Q: Where can I find parking?  Where is Burnham Pavilion?
A: Stanford maps: General Map including Parking [PDF; 1.6 Mb], Burnham Pavilion.

Q: What should I wear for the training?
A: Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes with non-marking soles such as tennis shoes or TKD shoes. If you would like to spar, then please bring full gear.

Q: Can I get a copy of the Referee Handbook?
A: 2004 Training Seminar Notes by Professor Thackrey (Zip, 1MB), 2003 Training Seminar Notes by Professor Thackrey ( MS Word, 6MB) and 2002 Training Seminar Notes by Professor Thackrey (Acrobat PDF format, 4MB).

Q: What do I need to know about the electronic scoring handgear?
A: Check that the red light is illuminated (indicating strong battery). The handgrip marked Blue goes in your right hand; Red goes in your left hand. We will use differential scoring. For a scoring technique: Pull the trigger with your index finger for a body shot; Push the side button with your thumb for a head shot.

Q: How do I score a double technique? Will the scoring system eliminate "phantom" points?
A: The scoring software utilizes a buffer to register incoming points from the 3 sets of handgear. The Tournament Director sets the duration of this buffer (currently set to 1.0 seconds similar to National tournaments). In order to score a double technique (such as double roundhouse), the judge must wait at least 1.0 seconds before depressing a button to score the second point. This lock-out buffer eliminates phantom points.

Q: What equipment should I bring if I intend to spar at the training seminar?
A: The mandatory equipment comprises:

• Standard white, V-neck taekwondo uniform (black trim for black belts only) in good condition.
• White USTU or WTF chest protector with red and blue scoring zones.
• Foam shin protector and instep pad (white only), and forearm protector (white only).
• Groin protection (required for males), worn under uniform.
• Foam USTU or WTF head protector (white only).
• Mouth guard.

Q: What should I wear for the tournament?
A: Please wear dark trousers (such as slacks) and shoes with non-marking soles such as, preferably, TKD shoes or tennis shoes. You will need to check in at the volunteer desk and receive your Referee/Judge polo shirt for the event.

Q: Can I compete in poomsae and/or sparring and still volunteer as a judge or center referee?
A: Yes. Let Kent Noble know your requirements and we will schedule around those.

Q: Do I need to be USTU certified?
A: USTU certification is a plus but is not required.

Q: I hold a black belt in a style other than WTF. Can I still participate?
A: Yes. The most important requirement is that you know the rules and are competent in acting as a judge or referee.

Q: Is there an age limit in order to participate?
A: Participants should be at least 16 years old (if a black belt) otherwise at least 18 years old (red belt). Referee and judge roles are decided on the basis of abilities, knowledge, and skills.

Q: I am a very experienced referee and would happily help out at the tournament. Due to my experience do I still need to attend either referee training seminar?
A: At the 2002 WTF International Referee Refresher Course and the subsequent U.S. Open, Professor Thackrey noted that even among the world's top referees and officials there are difficulties and controversies with the new Taekwondo competition rules. "The most capable and experienced referees seek more training, not less. We will do our utmost to make the required referee training sessions worth the while of even the most senior in attendance."

Q: I don't mind participating as a corner judge but do I have to be a center referee?
A: No, although you are encouraged to participate in those areas in which you are competent.

Q: I can't make it to either training seminar, can I still help out on the day of the tournament?
A: Please contact Kent Noble (tkdrefereemgr@lists.stanford.edu) and we will discuss the best way for you to participate given your circumstances.

Q: Who is the head referee?
A: Professor Misha Thackrey, California State University Fresno.

Q: Who is the Tournament Director?
A: Head Coach - Program Director, Stanford University Taekwondo Program, Tim Ghormley (tghormley@gostanford.com)

Q: Who do I contact for more information?
A: Please contact Kent Noble (tkdrefereemgr@lists.stanford.edu).

Q: What is the URL of this page?
A: http://tkd.stanford.edu/spropen2004/refs.html.