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USMTA - Tournament Style Muay Thai Competition

Copyright Protected by the United States Muay Thai Association -20th November 2011

UNITED STATES MUAY THAI ASSOCIATION TOURNAMENT STYLE MUAY THAI COMPETITION

These Rules were designed and developed for use by the United States Muay Thai Association

The Native American League, the League of Nations and other leagues and divisions Incorporated in the USMTA

Produced and written for the USMTA Inc. Arjarn Ric Sniffen E.V.P. USMTA, Kru Robin Sniffen Gen. Sec. NAL

UNITED STATES MUAY THAI ASSOCIATION - NATIVE AMERICAN LEAGUE

Written and Developed by Arjarn Clint Heyliger, Arjarn Ric Sniffen,. All rights reserved 2011

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FIGHTERS Fighter’s Eligibility: No physical disability. Must be at least 5 years old with parental/guardian and trainer permission. Minimum weight: 45 pounds. Must be free of drugs or stimulants, either before or after the fight. Any user will be disqualified and eliminated from competitions for a minimum of 6 months. Fighter’s Pre-fight Requirements: Must read all rules prior to weigh-in. Must attend Pre Fight Rules Meeting All fighters must be examined and certified fit by a licensed doctor. STRIKING & CLINCHING RULES Punches: All punches of boxing are allowed to the body and to the head. This would include the jab, cross, hook, uppercut, overhand, and spinning back fist. Elbows are allowed below the collar. Elbows: Elbows are not permitted above the collar. Elbows traveling at either 6 O'clock and 12 o'clock are not permitted. Knees: Knees are allowed to the body and legs (above the knee). “Checking” the opponents kicking leg with a knee is allowed. No knees directly to the knee are allowed, only above the knee. You CANNOT pull the head down into a knee strike. A knee strike to the head of an opponent ducking is at the fault of the competitor ducking into the knee and no points will be deducted. Kicks: All types of kicks are allowed to the head and body. The bottom, top, side, and instep (except in the case of a leg sweep) of the foot are allowed for kicks to the head and body, except for kicks (i.e., sweeping kicks) to the leg or ankle. Round kicks are allowed to both the inside and outside of the legs, both above and below the knee. No kicks directly to the (front or side of) knee are allowed. Sweeps (with the instep of the foot) are not allowed, while holding onto the opponent. The top of the foot and shin are allowed for round kicks to ankle. Clinching: All strikes in a clinch (i.e., punches, knees, and kicks) defined under the Striking and Clinching Rules are allowed. The head may not be pulled down passed the hip to apply a knee strike. Throws with one step (e.g., dump or spin) using the arm, and knees from the clinch are allowed. A fighter can spin or pull with arms from the clinch to throw. Throws using the legs (without the hip) from the clinch are allowed only if the leg clears immediately after the opponent is pulled or spun. In other words, a fighter may spin or pull and opponent over the inside or outside of his leg, as long as the leg (i.e., foot) is raised off the ground and clears out of the way.



Over the hip throws, such as in Judo, Jujitsu, Karate, San Shou, etc. are not allowed. Lifting an opponent off the ground to throw is not allowed. Tripping or sweeping an opponent is not allowed. Intentionally falling on top of the opponent is not allowed. FOULS AND STRIKES VIOLATING THE RULES Biting, eye gouging, spitting, or head butting. Wrestling, back or arm locks or any similar judo or wrestling hold. Hip throws, lifting, sweeping with the instep of the foot, or tripping. Throws using the hip or a planted foot or leg. Deliberately falling on his opponent or stepping on his opponent. Holding the ropes for any reason. Swearing or the use of abusive language during the match. Striking an opponent after the referee has ordered the match to stop for any reason. Striking a fallen opponent. Note: A knock-down is considered when more than two body contacts to the ring floor are made. In other words, any part of the body other than a fighter’s two feet that makes contact will be considered a “slip” or a “knock-down” by the referee. Deliberately striking the groin area. A competitor who has been hit in the groin, may request a 5 minute break before continuing the match. To be penalized by the deduction of 1 point for each time committed. CLASSIFICATION OF WEIGHT DIVISIONS Junior & Amateur Tournament Muay Thai Weight Classes for Youth

Youth Atom weight Youth Flyweight Youth Straw weight Youth Bantamweight Youth Featherweight Youth Lightweight Youth Welterweight Youth Middleweight Youth Cruiser Weight Youth Heavy Weight



Muay Thai Weight Classes for Men, Women and Youth

Junior Flyweight Flyweight Junior Bantamweight Bantamweight Junior Featherweight Featherweight Junior Lightweight Lightweight Junior Welterweight Welterweight Junior Middleweight Middleweight Super Middleweight Light Heavyweight Cruiserweight Heavyweight Super Heavyweight Maximum Weight

