United Black Belt Federation is owned and operated by Kelly O'Keefe and Roby Irby. UBBF offers regular seminars by leaders in the martial arts industry, rank advancement and distance learning.      

Dr. Kelly O'Keefe, Sensei Amy Giles, Master Moshe Katz, Dr. Roby Irby, Sensei Mike Hovey

Pictured Dr. Jm Thomas, Frank Dux, Master Dave Mayback, Dr. Roby Irby

July 25, 2009

Dear Instructors of all styles of martial arts:

The ALLIANCE OF USAMARTIAL ARTS Board of Directors would like to personally invite you and your students to take part in the Tournament Honoring Senator Dan Rutherford. The Illinois State legislature had severly limited the manner in which tournaments of this nature could be conducted and Senator Dan Rutherford sponsored new legislation to allow all of us to continue our "grass roots" tournaments in the State of Illinois.

We are proud to announce that the Illinois Chapter of the Alliance will show our respect and our gratitude to this outstanding politician who stepped out to help us. All styles of martial arts will benefit from Senator Dan Rutherford's efforts on our behalf. For that reason, we are asking that your support him with at least ten students from your school.

Every Instructor bringing at least ten competitors to the tournament, will be allowed a photo opportunity with the Senator immediately following the presentation ceremony. In additon, the press will be invited, so each of you will be able to use the photo(s) in your local newspaper to promote your own school.

This tournament will be held on Sunday, Sept. 20th, at Parkland School in McHenry, Il. Please mark your calendars! Please post and make copies as needed. To help us recognize you at the opening ceremony, please send your Master -Instructor -information to us along with your students registration.

Respectfully;
Roby Irby

Illinois State President and Tournament Director MMB WWW.mchenrytkd.com Martial Arts Tournament Honoring Senator Dan Rutherford Sunday Sept. 20th, 2009

Athletes Entry Fees $45.00 One or Two Events
$10.00 for additional events
Fees are $5.00 more at door
Pre-registration by Sept. 10th to have your name on event T-shirt
See website for additional information

Above fees apply when registered by September 10th

* Poomse (Traditional, Open, Group forms [max. 4], Creative & Weapons)
* Tag Team Competition
* Gyroogi (Sparring Competition)Divisions: by age, rank, weight

- WTF, AAU sparring rules apply
- Two rounds for colored belts Three rounds for Black Belts McHenry Taekwondo Academy

Mail registration & payment to. . . . . . . . .

Checks payable to McHenry Taekwondo

Registration at 9:30 am 908 North Front St., McHenry, Il. 60050

Start time at 10:15 am No refunds - No exceptions 815-344-2027

Officials Meeting 10:00 am Parkland Jr. High School 1802 North Ringwood Road, McHenry, Il. 60050

Directions: From the South, East or West, take I-90, I-94, to I-294 and go North on I-294 to I-53. Take I-53 North, exit at Lake-Cook Rd.West; take Lake-Cook Rd.West to Rand Road (RT. 12); Go North (right) on Rand Road; continue North; pass thru Lake Zurich; continue until you get to RT. 120; turnWest (left); continue o n Rt. 120 until you get toMcHenry (approx. 6 miles); cross over the river and continue to Ringwood Road.

From Wisconsin, take I-294 South, exit on Rt. 120 and then follow the above directions.

Tournaments Honoring
Senator Dan Rutherford

Who is Dan Rutherford?

Senator Dan Rutherford stepped up the plate earlier this year and sponsored Legislation which scales back undue regulatory burdens that were placed on amateur martial arts contests and exhibitions that do not allow full contact between participants. Senator Rutherford also helped all Illinois martial arts by prompting an "emergency" stay while the

Legislation was being considered by the General Assembly. This "stay" allowed all tournaments scheduled after May 15th, 2009, to continue without the fear of being "shut down" by the Boxing Commission. The bill (HB 786) has passed the General Assembly and now waits on the desk of the Governor for signature.

This new law will help all Amateur martial arts competing in Illinois without needing to worry about undue burdens from Illinois government. Many tournaments which were affected, had to pay sanction fees, memberships for all competitors and were even threatened with fines by the State. Some tournaments were completely shut down which in most cases was a severe monetary loss to the sponsoring schools.

"The state went beyond the scope of its responsibilities and placed unnecessary restrictions on amateur martial arts contests and exhibitions held throughout the state," Rutherford said. "Requiring 8 year olds competing in a martial arts contest to be examined by a doctor immediately prior to and after each match and have blood tests, further this was well beyond the intended role for state regulation of amateur martial arts in Illinois," Rutherford added.

