Terms & Conditions, Code of Conduct
PARTICIPANT WAIVER, RELEASE OF LIABILITY, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT
THIS IS A LEGALLY BINDING DOCUMENT. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING.
This Agreement is entered into by the Participant (and/or the Participant’s parent/legal guardian, if the Participant is under 18) in favor of the “Released Parties,” defined as: Kenpo International, Middleton Karate, Revere Karate, Boston IKC (International Karate Championships), and their respective owners, directors, officers, employees, instructors, volunteers, agents, event sponsors, and affiliates.
1. Assumption of Risk
I understand and acknowledge that participation in martial arts classes, seminars, tournaments, and events (the “Activity”) involves inherent risks. These risks include, but are not limited to:
- Physical Contact: Striking, kicking, grappling, throwing, and submission holds which may result in bruises, cuts, sprains, strains, broken bones, concussions, or other serious physical injuries.
- Weapons Training: The use of traditional martial arts weapons (e.g., Bo staff, Kama, Swords) which carries a risk of laceration or puncture.
- General Hazards: Slips, trips, falls, equipment failure, or contact with other participants or the facility floor/walls.
- Catastrophic Injury: In rare circumstances, participation could result in permanent paralysis, brain injury, or death.
I knowingly and freely assume all such risks, both known and unknown, even if arising from the negligence of the Released Parties.
2. Waiver and Release of Liability
In consideration of being allowed to participate in the Activity, I hereby explicitly release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue the Released Parties for any and all claims, demands, or causes of action arising out of or related to any loss, damage, or injury (including death) that may be sustained by me, or to any property belonging to me, whether caused by the negligence of the Released Parties or otherwise, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
3. Indemnification
I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Released Parties from and against any and all costs, expenses, damages, lawsuits, liabilities, or claims (including reasonable attorney’s fees) arising from:
- My participation in the Activity.
- My conduct or the conduct of my guests while at the facility or event.
- Any claim made by me, or on my behalf, that is barred by this Agreement.
4. Medical Consent
I certify that I am physically fit to participate in the Activity. In the event of a medical emergency, I grant the Released Parties permission to authorize emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, or surgery if I am unable to do so myself (or if my parent/guardian is not present). I agree to be solely responsible for all costs associated with such medical care and transportation.
5. Media and Likeness Release
I grant the Released Parties the right to take photographs, video, and audio recordings of me during the Activity. I grant the Released Parties the irrevocable right to use my name, likeness, image, and voice in promotional materials, social media, websites, and commercial publications without compensation or further approval.
6. Rules of Conduct
I agree to follow all rules, regulations, and instructions given by the instructors and staff of the Released Parties. I understand that failure to comply with safety rules or respectful conduct may result in my immediate expulsion from the event or school without refund.
7. Governing Law and Severability
This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. If any portion of this Agreement is held to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining portions shall continue in full force and effect.
OFFICIAL EVENT CODE OF CONDUCT
Event: Boston IKC (International Karate Championships) Hosts: Kenpo International, Middleton Karate, Revere Karate
The following standards apply to all Competitors, Coaches, Parents, and Spectators. By entering the venue, you agree to adhere to these rules. Failure to comply may result in immediate disqualification and/or removal from the premises without refund.
1. The Spirit of Martial Arts
- Respect: All participants must treat judges, referees, staff, and opponents with the utmost respect.
- Sportsmanship: Win with humility; lose with grace. Displays of aggressive anger, throwing equipment, or refusing to bow to an opponent or judge will result in immediate disqualification.
- Zero Tolerance: There is a zero-tolerance policy for profanity, racial or sexist slurs, or verbal abuse directed at any individual.
2. Competitor Responsibilities
- Control: Competitors must demonstrate control of their techniques. Malicious contact or intent to injure is grounds for immediate ejection.
- Uniforms: Competitors must wear a clean, traditional uniform. Long hair must be tied back. Fingernails and toenails must be trimmed to prevent injury to opponents.
- Safety Gear: All mandatory safety equipment (mouthguards, groin protection, sparring gear) must be worn. Failure to have proper gear may result in forfeiture of the match.
- Punctuality: Competitors are responsible for being at their assigned ring when their division is called. The event will not be delayed for missing competitors.
3. Coaching Guidelines
- Designated Areas: Coaches must remain in the designated coaching chair or area. They may not enter the ring or approach the scoring table unless requested by the Chief Referee.
- Conduct: Coaches may not argue with judges regarding scores or calls. All protests must follow the official arbitration procedure defined by the Tournament Director.
- Interaction: Coaching from the sidelines must be encouraging and technical. Berating officials or shouting at opponents is strictly prohibited.
4. Spectator and Parent Etiquette
- Support: Please cheer for your competitor, but do not boo or disparage their opponent.
- Referees: The referees are often volunteers and fellow martial artists. Do not yell at referees regarding points or calls.
- Safety Zones: Spectators must keep clear of the ring barriers and medical walkways. Do not block the view of others.
- Photography: Photography is permitted, but flash photography near the sparring rings is prohibited as it may blind a competitor and cause injury.
5. Prohibited Items and Actions
- Substances: Alcohol and illegal drugs are strictly prohibited on the premises. Any person under the influence will be escorted out by security.
- Weapons: Live blades (sharpened swords/knives) are strictly prohibited unless authorized specifically for a Black Belt demonstration division and inspected by the Chief Referee.
- Unauthorized Sales: No soliciting or selling of merchandise is allowed without prior written consent from Kenpo International or the event organizers.