CLASSIFICATION OF FIGHTING CLASSES CLASS A – Having seven or more fights; or 3 years and 6 months of training or more. No headgear. No shin guards. Ankle braces are allowed. Elbow below neck line is permitted, but there is no 12 to 6 strike. CLASS B – Having 2-6 fights; or 18 months up to 3 and half years of training. Headgear mandatory for all competitors under the age of 16 years of age. Fighters and trainers over 16 years of age must agree. Shin guards optional. CLASS C – Having 0-1 fights; or 0 up to 18 months of training. Headgear is mandatory. Shin guards are mandatory. YOUTH AGE CLASSIFICATION - Class C-Y. Juniors 5 to 17 years of age. Class CY-1 5-6 years of age. Class CY-2 7-9 years of age Class CY-3 10-12 years of age Class CY-4 13-15 years of age Class CY-5 16-17 years of age



ROUNDS Three rounds of elimination tournament style. Adults are 1.5 minutes per round, one minute rest between rounds (if three fighters or more in the same Weight Division and Class Category). If it is only one fight elimination with the same weight and class division, it will be 2 minutes per round, three rounds, one minute rest between bouts. Youth are 1 minute per round, one minute rest between rounds (if three fighters or more in the same weight and class category). If it is only one fight elimination with the same weight and class division, it will be 1.5 minutes per round, three rounds, one minute rest between bouts. Competitors will be given a minimum of 45 minutes between each elimination bracket of competition. Before progressing from one bracket to another in the competition. Championship Bouts shall consist of 5 rounds each round being 2 minutes, one minute rest between rounds. Youth Championship Bouts shall consist of 5 rounds each being 1 minute, one minute rest between rounds. COMPETITION GLOVES Only gloves certified by a person designated by the United States Muay Thai Association are allowed to be used in any match. Boxing glove requirements: Glove usage should correspond to the following weight divisions: The weight of the leather shall not be more than 10 ounce glove weight, which should always be in good condition. The laces are to be tied at the back of the wrist band and secured with tape. The weight of the leather for the Youth Divisions from ages 5 years old to 12 years old shall be no more then 8 ounce glove weight. Gloves shall be in good condition with the laces tied to the back of the wrist band and secured with tape. To ensure compliance with the regulations, all gloves will be inspected by a person designated by the United States Muay Thai Association prior to the fight. HEADGEAR AND SHIN/INSTEPS GUARDS Only headgear and shin/insteps Guards certified by a person designated by the United States Muay Thai Association are allowed to be used in any match. Headgear and shin instep requirements Headgear which has Extra Check and Chin Protection are not permitted. NO FOAM Headgear will be permitted as in use in Point Karate. Headgear must be properly secured, and if the headgear comes off during bout more then once in a round a point will be deducted. Shin/instep Guards must be in good condition and properly secured to both the calf, ankle and foot. Shin/instep guards may not be made of any metal parts. BANDAGES & HANDWRAPS In all weight classes, the bandages on each contestant’s hands shall be restricted to soft gauze type cloth not more than thirteen yards in length and two inches in width, held in place by not more than ten feet of surgeon’s tape, one inch in width for each hand. The bandages shall be evenly distributed across the hand. Plastic or plaster types are strictly prohibited.



Adhesive tape shall be placed directly on each hand for protection near the wrist. The tape may cross the back of the hand three times and extend to cover and protect the knuckles when the hand is clenched to make a fist. Bandages and tapes shall be placed on contestant's hands in the dressing room and must be inspected by the inspector, a person designated by the United States Muay Thai Association. Under no circumstances are gloves to be placed on the hands of a contestant until checked by the inspector, a person designated by the United States Muay Thai Association. APPEARANCE AND ATTIRE Only Muay Thai boxing shorts are to be worn. There will be No Boxing shorts, Grappling shorts, Gi’s, or MMA attire. Groin protectors must be worn underneath the shorts. Visible groin protectors are prohibited. The Mongkol (Thai head band) should be worn when performing the Wai Kru ritual (paying respect to one's teacher), prior to the match start. Amulets are only to be worn on the arm or waist and covered by material to avoid injury. Single neoprene joint supporters or bandages/braces are allowed to be worn on the elbow, knee, or ankle to prevent sprains, however insertion of a shin guard, etc, is not allowed. Decorations or jewelry and metal (e.g., metal braces/supports) are not allowed to be worn. Body grease, gels, balms or lotions may not be applied. Vaseline may be applied to the facial area at ringside in the presence of an inspector, referee, or a person designated by the United States Muay Thai Association. Any contestant applying anything prior to this could be penalized a point or disqualified. Any infringement to the dress code may result in the fighter's disqualification. In the case of any problem with the boxing gloves themselves, the referee may temporarily halt the match until they are corrected. A fighter may not wear any equipment that does not pass the inspector, referee or a person designated by the United States Muay Thai Association approval. WEIGH-IN The fighter shall be weighed without clothes, no later than 3 hours prior to the match. If the fighter is over weight at the time of the weigh-in, he may reweigh again. Prior to the weigh-in, all fighters must be examined and certified fit by a licensed doctor. WAI KRU Prior to the start of the first round, both fighters may perform the Wai Kru (paying respect to the teacher), accompanied by the appropriate Thai traditional music (provided by the fighter). SECONDS No person other than the contestants and referee shall enter the ring, during a bout. The referee may, in their discretion, stop a contest if an unauthorized person enters the ring, during a round. Two seconds are allowed to attend the fighter. There may be no loud yelling or profanity from anyone working the corner. Any violation of the rules by the seconds or the fighter may result in the boxer's disqualification. During the match, the seconds must stay in the designated area. Prior to the start of each round they will remove all towels, water bottles, etc out of the ring area. During the round break, the seconds will ensure that their boxer is properly attired. In case of any problem they shall inform the referee immediately. A fighter getting knocked out of a ring and onto the floor must get back into the ring within twenty seconds without assistance from anyone working their corner.