We school owners, all felt that the original regulatory burdens couldn't possibly apply to us; but we were all lost as to what could actually be done to change it? The State doesn't require these strict regulations for soccer, football, baseball, volleyball, etc. And, after all, when was the last time you saw a 75 year old or a 3 year old in a "cage match".

It appeared to us that the original regulatory burdens put all martial arts in the category of "professional" status which couldn't possibly be since we all know that "professional" sports cannot be a part of the Olympic Program, and Taekwondo; for example, is still a full-medal Olympic Sport.

The Legislation sponsored by Senator Rutherford, clarifies the distinction between professional and amateur events. The legislation eliminates involvement by the state in events that does not include full-contact. Amateur martial arts like Jujitsu, Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, and Aikido are just a few examples of the disciplines that will be protected from unnecessary and over board rules. "There is a big difference between full contact 'toughman' contests and amateur martial arts for people of all ages," highlighted the Senator.

Many school owners contacted, called, mailed and sent emails to their local State Representatives and State Senators. But, Senator Dan Rutherford was one of a very few, who took the time to listen to the concern of all Martial Artists in the Illinois. He was there for us at a time when we needed a helping hand and even more important; he changed the way our industry is being influenced and governed by the State.

So Why a Tournament Honoring Dan Rutherford?

Senator Rutherford recently announced that he is a candidate for the position of Illinois State Treasurer. We want to help Senator Rutherford in his effort. It is our turn to step up to the plate. Roby Irby, President, of the Illinois Chapter of the Alliance of USA Martial Arts, proposes we school owners schedule three martial arts tournaments to honor Senator Rutherford. The tournaments are scheduled for Sept. 20th at Parkland Jr. High School in McHenry, Il, in October at the Convention Center in Peoria, Il., and Dec. 5th at Blacks Martial Arts Academy in Carbondale, Il. Proceeds from the tournaments will benefit the Dan Rutherford effort.

What are these tournaments about?

All three tournaments are open to all styles of Martial Arts. After all, Senator Rutherford went to bat for all of us regardless of our affiliation. The net proceeds from each of these tournaments will be donated to the campaign fund of Dan Rutherford.

We have scheduled a one-day tournament at each of the following locations:

CHICAGO AND METRO AREA Sept. 20th Parkland Jr. High School 1802 North Ringwood Road McHenry, Il. 60050 815-344-2027
CENTRAL ILLINOIS AREA Oct. 17th St. St Philomena's School 3216 Emery Ave. Peoria, Il
Harrison & Dorris College of Martial Arts 1748 N. Sheridan Road Peoria, Illinois 61604
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS AREA Dec. 5th Black's Martial Arts 880 West High Street Carbondale, Il. 62901 618-351-6209

We obviously need participation from every martial arts school in the State. We now know that Martial Arts needs a voice in our State government. We can't continue to ask for help when we are in trouble and not expect to give anything back.

We plan to have a website for registration and detailed information. Contact the following for additional info.

Aldus Martial Arts 309-685-9560
Black's Martial Arts 618-351-6209
Harrison Martial Arts 309 251 8588
McHenry Taekwondo Academy 815-344-2027

Tournament Honoring Senator Dan Rutherford WWW.mchenrytkd.com Fees are $5.00 more at the door. Entry Fee: $45.00 - One event $55.00 -Two Events $65.00 - Three events $5.00 each adtnl. event Pre-registration must be received by Sept. 10th

Make checks payable to: McHenry Taekwondo Academy

Tournament Site: Mail registration and payment to:
Parkland Jr. High School McHenry Taekwondo Academy

1802 North Ringwood Rd. 908 North Front St., McHenry, Il. 60050 McHenry, Il. 60050 815-344-2027

Registration 9:30-10:00am No refunds - No exceptions Officials meeting 10:00 am Start time at 10:15 am

Competitor's Name ________________________________ Address ________________________________

City ______________________________ State _____ & Zip _________ Tel. # _____________________

Age ____ Male ___ Female ___ Belt Rank (Color of belt) _______ # of tournaments involved in ______

Net proceeds go to the Dan Rutherford campaign fund. Divisions will be divided by Belt, Age, Weight class

School name & Address ________________________________ ________________________________ _____

School Tel. # ________________________________ __ Instructors' name _____________________________

ALL participants MUST READ AND SIGN our Liability release and mail it in or bring it with you before the event Our Liability Release Form... 

