To become a senior referee in the sport of judo you do need to have participated within the sport and have obtained a minimum grade of 3^rd Kyu and be 17 years of age, unless you have come through the Junior Scheme; which you must be a minimum of 16yrs of age held a current Level 3 for 6 months and be a 3rd Kyu with a current British Judo Licence.

You can either attend a referee course running within the Area or at your Club, where you will be given information relating to the British Judo Association Rules and have a practical refereeing session on the tatami. You will need to take a theory paper which covers general questions relating to the rules. If you successfully pass the theory paper you will take the practical element of the referee examination at a senior event.   

Alternatively, you may wish to ‘practise at refereeing’ to sample what it involves    therefore; you have the opportunity to become a “provisional referee”.  You must be a 17yrs of age and a minimum grade of 3^rd Kyu.  You will referee on the mat with two senior referee’s (at all times) who must be a minimum referee grade of National ‘C’. You can practise at gradings, club invitations events and if you feel confident enough and your senior referee has the appropriate level of event i.e.: red belt rumble you may also practise your refereeing skills there.

You may if you wish do both – attend a course and then become a “provisional referee” prior to your practical examination if you wish to become an Area Referee. As a provisional referee there is no entrance examination but you must have the authority of the Director of Referee’s. It is recommended to attend either a course or Introduction to the Rules at your Club prior becoming a ‘provisional referee’.  

You may only be a “provisional referee” for a period of 6 months, which maybe extended in exceptional circumstances if a suitable event does not become available for an examination.   

Refereeing allows you the opportunity to extend your knowledge of judo and see the technical aspect of judo from a different perspective.  Refereeing has its own unique rewards, not only on a personal level but it is also satisfying to know that you are part of the continuing development of a sport which is allowing children and adults the chance to participate and be successful at their own level, whether it be gradings, club, area, national or ultimately international events.

There are many aspects of judo – you will be surprised how much you will gain from becoming a referee – the least you will gain is a greater understanding of the rules!

If you are interested in becoming a “provisional referee” you must apply in writing to:- Elaine Down - Director of Refereeing  40 Windsor Avenue  Hillingdon  Middlesex  UB10 9AU or email:- refereeing@nhcjudo.co.uk.