The seconds shall ensure that the ring floor is kept dry to prevent any slipping. The seconds must wear a proper shirt that bears his camp or gym's logo or emblem. The seconds are forbidden to direct bad or insulting language at the fighter or injure him either during or after the fight. In a championship match, 3 seconds are allowed but only 2 are allowed in the ring at any one time during the round break. JUDGES AND REFEREES All Officials shall be Certified by the American Muay Thai Judge and Referee Association AMTJRA and shall be classified as either Class A, B or C Officials. All Officials shall carry with them to all USMTA Sanctioned Events their AMTJRA Identification Card and Officials Passport, which will be used to register the Events that they have Officiated. All Officials shall be in the attire required by the AMTJRA and/or the USMTA. Each match will consist of three judges and one referee. The prime duty of the referee is to ensure the safety of the fighters to the maximum degree. The referee shall ensure the following: Fairness in the application of the rules and regulations to all parties. No impoliteness in manner or speech either to the fighters or the audience. Close supervision of the match. Protection of a weaker fighter against serious injury. Inspection of the boxing gloves and ankle socks Ensure both fighters shake hands prior to the first and final rounds. For a championship or title defense fight the referee must inform the fighters and their seconds of the rules and regulations governing the fight. This is to be done in the dressing room, prior to the fight itself. Three verbal orders are recognized: "STOP" when ordering the fighters to stop fighting. "BREAK" when ordering the fighters to separate. When the fighters are ordered to "BREAK", both must step back one step before continuing to fight. "FIGHT" when ordering the fighters to continue the match. The referee shall use the correct signal to ensure a fighter understands any rule infringement. At the match end, he will collect the score sheets from each of the three judges and indicate the winner to the audience, by raising that fighter’s hand. The score sheets will then be handed to a person designated by the United States Muay Thai Association. For a championship match, the referee will collect the score sheets from the judges at the end of each round, inspect and submit them to a person designated by the United States Muay Thai Association in addition to raising the winner's hand after the result announcement. Should it be necessary to stop the match or penalize a fighter, he will immediately advise the reason to a person designated by the United States Muay Thai Association after making the announcement. The referee is forbidden to give a verbal count or warning that gives either an unfair advantage or disadvantage to any fighter. Referee's Duties: To stop the match immediately if he considers that one fighter is significantly more skilled or stronger than the other. To stop the match immediately when a fighter is in difficulties or is injured.



To stop the match immediately if he considers that one or both fighters are faking or not trying their best. To stop the match or warn the fighter for committing a foul or breaking the rules. To check the eyes and communicate to the fighter who is given an 8-count. The fighter must communicate verbally to continue and bring his/her hands up before continuing. To immediately disqualify a fighter who defiantly breaks the rules, injures or shows any aggression to the referee. To disqualify both the fighter and his seconds if his seconds deliberately break the rules or do not follow his directions. To disqualify any fighter who intentionally or accidentally causes a foul. To stop the match if he considers that a fighter having received a count is unable to effectively continue the match. To disallow any advantage to a fighter who intentionally fouls in any way. Rule Infringement Warnings: Prior to giving a warning for rule infringement, the referee shall stop the fight, use the correct warning signal to ensure the fighter’s understanding and then indicate the offending fighter to the judges. Any fighter, who is so indicated or warned 2 times or more, may be disqualified. In the event of a serious rule infringement, the referee's decision is final. Count Procedure For A Boxer Falling Out of The Ring: If a fighter falls through the ring ropes, the referee shall order his opponent to stand in the other corner and if the fighter remains outside the ropes, the referee shall start to count. (A count to 10). If a fighter falls out of the ring, the referee shall count to 20 (20 seconds). When a fall-out takes place, the referee will start counting, however if the fighter returns to the ring before the count ends, he will not be penalized. If anyone prevents the fallen fighter from returning to the ring, the referee shall warn such person or stop the fight if he continues his action. If both fighters fall out of the ring, the referee shall start counting. If one fighter tries to prevent his opponent from returning to the ring before the count ends, he will be warned or disqualified. If both fighters fall out of the ring, the referee shall start counting, the one that returns to the ring before the count ends, will be considered the winner. If neither fighter can, the result will be considered a draw. TIME KEEPER AND ANNOUNCER Seating for the timekeeper and announcer will be located next to the ring. The timekeeper must keep precisely, the timing of each round and the breaks, following the referee's instructions to start or stop. The following procedures are to be used: A 10 seconds warning is to be given prior to the start of each round, to enable the seconds to clear the ring. A bell is used to signal the start and end of each round. To deduct the break time as per the referee’s instructions. Ensure all timings are correct by using both a watch and stop clock. In the case of a fighter receiving the count during rounds 1-4 and the round time ends (3 minutes), the bell should be rung immediately after the referee finishes the count and orders the fighters to continue. In the final round, the bell should be rung immediately when the round timing passes 3 minutes, even if the referee is still counting.



