Tournament Classification

Tournament Classification Overview

Tournament classification in UMA (Unified Martial Arts) is based on the level of competition, number of competitors, and the championships or divisions involved. These classifications help determine the prestige and scale of the event. Here’s a breakdown of the different classes:

1. Class Gold

Event Type: The highest-level tournaments.
Competitions: Includes all World, Regional, and State Championship matches, along with all UMA’s open divisions.
Competitor Level: These tournaments typically attract the largest number of competitors, and the competition level is very high.
Expected Attendance: Based on past events, Class Gold tournaments often host a wide variety of schools and a large number of participants.
Tournament Duration: May be a two-day event.
Divisions: All UMA competition divisions are offered.

2. Class Silver

Event Type: Regional Championship-focused tournaments.
Competitions: Primarily includes Regional Championship matches.
Competitor Level: A step down from Class Gold in terms of size and intensity, but still highly competitive.
Divisions Offered: Check individual tournament listings for which divisions are available.
Tournament Duration: Typically a one-day event, but may vary.

3. Class Bronze

Event Type: Smaller, more intimate events.
Competitions: These tournaments usually involve fewer schools, typically around 5 or 6.
Competitor Level: These events often focus more on seminars followed by tournaments.
Divisions Offered: Primarily Kumite (Point Sparring) and Kata (Forms). These are the only two divisions available in Bronze events.
Tournament Duration: Usually a one-day event.

UMA Championship Titles

UMA hosts three major championship titles:

Regional Championship: Open to competitors from specific regions.
State Championship: Open to competitors who reside in the state they are competing in.
World Championship: The highest honor, held once a year.

Rules and Regulations

Black Belt Verification: Competitors in World and State Championship events who are black belts must provide proof of their black belt ranking to participate.
World Championship: Only one World Championship tournament is held each year.
State Championship Residency Requirement: Competitors must be residents of the state they are competing in for the State Championship.
Event Duration for Class A Gold: Class A Gold tournaments may span two days. Always check tournament listings for confirmation.
Core Events: Every tournament will feature two core events: Point Sparring (Kumite) and Open Forms (Kata). Additional divisions or events may be listed in specific tournament details.
Sanctioning: All Championship Divisions are approved and sanctioned by UMA’s Sanctioning Director, William R. Brown.
Tournament Year: The UMA tournament year begins on February 1st and ends on November 1st, with the final event of the year being the UMA Award Banquet.

This structure helps competitors, schools, and spectators know what to expect in terms of competition level and the divisions available at each event. Whether you're preparing for a local seminar or aiming for the World Championship, understanding these classifications ensures you’re ready for the right level of challenge.