On 6 August 2011 an Umpire Seminar was hosted in Pretoria by Senior Master Kim. Thirty members ranging from red belts to 4th Dan black belts participated in the seminar and successfully passed the requirements. Five participants passed “Class B” umpire certification, while the rest received “Class C” umpire certification.

The certification class depends on a participants age and rank. The highest umpire ranking is “Class A” International Umpire for 4th Dan holders of at least 25 years old and other applicable criteria as required by ITF. “Class B” umpire certification are for 2nd Dan and higher holders of at least 18 years old and other applicable criteria as required by ITF and is only valid at domestic level. In South Africa we also have a domestic “Class C” umpire certification for red belts to 1st Dan holders to provide these members opportunity to actively participate in South African tournaments at an official level.

The SA-ITF wish to congratulate the thirty members with their new umpire certification.