TYPES OF BOUT RESULTS A Knock-Out (K.O.) is awarded when the opponent is knocked down and unable to continue within the 10 second count. A Technical Knock-Out (T.K.O.) is awarded: Referee stops bout because contestant can no longer defend themselves; or Ringside physician advises referee to stop bout; or When an injury as a result of a legal maneuver is severe enough to terminate the bout. When a fighter cannot continue the match after the break. On the doctor's recommendation, when the referee is unsure whether a fighter can continue the match due to injury or being seriously weakened. Both fighter are seriously injured and cannot continue the match; if less than three rounds: a draw is declared; if three rounds have been reached, individual score decides. Receiving a count three times in the same round and unable to continue the match. Decision via scorecards: Unanimous: when all three judges score the bout for the same contestant. Split decision: when two judges score the bout for one contestant and one judge scores for the opponent. Majority decision: when two judges score the bout for the same contestant and one judge scores the bout a draw. Draws: Unanimous: when all three judges score the bout a draw; Majority: when two judges score the bout a draw; Split when all three judges score it differently and the score total results in a draw. Disqualification: when an injury sustained during competition as a result of an intentional foul severe enough to terminate the contestant. Forfeit: when a contestant fails to begin competition or prematurely ends the contest for reasons other than injury or the corner indicates a forfeit. Technical draw: When an injury sustained during competition is a result of an intentional foul, which causes the injured contestant to be unable to continue and the injured contestant is even or behind on the score cards at the time of the stoppage. When an injury sustained during competition is result of an unintentional foul, which causes the injured contestant to be unable to continue and the sufficient number of rounds have been completed with the results of the scorecards being a draw. Technical decision: when the bout is prematurely stopped due to an injury and a contestant is leading on the scorecards. No contest: when a contestant is stopped prematurely due to accidental injury, malfunction in equipment, and a sufficient number of rounds have not been completed to render a decision via the scorecards. SCORING PRACTICE. Method Of Scoring: The maximum score for each round is 10 points, the loser scoring either 9, 8 or 7 and so on. A drawn round will be scored as 10 points for both boxers. The winner and loser in an indecisive round will score 10:9 respectively. The winner and loser in a decisive round will score 10:8 respectively. The winner and loser in an indecisive round with a single count will score 10:8 respectively.



The winner and loser in a decisive round with a single count will score 10:7 respectively. The boxer scoring 2 counts against his opponent will score 10:7. Any boxer who commits a foul will have points deducted from his score. Standard scoring practice: Scoring from a strike: Points will be awarded for a correct Muay Thai style, combined with hard and accurate strikes. Points will be awarded for aggressive and dominating Muay Thai skill. Points will be awarded for a fighter actively dominating his opponent. Points will be awarded for the use of a traditional Muay Thai style of defense and counter-attack. Points will be deducted from a boxer who fouls or breaks the rules. Non scoring strikes: A strike which is against the rules. A strike in defense against the leg or arm of an opponent. A weak strike. Fouls: The judges will deduct points for any foul as directed by the referee. Any foul observed by the judges but not by the referee, will be penalized accordingly. KNOCK DOWN. Definition – Any part of the body touching the floor except the feet. Leaning against the ropes in a state of unconsciousness. Knocked out of the ring. Inability to defend himself. During a count, the referee will direct the opposing fighter to stand in the opposite corner. If he does not, the referee shall stop the count until he does so and then continue. The match will not continue until directed by the referee. The count interval will be at I second intervals, from 1 to 10. During the count, the referee will signal, with his hand, to ensure that the fighter receiving the count understands. After the count the referee will check the eyes and communicate to the fighter who is given an 8-count. The fighter must communicate verbally and bring his/her hands up before continuing. A fighter who receives three 8-counts in one round will immediately lose on receiving the third 8-count. A fighter who receives a count and cannot continue the match prior to a count of 8 will lose immediately on receiving a count of 10. If both fighters fall down, the referee will direct the count to the last one that fell. If both fighters receive a 10 count, a draw will be declared. Should the fighters lean against each other whilst sitting up, the referee will stop counting at that time. If one of the fighters subsequently falls down again, the referee will continue the count. A fighter not ready to fight again after a break when the bell rings, will receive a count, unless caused by a problem with his attire.



