Precision Under Pressure: How Instant Video Review is Elevating Taekwondo Officiating

In a sport where lightning-fast kicks and split-second decisions can determine the outcome of a match, accuracy isn’t just important, it is essential. That’s why Instant Video Review (IVR) has become an indispensable tool for Taekwondo referees at all levels of competition.

Whether it’s a world championship or a entry tournament, IVR helps ensure that every point is earned and every athlete is given a fair shot. But how does this process actually work behind the scenes and what makes an IVR solution with Dartfish such a game-changer for the sport?

Let’s take a closer look.

The Basic Rules of IVR for Taekwondo

At the start of each match, coaches are given an IVR appeal card, which is essentially their ticket to appeal as situation. Here’s how it works:

• One appeal per contest is allowed.
• If the coach’s appeal is successful, they retain the card and can appeal again later.
• If the appeal is rejected, the card is surrendered, and they lose the ability to appeal for the rest of the match.

Referees themselves can initiate a review at any point, especially during the last 10 seconds of Round 3 or during the golden round, ensuring technical errors don’t go uncorrected, even when a coach is out of their appeal.

The Real-Time Workflow: Accuracy and Speed

The appeal process is swift, structured, and designed to minimize downtime:

• A coach holds up their IVR card.

• The center referee approaches to confirm the reason for the appeal.

• The referee then signals for a Hong or Chung video review.

• The review referee analyzes the replay, cycling through multiple synced camera angles using Dartfish ProS and a preprogrammed Shuttle Pro controller.

• A decision is made within 30 seconds.

Then comes the clear verdict:

• Thumbs up with a point signal = appeal accepted.

• Arms crossed into an X = appeal rejected.

Depending on the outcome, the coach either gets the card back or loses it for the rest of the contest.

The Technology Behind the Call: Dartfish Pro S

IVR wouldn’t be possible without the right tools and that’s where Dartfish comes in.

• 2 to 3 cameras (up to 4 with the ProS) are strategically placed around the mat to capture every angle of action.
• With Dartfish Pro S, all video feeds are synced and controlled with the Shuttle Pro, giving review referees precise control to:
  • Fast-forward/rewind
  • Zoom in on crucial movements
  • Frame-by-frame scrub to pinpoint moments of contact or scoring

In less than 30 seconds, a referee can review a contested moment and make an accurate, confident decision which keeps the match fair, fast, and focused.

Why It Matters:

Instant Video Review brings fairness and transparency to the forefront of Taekwondo. In a sport built on speed, precision, and respect, having the right technology ensures that athletes, coaches, and fans can trust in the outcome.

For federations, clubs, and organizing bodies looking to elevate their competitions, Dartfish is a trusted solution with organizations around the world!

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