:
Padded sword matches will be 2 minutes in time. Time will run continuously during the match unless specific instructions to stop the time are given by the center referee.
Declaring a Winner:
A winner will be determined by one of the following criteria:
Ties:
If at the end of two (2) minutes, the match will continue for one (1) minute of overtime. If at the end of the one minute over time, the score is still tied, winner will be determined by the first competitor to score.
Equipment:
The following equipment is required for competition in Padded Sword Divisions. If you are not sure if you equipment is acceptable for competition, please have it inspected by your center judge prior to beginning competition. Any equipment does not meet the following guidelines will need to be replace prior to competition.
Mandatory Equipment:
The following equipment will be provided by event organizers.
Scoring:
Target Areas:
Fouls / Illegal Techniques
Out of Bounds
Warnings:
Warnings are divided into three categories
Illegal Technique Warnings:
A warning will be awarded for any intentional strikes to the illegal areas, strikes with excessive contact, or use of an illegal technique
Out of Ring Warnings:
Out of Ring Warnings will be issued to any competitor who steps out of the ring with one foot. Competitors who are out of the ring cannot score, but can be scored upon as long as one foot is still in the ring.
If a competitor is actively pushing opponent out of the ring the out of ring warning will be issued to the competitor that pushes the other competitor out of the ring.
Poor sportsman Conduct Warnings:
Because the purpose of competition is to engage in healthy competition with others to improve and test one’s self, it is in the interest of all that both competitors and spectators conduct themselves within the proper spirit of the arts. With that in mind, a competitor may be penalized for poor conduct from themselves, their coaches/instructors, or their fans.
At the Judges’ discretion a competitor may be disqualified from competition at any time.
Divisions:
Male and Female competitors will compete in the same divisions. The only separations will be based on age and experience level to ensure fair and fun matches for everyone.
Judging:
For all padded sword divisions there will be one (1) center judge. Two (2) corner judges will be provided if available.
A majority of judges (2 out of 3) must agree to award points or issue warnings.
The center judge may nullify a call made by the other judges if proper technique, safety, or control is not demonstrated.
All warnings and disqualifications require agreement by a majority of judges.
Match time:
Padded sword matches will be 2 minutes in time. Time will run continuously during the match unless specific instructions to stop the time are given by the center referee.
Declaring a Winner:
A winner will be determined by one of the following criteria:
- Competitor with the most points at the end of two minutes
- Competitor shows definitive dominance by achieving a five (5) point spread over their opponent
- Opponent bows out of the match
Ties:
If at the end of two (2) minutes, the match will continue for one (1) minute of overtime. If at the end of the one minute over time, the score is still tied, winner will be determined by the first competitor to score.
Equipment:
The following equipment is required for competition in Padded Sword Divisions. If you are not sure if you equipment is acceptable for competition, please have it inspected by your center judge prior to beginning competition. Any equipment does not meet the following guidelines will need to be replace prior to competition.
Mandatory Equipment:
- Mouth Guard
- Groin protection for male competitors
The following equipment will be provided by event organizers.
- Head gear with face mask (competitors are also welcome to use their own)
- Padded sword
- Protective gloves
Scoring:
- All scoring techniques are worth one (1) point.
- Strikes must land with enough force to make a clear “pop” sound on the padded sword.
- Techniques must be controlled and representative of realistic blade strikes. Wild, uncontrolled swings do not score.
- Competitors must shout when striking (similar to kendo rules but you don't have to call your point) to demonstrate proper spirit when scoring.
Target Areas:
- Head — front and sides, up to 45° from center line (Men-bu)
- Right wrist — can be struck anytime
- Left wrist — only when both hands are at or above chest height
- Body — right and left sides above the belt
- Thrusts — allowed to face or chest only, executed carefully
Fouls / Illegal Techniques
- Strikes to the back of the head or spine
- Intentionally sweeping or tripping an opponent
- Holding or grabbing the opponent’s body or weapon
- Wasting time or stalling
- Using unnecessary or excessive force
Out of Bounds
- A player is out of bounds if one foot completely crosses outside the ring or if any body part or weapon braces outside the court line.
- Competitors out of bounds cannot score but may be scored upon if at least one foot remains inside the ring.
- It is illegal to push an opponent out of bounds. If this occurs, the player pushed out is not penalized.
Warnings:
Warnings are divided into three categories
Illegal Technique Warnings:
A warning will be awarded for any intentional strikes to the illegal areas, strikes with excessive contact, or use of an illegal technique
- First warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second warning – One (1) point awarded to other competitor
- Third warning – Competitor will be disqualified
Out of Ring Warnings:
Out of Ring Warnings will be issued to any competitor who steps out of the ring with one foot. Competitors who are out of the ring cannot score, but can be scored upon as long as one foot is still in the ring.
- First Warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second Warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Third Warning – The other competitor will be awarded 1 point
If a competitor is actively pushing opponent out of the ring the out of ring warning will be issued to the competitor that pushes the other competitor out of the ring.
Poor sportsman Conduct Warnings:
Because the purpose of competition is to engage in healthy competition with others to improve and test one’s self, it is in the interest of all that both competitors and spectators conduct themselves within the proper spirit of the arts. With that in mind, a competitor may be penalized for poor conduct from themselves, their coaches/instructors, or their fans.
- First warning – Verbal warning from judges
- Second warning – One (1) point awarded to other competitor
- Third warning – Competitor will be disqualified
At the Judges’ discretion a competitor may be disqualified from competition at any time.
Tournament Grand Champion
During this year’s competition, Grand Champions will be awarded based on the total points earned across all divisions entered. Points are awarded as follows:
Grand Champions will be awarded in the following divisions:
During this year’s competition, Grand Champions will be awarded based on the total points earned across all divisions entered. Points are awarded as follows:
- First Place = 4 points
- Second Place = 3 points
- Third Place = 2 points
- Participation in a division = 1 point
Grand Champions will be awarded in the following divisions:
- Youth 12 & Under
- Teen 13 – 17 Boys
- Teen 13 – 17 Girls
- Adults 18 & Up Under Black Belt
- Adults 18 & Up Black Belts
Top Dojo Award
During this year’s competition, the Top Dojo Award will be given to the school with the highest aggregate points earned by its competitors across all divisions.
Scoring for Top Dojo Award:Points are awarded as follows for each competitor from the school:
Tie Breaker:In the event of a tie, the Top Dojo Award will be given to the school that brought the most students to the tournament.
During this year’s competition, the Top Dojo Award will be given to the school with the highest aggregate points earned by its competitors across all divisions.
Scoring for Top Dojo Award:Points are awarded as follows for each competitor from the school:
- First Place = 4 points
- Second Place = 3 points
- Third Place = 2 points
- Participation in a division = 1 point
Tie Breaker:In the event of a tie, the Top Dojo Award will be given to the school that brought the most students to the tournament.