RING or COMPETITION AREA Tournament Style Competition will be held in a Ring or Floor Ring. The Ring must be inspected prior to competition being held by a staff member of the United States Muay Thai Association. The Ring shall consist of a minimum of 4 ropes. The Ring Matting must be a minimum of 1 3/4" Thick dense foam with a Canvas Covering. Any blood or body fluids that are on the covering or canvas during a bout MUST be properly cleaned prior to the start of the next bout.

**SPECIAL NOTES REGARDING TOURNAMENT STYLE MUAY THAI **

Champions of Tournaments are NOT Recognized as Weight Class Champions of the United States Muay Thai Association or League of Nations but only as the Champion of the Tournament held. USMTA Tournaments will consist of State, Regional, National and International Tournaments. USMTA National Tournaments and International Tournaments will be held in an area that will best meet the needs of all competitors and will be granted to the Event Promoter which provides the greatest response of competitors and contributions back to the USMTA. USMTA Tournament Competitors MUST be either a Member of the USMTA or have paid their USMTA enrollment before being permitted to compete. Membership is $15.00 Yearly. USMTA Tournament Sanctioning Fees shall consist of $55.00 General Sanctioning Fee and $2.00 per Bout held during the Tournament to cover the paperwork cost for a large event. All Competitors who compete in State, Regional, National and International Tournaments will have their Fighter Profile and Stats listed on the USMTA website under USMTA TOURNAMENT Champions. A DVD or Video of the COMPLETE TOURNAMENT must be provided to the USMTA upon completion of the Event. A copy of the Fight Card, Fighter Registration, Waivers forms, and a copy of Judges Score Cards including the Fight and Post Fight Physicals must be sent to the USMTA Head Office along with the DVD or Video as required by the National Director of the AMTJRA ** SPECIAL NOTES REGARDING TOURNAMENT OFFICIALS ** Referees shall be paid a minimum of $5.00 per Round for Tournaments. Judges shall be paid a minimum of $150.00 for Class C Official Judge, $200.00 for a Class B Official Judge and $250.00 for a Class A Official Judge. Sanctioning Officers shall be paid a minimum of $200.00 for Tournaments. All Officials traveling more then 150 miles will have their travel expenses reimburse but only with a copy of the fuel and food receipt. The expenses will be doubled to cover cost both ways, or have the cost of a Motel covered by the Promoter.



Ring Physicians shall be paid a minimum of $500 for Tournaments. Seconds shall be needed during Tournament competition in order to grant Officials a period of rest during competition, the cost of the second will be paid by the Official he or she is working in place of at a cost of a minimum $5.00 per bout. Referee Seconds shall be paid a minimum of $15.00 per Bout. If a second steps in for an Official he or she MUST remain as the Official for the entire Bout and must sign the score sheet. *** REQUIRED TO HOLD USMTA SANCTIONED TOURNAMENT *** Sanctioning Request Form Prepaid Sanctioning Fee $55.00 Copy of Event Insurance List of Competitors Signed Copy of the Rules and Regulations by the Event Promoters Copy of Promoters License Copy of Matchmakers License Photo of Awards being used for Champions

UNITED STATES MUAY THAI ASSOCIATION - 2013 AMENDMENT UPDATE

USMTA Inc, 2013 All rights reserved

USMTA Amendment 36: Use of Elbow Pads

As with other martial arts know around the world, the use of the elbow in the Thai martial arts of Muay Thai, Muay Boran, Muay Chaa’t Cherk and other Thai martial arts continues today. It has always been part of Thailand’s combative sport and martial art for centuries and since Muay Thai etc., was introduced to the west via Europe etc., the use of the elbow is still continued… In the regulations manual of the USMTA we continue this heritage. In both the Professional and Amateur Muay Thai divisions the use of the elbow has never been removed from training or competition in the sport. Today, the safety aspects of the elbow use be it in a somewhat protective form, are allowed in the Amateur Muay Thai divisions within the USMTA, All safety equipment including the use of standard sport elbow pads promoted by respectable companies known within the combative industry are suggested. As long as the State athletic or State sport regulatory body agrees to the use of padded elbows within its official boundaries, and that the level of the competitor is over the age of 16 years of age, and within the required “B Class” status or higher of the USMTA’s guidelines, the use of elbow pads is acknowledge by the association. All fighters competing with elbow pads, most both agree to the bout, their corner men or coaches or trainers must also agree to the bout and acknowledge that both competitors are at a competent level. (Fighters Passports may be required). It is suggested but not mandatory that fighters bring their own elbow pads in a clean and sanitized manner, and that Event promoters may be required to stock elbow pads in the same manner during an event. The sanctioning body must be notified in advance that elbows will be used at an event Coaches, trainers who knowingly place a fighter at risk will be placed under a ban from any USMTA sanctioned event, for a period recommended by the association. The state sports or athletic regulatory body will be informed of this ban and of the risk the fighters were knowingly placed in. Other action may be required. The USMTA takes very seriously the protection of its fighters and competitors, failure to apply all regulations that require safety equipment and or the application of safety formats for Amateur or Professional competitors on the part of the promoter, the coach or the fighter will not be tolerated.

