Successful first refresher course for referees and officials

On 12 September 2018, the first refresher course for referees and officials in kickboxing, Thai boxing and MMA (mixed martial arts) took place. Almost all combat sports federations were represented by several referees and officials.

The aim of this course was to allow referees and officials to exchange knowledge and experience about rules and enforcement. The ultimate goal is to pursue uniformity in rules and working methods. Uniformity matters because it allows referees, ring officials and judges to project authority towards athletes, their trainers and coaches, and the public. That is good for the officials, the federation, the promoter, the athlete and the public. And that in turn contributes to wider acceptance of our sport.

During the refresher course, the referees and officials considered the different styles such as kickboxing, Thai boxing and MMA. A distinction was of course made between youth and adults. In addition, knowledge was exchanged on subjects including:

• Prohibited techniques
• Permitted techniques
• The position of a ring official
• Commands (from the ring official)
• The conduct of a judge
• The conduct of coaches
• The social and educational climate

This meeting was organised on the initiative of various experienced officials from different federations. These officials led the meeting themselves. The Dutch Combat Sports Authority supports this initiative and made facilities available for it. All course participants received a certificate of attendance from the VA. The intention is to hold this refresher course annually.