Schedule of Events

9:30 am Registration
10:00 Officials Meeting
Coaches
Referees

10:15 Tournament begins
11:30 Presentation Ceremony
time approx. depending on the Senators' arrival

Welcome Salute to the Troops

Introduction of the Senator Senators' presentation Special Presentation to the Senator Group Photo Presentation of Colors National Anthem Photo OP for VIP Instructors

Following Presentation Ceremonies

RULES AND REGULATIONS
BELT COLOR DIVISIONS
Beginner - white, yellow, orange
Intermediate - green, blue, purple
Advanced - red, brown, deputy black
Black Belt

*** SPECIAL ATHLETES DIVISION ***

Check Website for further detail

FORMS

TAE KWON DO AND OPEN

Color Belts - 6 & Under, 7-9, 10-12, 13-15, 16-17, 18-34, 35-49, 50+

Black Belts - 9 & Under, 10-12, 13-17, 18-34, 35-49, 50-60, Seniors, Masters

Traditional forms judged on individual merit according to rhythm, balance, stance, posture, execution of technique, power, grace, and application of target. We appreciate and recognize the differences of the many styles of martial arts throughout the world. Open Forms can be from any style martial art. Forms in the Tae Kwon Do division, must be Tae Kwon Do

________________________________ ________________________________ ________________

SYNCHRONIZED FORMS

6 & Under, 7-11, 12-17, 18-34, 35+

ALL BELTS TOGETHER

Forms may be done with or without weapons.

Two or more competitors do the same traditional or creative form in time with each other.

Movements must shadow or mirror a lead person. No music is used.

Persons can sign up in different age groups.

Each member of the group will receive a medal.

Time limit is 2 minutes or less.

________________________________ ________________________________ ____________

CREATIVE FORMS

6 & Under, 7-11, 12-17, 18-34, 35+

Color Belts

Black Belts Separate

Forms done with or without music and with or without weapons.

Any music must be supplied on CD by competitor.

Judged on individuality.

Forms should match any music used.

Time limit is 2 minutes or less.

________________________________ ________________________________ ____________

WEAPONS

6 & Under, 7-11, 12-17, 18-34, 35+

Color Belts

Black Belts Separate

All martial arts weapons are accepted.

No guns are allowed. Inspection of weapons may be asked for if judge deems it necessary for safety.

The form shall not be judged on the content as this varies with school and style.

Judging will be on balance, concentration, execution, form, speed, power, intensity,and control.

Competitors 18 and older who drops his/her weapon is automatically disqualified.

________________________________ ________________________________ ___________

BREAKING

Color Belts - 6 & Under, 7-9, 10-12, 13-15, 16-17, 18-34, 35-49, 50+

Black Belts - 9 & Under, 10-12, 13-17, 18-34, 35-49, 50-60, Seniors, Masters

Wood only for Breaking.

Color belts may break 4 boards maximum, with three stations.

Black belts may break 8 boards maximum, with no more than 5 stations.

All competitors must break at more than one station.

Only two attempts allowed per station, with a 1 minute set up time.

If competitor breaks, the score is given based on difficulty.

A = 1st attempt break.

B = 2nd attempt break.

C = Failed to break at station.

Competitors must provide holders and set-up materials.

Boards must be purchased at tournament to allow for uniformity.

Board size for 6 and under is 1/4" x 12" x 9", for 7-12 year olds 1" x 12" x 6", for

13 and up 1" x 12" x 10".

________________________________ ________________________________ ____________

CHANBARA (SOFT SWORD) SPARRING

6 & Under, 7-11, 12-17, 18-34, 35+

Color Belts and Black Belts Separate

Opponents must use flexible foam swords, wear headgear with face guard, and a cup (males). Full contact is

allowed. Rounds are two minutes or first to five points.

Points are scored by cleanly striking the body, head, or limbs. A majority of judges must award a point.

Headgear and soft swords will be available to competitors. However, we encourage you to bring your

own equipment when possible to aid in the flow of the competition.

________________________________ ________________________________ ____________

TAG TEAM OLYMPIC SPARRING

17 - 35+

BLACK BELTS ONLY

This will be a five-minute round.

If score is tied - there will be one additional five-minute round with a sudden death round if needed.

All standard Olympic sparring rules will apply except that team members may "tag" out anytime.

Each TAG TEAM must have an equal number of competitors per team.

RULES FOR OLYMPIC-STYLE SPARRING, POINT SPARRING,

AND CHANBARA SPARRING

OLYMPIC-STYLE SPARRING

Color Belts All Ages: Two rounds, continuous, one minute each, 30 sec rest.

All Black Belts All Ages: Two rounds, continuous, two minutes each, 30 sec rest.

Divisions will be by age and belt color and divided between male and female.