Further amendments may apply….


USMTA TOURNAMENTS Championship (tournament) Each year the United States Muay Thai Association conducts Five American Tournament Championship Cup(s) events. The Event sites are selected with the approval of the USMTA Board of Directors. These tournaments are rotated around the United States. The USMTA runs these tournaments each year in each of chosen States.

Once a State has been selected for a tournament, the USMTA State Representatives are assigned to make sure the Promoters are given the responsibility of arranging for volunteers and hospitality. The promoter, at its option, may assign some of the responsibility to local units, but the State Representatives retains overall accountability to the USMTA.

The USMTA State Director & Representatives will assist in the coordination in all aspects of the tournament and is the liaison for the USMTA with the host Event promoter. The tournament Operations Manual for Tournament Chairpersons is available from the USMTA Meeting Planner. The purpose of the manual is to delineate the various areas of responsibility and financial obligation for the host promoter and the USMTA in order to provide USMTA members with an enjoyable and memorable event. The division of responsibility for a tournament is as follows:

USMTA provides the Event Officials, Event Sanctioning and awards staff and equipment necessary for the technical operation of the tournament.

The host Promoter is primarily responsible for arranging all entertainment and hospitality and for providing volunteers.

Schedule of Events Each day of the tournament there maybe at least two Championship bouts scheduled. There may also be non-championship bouts. USMTA is responsible for scheduling all events except charity and national-rated events which are set by the USMTA Board of Directors. For regional-rated events, input from the host organization is requested to insure that local preferences are considered.

Smoking Policy Smoking is not permitted at a tournament. Distinctly separate smoking areas will be provided at tournament as allowed by state and local ordinances. These areas will not be the hallways immediately outside the venue area, near rest rooms or snack bars or in any area where non-smokers may be exposed. Zero Tolerance Policy The purpose of the Zero Tolerance (ZT) policy is to create a much more pleasant atmosphere in our tournaments. This is an attempt to eradicate unacceptable behavior in order to make the tournament of more enjoyable for all. The following are some examples of behavior which will not be tolerated: badgering, rudeness, insinuations, intimidation, profanity, threats, or violence; negative comments concerning opponents’ gloating over good results; constant and gratuitous lessons and analyses and loud and disruptive arguing with a director’s ruling. If a fighter at the ring behaves in an unacceptable manner, the director must be called immediately. Annoying behavior, embarrassing remarks, or any other conduct which might interfere with the enjoyment of the tournament is specifically prohibited. Electronic Equipment For all tournament events, electronic devices, including but not limited to, phones, cameras, and others capable of sending or receiving electronic communication are excluded from the ring areas during any session of bouts, except for press related staff. This does not apply to health related equipment.



The following applies to all bouts at a tournament event. Except for health-related equipment, or by permission of the Director-in-Charge of the tournament cell phones, audible pagers or similar equipment may not be operated or operable in any manner in the ring area during a bout. Any such equipment must not be visible during the session. Sponsoring organizations of other USMTA Sanctioned Events are encouraged to adopt a similar policy. These restrictions apply to all members and coaches. A violation of any of the restrictions above may result in a disciplinary penalty for the first offense. A second offense will result in disqualification from the event. Fighters violating this policy will be removed from the area for the remainder of the event.

Scheduling of tournaments • A Sanctioning Application to hold a tournament must be submitted to the USMTA Tournament Department One (1) year in advance in order to protect the dates. If a sanction is not submitted at One (1) year in advance, the State may lose its claim to the dates. • A State that holds a tournament on the same dates and at the same sites/areas two out of three years will be placed on the traditional date list for Regional’s. Easter week and other fluctuating holidays are noted as exceptions. The dates are protected except for one day at either the beginning or end of the tournament. A tournament with a two or more day encroachment on a traditional date tournament will not be sanctioned. The dates are protected except for one day at either the beginning or end of the tournament. A tournament with a two or more day encroachment on a traditional date tournament will not be sanctioned. The list is available on the Coordinators Bulletin Board. Easter week is noted as an exception. • If a State has a traditional annual date but the site/area does not remain constant, it is no longer a traditional date. • Regional’s in the schedule for a specific date and location that move their location more than 50 miles within one year from this date will be subject to the “New Tournament Rules” (in other words this move will be treated as a new tournament). • Tentative tournament schedules for the current year and following years will be posted on the USMTA website, and updated daily. An updated list noting additions and deletions will be posted on the website. • A Regional appearing on the traditional date list which is not held for two years within a three year period will be removed from the list. • A Regional may be scheduled and sanctioned at any time provided the tournament can be included in the tournament listing in the USMTA BULLETIN at least two months prior to the tournament and all rules and regulations regarding conflicts are met. • A Regional scheduled and sanctioned more than a year in advance takes precedence over a Sectional regardless of when the Sectional was sanctioned. • All tournament sanction applications must be submitted electronically. • A sanction application to hold a Regional will be acknowledged immediately upon receipt by the USMTA Tournament Department. All applications received must be approved by the Regions Tournament Coordinator. • Approval for Regional sanction applications will be sent three years out or immediately upon approval if received less than three years out.

