First-Time National Events Participants

For those of you who are new to a USA Judo national event, it is important to understand that this is a national-level competition where roster points are involved, and at certain events, it also serves as a team trial. USA Judo national events are unlike any local or regional event you may have attended. We hope this information helps prepare you for a great national event experience. Please don’t hesitate to ask questions—understanding the process will help ensure your athlete has the best experience possible.

• Read and understand the entry packet. The information found in the entry packet will be referenced often throughout the event.

• If you successfully registered for the event online, you will receive an email confirmation of your registration. If you do not receive a confirmation email, please contact USA Judo at 719-866-4730.

• Competition is based on year of birth and weight, not the athlete’s current age. Athletes cannot be moved up or down unless the event specifically allows it, or a waiver has been submitted and approved by USA Judo.

• It is your and/or your athlete’s responsibility to ensure that all information on the paperwork and/or online registration is accurate.
• Ensuring the athlete is registered in the correct category and weight is your responsibility. Please do not ask event staff to select a category or weight for your athlete. If you need assistance, consult your coach.
• Changes can only be made during the check-in process prior to the official weigh-in. Changes will not be allowed at weigh-in or after the official weigh-in has concluded.
• Do not allow your child to check themselves in.
• If you believe you pre-registered but do not appear on the online event entry list, please see the on-site registration staff and/or event director immediately.
• Be aware of the scheduled check-in and change timeframe. All changes must be completed during this designated period only.

• Read the posted Weigh-In Procedures and understand them prior to getting on the official scale.
• An athlete may get on the unofficial scale as many times as he or she wants, if the event allows it (check the event packet for details).
• Not only can you miss weight by being too heavy, you can also miss weight by being too light. Know what your weight category is (information can be found in the entry packet).
• Changes to your weight category cannot be made during the weigh-in process. They must be made during the check-in process prior to going to official weigh-in.
• Make sure you read what your official weight is and that it is recorded correctly in the weigh-in computer before you initial the accepted weight.
• If you have missed weight, go to the check-in/changes area to determine your options.
• Only same-gender individuals are allowed in the respective weigh-in rooms, and NO NAKED WEIGH-INS ARE ALLOWED.

• The draw is where athletes are placed into their respective categories and weights based on their entry and/or any changes made at check-in.
• A list of registered athletes and categories will be posted online usajudo.smoothcomp.com for approximately five hours prior to the draw.
• We are human, and mistakes can be made. We need your help to verify that your athlete is in the correct category and weight based on their entry and check-in information.
• If you believe there is an issue with your athlete’s entry, you must contact a USA Judo staff member immediately during the posting period.
• Failure to notify a USA Judo staff member during the posting period may result in your athlete not competing.
• Changes will not be made after the posting period has expired.
• It is your and/or your athlete’s responsibility to ensure they are in the correct category and weight prior to the draw.