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Terms & Competition Rules
This page explains the main rules, safety expectations and competition format for the ZKS Summer Competition 2026.
For many students, the competition also forms part of their belt promotion, so this page is designed to help parents and competitors understand what to expect before the day.
Age Group Breakdown
Events and rules vary slightly depending on your child’s class group.
Mini Ninjas
Ages: 5–7 (sch year Reception - 2)
- Focus on participation, confidence, and basic skills
- Light contact sparring only
- No submissions in grappling
- Referees will guide and support throughout
Junior MA
Ages: 7–11 (sch year 3 - 6)
- Controlled sparring with scoring
- Grappling includes positions and pins
- No submissions
- Emphasis on control and technique
Teen MA
Ages: 11+ (sch year 7 - 11)
- More advanced sparring and grappling
- No deliberate head contact (referee may allow accidental contact)
- Controlled submissions allowed in grappling
- Students are expected to have full protective equipment
General Rules
- All competitors must follow instructions from coaches and referees at all times.
- Competitors must remain in the designated area unless given permission to leave.
- If a competitor feels unwell or injured, they must inform a member of staff immediately.
- Please ensure your child brings water and any snacks they may need.
Safety & Equipment
- All students must wear their gi jacket and correct belt.
- Gum shields are mandatory for all sparring events.
- Gloves and shin/foot guards are required for sparring.
- Teen MA: Students should wear shin guards and are strongly expected to bring their own pair for the competition.
- Students should remove all jewellery and keep nails short.
- Failure to follow equipment requirements may result in not being able to compete.
Emergency: In the event of an emergency, our team will take responsibility for all competitors. Please follow staff instructions at all times.
Sparring (Kumite)
Sparring is strictly controlled and designed to be safe and respectful.
- Only light / touch contact is allowed.
- Techniques must be controlled at all times.
- No sweeps, takedowns, or excessive force.
- No deliberate head contact.
Scoring
- 1 point – Controlled body techniques
Not Allowed
- Deliberate strikes to the head or face
- Uncontrolled or wild techniques
- Excessive contact
Warnings & Disqualification
- Accidental contact to the head may be allowed at the referee’s discretion with no warning.
- Repeated contact to the head will result in warnings.
- 1st warning – Verbal warning
- 2nd warning – Point awarded to opponent
- 3rd warning – Disqualification
- Serious contact or dangerous behaviour may result in immediate disqualification.
Grappling
- Matches focus on control, position, and safe technique.
- Tapping (hand, foot, or verbal) ends the match immediately.
- No neck cranks, spinal pressure, or dangerous techniques.
Scoring (Simplified)
- Points are awarded for takedowns, control positions, and pins.
- Teen MA only: Submission (tap) results in an immediate win. Submissions are not used in younger age groups.
Spectator Rules
- No coaching or shouting instructions during matches.
- Respect all competitors, coaches, and officials.
- Abusive language or behaviour will result in removal from the venue.
- Spectators must remain outside the competition area unless invited.
Referee Decisions
- All referee and judge decisions are final.
- Matches may be stopped early for safety reasons.
- This includes injury, excessive contact, repeated rule breaks, or unsafe behaviour.
Competition Format
- Where possible, all competitors will have at least two matches.
- Brackets may include byes depending on numbers.
- Medals and results contribute towards grading and progression.