Kumite Division Rules

The Sparring Division at the Silverado Cup offers two exciting formats for competitors: USA Karate/WKF Sparring and One-Point Sparring. Both formats emphasize skill, strategy, and sportsmanship, providing a dynamic and competitive experience for athletes of all levels.

WKF USA Karate Rules

 

1. Equipment:

   • Approved gloves, foot protectors, mouthguards, and headgear are mandatory.

   • Groin protectors are required for male competitors.

2. Scoring:

   • Valid techniques must demonstrate good form, power, and control.

   • Points are awarded as follows:

     • 1 Point (Yuko): Punch to the body or mid-level kicks.

     • 2 Points (Waza-ari): Kick to the body.

     • 3 Points (Ippon): Kick to the head or scoring with a takedown followed by a technique.

3. Prohibited Actions:

   • Excessive contact, strikes to prohibited areas (e.g., throat, joints), or unsportsmanlike behavior will result in penalties or disqualification.

Match Duration

• Matches typically last 2-3 minutes, depending on the age and rank division.

• In the case of a tie, an additional 1-minute extension may be applied.

Penalties

• Category 1 (Minor): Warnings (e.g., stepping out of bounds, excessive stalling).

• Category 2 (Major): Deduction of points (e.g., excessive contact, dangerous techniques).

• Category 3 (Severe): Disqualification (e.g., intentional injury, disrespectful behavior).

Refereeing

• Matches are overseen by a referee, judges, and a scorekeeper.

• Decisions are final, and protests must follow the official protest procedure outlined in the rules.

Download Full Rules

For a complete and detailed breakdown of the kumite rules, download the official USA Karate Rules document here:
Download USA Karate Rules PDF.

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One-Point Sparring

1. Equipment:

   • Approved gloves, foot protectors, mouthguards, and headgear are mandatory.

   • Groin protectors are required for male competitors.

2. Scoring

   • 1 Point:
     • Properly executed punches (tsuki) to the head or torso.
   • 2 Points:
     • Controlled kicks (geri) to the midsection or chest.
   • 3 Points:
     • Controlled head-level kicks or techniques showing exceptional skill and precision.

   Scoring Criteria

   • Techniques must demonstrate:
     • Good posture and balance.
     • Proper distancing.
     • Clean execution with control.
     • Targeting of allowed scoring zones.

   Penalties

   1. Warnings:
      • Given for minor rule breaches such as accidental contact outside scoring areas or stepping out of bounds.
   2. Point Deductions:
      • Excessive contact.
      • Use of illegal techniques (e.g., strikes to the back, neck, or groin).
      • Unsportsmanlike conduct.
      • Repeated minor infractions.
   3. Disqualification:
      • Repeated dangerous behavior.
      • Intentional illegal strikes.
      • Gross disrespect for rules or opponent.
   4. Boundary Violations:
      • Exiting the ring more than twice results in a point penalty.

   General Guidelines

   • Safety Gear: Competitors must wear approved protective equipment.
   • Match Duration: Competitors aim to achieve the set number of points first or win by the highest score at the end of the match.

Download Full Rules

For a complete and detailed breakdown of the point sparring rules, download the official WKC Point Sparring Rules document here:
Download WKC Point Sparring Rules PDF

Why Compete?

• Test your skills in a competitive yet respectful environment.

• Gain valuable experience and feedback from certified referees and judges.

• Connect with fellow martial artists and build lasting friendships.

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Whether you prefer the strategic depth of WKF USA Karate Sparring or the fast-paced action of One-Point Sparring, the Silverado Cup Sparring Division has something for everyone. Join us and showcase your talent, discipline, and passion for karate!

Let’s spar, compete, and grow together!