Tournament Conflicts • If the USMTA Tournament Department anticipates a possible conflict with a tournament already sanctioned or a Traditional Date tournament the Department should immediately notify the person applying for the sanction, the Tournament Coordinator and the Director. • If a Tournament Coordinator believes that a tournament request is in conflict with one of its tournaments, he must first notify USMTA Tournament Division and endeavor to resolve the conflict with the region in question. The Director(s) from the regions involved in a possible conflict will be notified by Management of the possible conflict as soon as Management is aware of it. • An Arbitration Panel is established. All panel members will be Directors or their designees.



The Panel will consist of five people, two from each zone without the conflict and one from the zone with the conflict. No one from the regions involved may sit on the Panel. If there is a conflict between two regions or more in different zones, three people from the third zone and one from each of the two zones with a conflict will be on the Panel. Again, no one from the Regions involved may be on the Panel. For the selection process, the zonal representatives will pick the members of the Panel from their zones as long as their zone is not involved. The USMTA President or Chairman of the Board will appoint the person from the “conflict” zone. Since the list of Directors is updated each year, the list will be automatically current. For timely sanction applications, if the parties involved cannot resolve the conflict, both applications will be sanctioned with the following proviso: the timely application of a traditional tournament date will take precedence over the timely application of a non-traditional tournament date. In cases where there are a timely and an untimely application: If the Regions with the timely application claims there is a conflict, the Arbitration Panel agrees there is a conflict and the conflict cannot be resolved, the untimely application will not be sanctioned. For equally untimely sanction applications, both applications will be sanctioned. For the purpose of defining “equally untimely,” applications received that would be listed on consecutive bi-weekly updates will be so deemed. The cases where there are non-equal untimely applications will be treated the same as timely/untimely with the earlier application being timely and the other untimely. The Arbitration Panel will make a determination that a conflict exists after a request from Management or a Regions holding, or applying for, a sanction. Decisions will be reached after consulting internal resources, data from involved parties, etc. The decision of the Arbitration Panel will be FINAL.

Tournament Coordinator Every Tournament must have a Coordinator. Sanctioning Applications must be submitted to the USMTA Tournament Department using the online Sanctioning Application or by mail. Applications Prior to approving, check the tentative schedule posted on the USMTA’s Web site for possible conflicts, including adjoining regions(s). If there is a possible conflict with a tournament in an adjoining region, contact their Tournament Coordinator for approval.

Disputes All disputes, protests, claims, differences or controversies relating to any aspect of the Tournament, including, without limitation, Tournament Rules, must be submitted to the Tournament Organizers/Rules Committee no later than twenty-four (24 ) hours following the closing of the Weigh Station or are deemed waived. All such disputes must be presented in writing along with a non-refundable fee of $500 cash. All such disputes shall be decided by the Tournament Organizers/Rules Committee and shall be final and binding upon all parties. Binding Arbitration In the event the Tournament Organizers/Rules Committee cannot render or refuses to render a final and binding decision with respect to any dispute, protest, claim, difference, or controversy under review, the matter shall be resolved by binding arbitration under the commercial arbitration rules of the American Arbitration Association. The decision rendered in arbitration shall be in writing and shall be final and binding upon all parties. The parties shall have no further recourse, except as provided for by the commercial rules of the American Arbitration Association. Once the decision is rendered, it will produce the effect of “res judicata” and the parties shall fully comply with the decision without delay. The Participants specifically waive any right to a trial by judge or jury. Participation The Participants specifically agree and consent to the use of any photograph, motion picture, or audio recording in which they appear or are heard, by the Tournament, for any purpose whatsoever including, but not limited to, resale, advertising, and promotional material without compensation or restriction of any kind.



The Trustees The trustees shall maintain absolute authority in all situations or disputes over the winner of the Cup(s). If one of the existing trustees resigns or drops out, the remaining trustee shall nominate a substitute. Arjarn Heyliger first presented the trophies in 2012 to the United States Muay Thai Association on behalf of the affiliated Leagues. The Association issued more specific rules on how the Cup(s) should be defended and awarded. This was agreed upon by the trustees.

1. The Trustees hereby delegate to the USMTA full authority to determine and amend from time to time the conditions for competition of the Cup(s)s , including the qualifications of contenders, the appointment of officials, the apportionment and distribution of all gate receipts, provided always that the winners of this trophy shall be the acknowledged to the world as Champions.

2. The Trustees agree that during the currency of this agreement they will not acknowledge or accept any challenge for the Cup(s) unless such a challenge is in conformity with the condition specified in paragraph one (1) thereof.

3. The USMTA undertakes the responsibility for the care and safe custody of the Cup(s) including all necessary repairs and alterations to the Cup(s) and sub-structure as may be required from time to time, and further undertakes to insure the Cup(s) for its full insurable value.