Color Belts - 6 & Under, 7-9, 10-12, 13-15, 16-17, 18-32, 33-39, 40-49, 50+

Black Belts - 9 & Under, 10-12, 13-15, 16-17, 18-34, 35-45, 46+, Masters

Competitors will be grouped for the most part into divisions of four or less. In groups of four, two third places

will be awarded. In groups of three, one athlete will get a "bye."

The "bye" is considered a win and the athlete awarded the "bye" does not compete in the first round.

Weight divisions will be used as needed.

Divisions may be combined or further divided, depending on the number of competitors.

Exhibition matches will be permitted with coach/parent permission. Both will receive 1st place.

EQUIPMENT: Martial arts uniform, shin & instep protectors, forearm protectors, protective cup (males),

headgear, chest protector, and a mouth piece. You must supply your own. No jewelry will be

allowed. Fingernails and toenails must be trimmed.

LEGAL TECHNIQUES: Fore fist (no open hand techniques, back fist, palm strike, knife hand, etc.) -

Foot (any part of the foot below the ankle). - No takedowns, sweeps, or trapping permitted.

AREAS FOR SCORING: Head area - light controlled foot contact to the head gear only (no hand

contact is allowed). Body area - contact only to the part of the body covered by the chest protector.

VALID SCORES: One point awarded for any legal foot or hand strike executed with proper

balance/technique. Corner judges will determine sufficient force for awarding points. Light contact to the head

by the foot with proper technique to the scoring area will be awarded a point.

WARNINGS - RULES INFRACTIONS:

* executing a kick to the head area that results in minor injury (bruising or abrasion) shall receive a one-point

deduction

* executing a kick to the head with heavy contact (bleeding or the inability of the opponent to

continue due to the injury) opponent shall be disqualified

* any competitor who executes a technique that causes his opponent to bleed shall be disqualified

* maliciously attacking opponent * grabbing the opponent

* pushing the opponent with the shoulder, body or hands * attacking a fallen opponent

* attacking with unauthorized implement (knee, elbow, etc.)

* attacking an unauthorized area (face, groin, back, back or head, neck, etc.)

* faking an injury * escaping contact by turning the back

* stepping out of bounds to avoid contact * intentionally falling to avoid contact

* presenting a defenseless posture * holding the opponent

* uttering undesirable remarks or unsportsmanlike conduct (by athlete, coach,

or any spectator or individual associated with the athlete)

* gesturing to celebrate a score * attacking the head or face with fist

FAILURE TO COMPLYWITH THE RULES WILL RESULT IN A ONE POINT DEDUCTION

OR DISQUALIFICATION AT THE DISCRETION OF THE CENTER REFEREE.

________________________________ ________________________________ ____________

POINT SPARRING

Divisions will be divided between male and female.

Color Belts - 6 & Under, 7-9, 10-12, 13-15, 16-17, 18-32, 33-39, 40-49, 50+

Black Belts - 7-9, 10-12, 13-15, 16-17, 18-34, 35-49, 50-60, Seniors, Masters

DURATION OF COMPETITION

All colored belt matches shall consist of two 60-second rounds with a 30-second rest between rounds

All Black belt matches shall consist of two, 90-second rounds with a 30-second rest between rounds.

Rest Time Between Final & Semi-Final Round - Competitors shall be allowed a full two-minute rest between

semi-final and final matches

PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Mandatory - All competitors must wear a mouth-guard - full hand protectors - full foot protectors - full

headgear including a padded top (padding under & around chin or a face shield will not be allowed) -

Other than headgear, no other item shall be worn on the head - male competitors must wear groin cup

and supporter on the inside of the dobok - safety equipment may not be taped for any reason.

Optional - competitors may wear cloth or foam shin, shin/instep protectors - cloth or foam forearm

guards - foam dipped/vinyl breast protector for women and foam dipped/vinyl rib protectors- all optional

equipment must be worn under the dobok.

Compliance - A competitor has two-minutes to comply with articles above or face disqualification.

LEGAL TECHNIQUES

Controlled techniques to the head (feet or hands).

- feet

- straight punch

- back fist

- hammer fist

- ridge hand

Technique to kidney is ok (punch or kick).

Both competitors have to be in the ring to score a point.

NON LEGAL TECHNIQUES

- no technique to mask area (face) ----including Black Belts

- no knife hand

- no finger or palm hand techniques

- no spine techniques

- no sweeps or take downs

DECLARATION OF WINNER

All matches will run until the end of allotted time. Whoever has the most points will be declared the winner.

________________________________ ________________________________ ____________

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