Kumite

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.

USA Karate/WKF Sparring

  1. Equipment:

    • Competitors may wear a clean white karate gi, but it is not required. Appropriate martial arts attire is acceptable, provided it is respectful and adheres to event rules.

    • 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).

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.

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

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!