4. The USMTA hereby acknowledges itself to be bound to the Trustees in the sum of One Thousand Dollars, which bond is conditioned upon the safe return of the Cup(s) to the Trustees in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, and it is agreed that the USMTA shall have the right to return the trophy to the Trustees at any time.

5. This agreement shall remain in force so long as the USMTA continues to be the United States Muay Thai Association leading Amateur and Professional Competition through its Association as determined by its fighter caliber, and in the event of dissolution or other termination of one of the USMTA’s Leagues, the Cup(s) shall revert to the custody of the trustees.

6. In the event of default in the appointment of a new trustee by the surviving trustee, the "Trustees" will hereby delegate and appoint an officer of the USMTA in Riverdale, New York, to name two new trustees to carry on under the terms of the original trust, and in conformity with this Agreement.

7. And it is further mutually agreed that any disputes arising as to the interpretation of this Agreement or the facts upon which such interpretation is made, shall be settled by an Arbitration Board of three, one member to be appointed by each of the parties, and the third to be selected by the two appointees. The decision of the Arbitration Board shall be final.

Engraving Like all the Cup(s) awarded to the winners of the series, the Cup(s) have an engraved plate with the names of the champion, usually in the form "CHAMPION NAME" "YEAR WON".

Ownership of the Cup(s) The Cup(s) shall remain a tournament Cup(s), and will not become the property of one person, even if won more than once. The Cup(s) is the sole property of the United States Muay Thai Association, with all rights are reserved and as sole ownership belonging to the President of the Association Arjarn Clint Heyliger. The winning competitor shall return the Cup(s) in good order when required by the trustees so that it may be handed over to any other competitor who may win it.

The Cup(s) is automatically awarded to the competitor that wins the title of the previous Cup(s) champion without the need for any other special extra contest. He will also receive a champion silver ring for his efforts. Competitors for the Cup(s) do not have to belong to the association but must register as a competitor in the tournament. A competitor may enter more than one tournament throughout the year in his /her weight class. They may also purchase a silver ring that donates they competed in the event.



School/Camp or training facility The winning competitor will most likely belong to a school or training facility. The Cup(s) is presented to the training facility if that facility or school adheres to the strict requirements established by the association Trustees. If the establishment does not reach the required stipulations of the Trustees an alternative method may be applied.

The facility is required to sign a decree that states their owners of the school or training facility agree to hold the Cup(s) in such a way as to make sure the Cup(s) is kept in a pristine condition for the 10 month duration, according to the regulations. After the 10 month duration the Cup(s) must be returned to the association via its Official State Representative or other Officer directed by the trustees.

Shipping of the Cup(s) The shipping of the Cup(s) must be done in a protective manner to insure no damage will happen to the complete structure of the award. Shipping should be by a reputable shipping company such as Fedex, UPS, USPS. All shipping documents must be signed to make sure a record is kept by both parties. Insurance must be taken with the carrier in the Amount of $ 1500.00 to cover any type of possible damage. Insurance For the duration of the Cup held by an establishment of the winning competitor the Cup(s) must be insured for any damages or “Acts of God”, Fire Flood, Theft or Loss. If the Cup(s) is to be taken from the premises for display purposes, a separate insurance must be taken for ‘traveling” to protect the Cup(s) for any damages caused by transportation. Insurance in the minimum amount of $1500.00 must be kept on the Cup(s) at all time.

USMTA Championship Cup(s) – Recommended Event Ring Area Passes The following should be the ONLY permitted personnel that are permitted a Ring Area Pass during the USMTA Championship Cup(s). a). USMTA Sanctioning Official b). AMTJRA Judges ( 3 ) required per ring c). AMTJRA Referee ( 1 ) required per ring d). Physician

e). Bell Attendant ( 1 ) required per ring f ). Time Keeper ( 1 ) required per ring g). Announcer ( 1 ) required per ring unless a general announcer is used for Event h). Ring Girl ( 1 – 3 ) I). Photographer ( 1 ) permitted per ring area j). Video Recorder ( 1 ) permitted per ring area k). Glove Runner ( 2 ) Red Corner & Blue Corner


United States Muay Thai Association - NAL

USMTA CANCELATION FORM All right reserved 2013

NOCF:23990

USMTA

NOTICE OF CANCELLATION

Notice of event/ venue cancellation must be submitted to the office of the USMTA a minimum of 3 days prior to a scheduled event. A valid reason for the cancelation with subsequent documentation must be included with the cancelation form. The cancellation letter may be faxed or emailed 3 days prior to the event. Posted cancelations must be post marked 3 days prior to an event. No phone calls or verbal cancelations will be accepted. Cancellations past date of event will not be accepted and full sanction fees and registration fees due to the association will continue to be binding. If an event is cancelled on the day of or within the 3 day period, an investigation will be put forward. On the results of the investigation a notice of action by the association will be delivered to the promoter. USMTA Sanctioned certificate #_____________ Date of event:_____________________________________ Name of promotion:______________________________________________________________________ Venue:________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________ Promoter(s)_______________________________ : __________________________________________ Telephone:_______________________________ email: ________________________________________ Reason for cancelation:

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