“Where freedom of choice matters”

Courses are run throughout the country. The Chief Referee is Robert Phillips who is a World qualified Referee. He is assisted by several other world, British and FEKO referees. The main qualification courses are at our National Championships in June and September.

Qualifications are for National Referee, National Judge, FEKO Association recognised Referee and FEKO Association recognised Judge. We also have qualifications for Table Officials, who have to understand the Referees signals and the scoring system.

We will be happy to arrange a course in your area for the qualification of your Association members.

Squad members, Coaches and Instructors are invited on all the courses so they may have a greater understanding of the rules.

Many of our referees have  held WKC World and European  qualifications since 1998 and WUKO (now WUKF)  World and European qualifications since 2008. World and European events have been held in Russia, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Serbia, Scotlansd, Romania and Serbia. All costs are paid by FEKO.

How do I  become a Referee?

You attend courses organised by the Chief Referee. These include a detailed study of the current rules and practice sessions on the practical side of refereeing procedures. These are held on a regular basis at different locations.

Is there a lower age limit?

You must be over 21 and must hold the minimum grade of 1st Dan to qualify as a FEKO referee. You can however take the course and qualify as an Association referee at 18 years. As a 1st Kyu, you may qualify as a provisional Judge/Referee.

Do you have to have competed in kumite competition to qualify?  

No, although you will appreciate the competitors views and frustrations better, there is no reason why a non-competitor should not qualify as a referee.

Do I have to pass examinations?

Only if you want to become an active referee. At the end of the course you must pass the theory paper with a minimum score of 80% for Judge, 90% for Referee. The courses are also open to coaches and competitors that want a better understanding of the rules as and when they change.

What will it cost?

FEKO charges £5 for the training and there is a small charge for the examination and the rule book.

Do I receive expenses for attending competitions?

At our National Championships Referees receive £50 and Judges £30.  We also offer expenses to Table Officials