Discuss

Reminders:
  • Proposal here is in it's original form as it was submitted. This is one proposal and thus one vote
  • Executive Board - Voted the following way:
    1. Board Yes

    Notes: This proposal contains a large number of editorial changes to current bylaws, bringing them in line with how the organization currently operates. They have not been updated in many years and up until now had only been informally followed. This proposal presents concrete language that is not subject to interpretation and outlines exactly what is required of all officials wishing to work USAWKS events.
  • 50%+1 State Body Vote is required for passage of this item.


Quote
Proposal to amend and update USA Wrestling Kansas - Kids Modification 3-1-1

Submitted by: William Nigel Isom (Official’s Director)

Rationale:

The current language of the current kids modification is very much dated by a great many years. This old language does not account for additional requirements to be an official as dictated by USA Wrestling , the parent organization. The proposal includes adding additional language to support these requirements, adds a formal exemption for high school aged officials and younger to allow them to start officiating on a trial basis without the added expense and time needed for full compliance. However it will be STRONGLY encouraged by the Official’s Director that every official regardless of age become fully registered.

Finally, additional language has been added to address a new standard official’s shirt that will become mandatory for all officials working USAWKS specific events. The reasoning for this is to provide a cohesive standard uniform that officials working these events can be proud to work for and represent as well as bring some excitement back into the uniform.

New language is added in Red.

Current Rule Text:

Rule 3?1?1 A minimum of fifty percent (50%) of the officials will be required to be USAWA? Kansas and high school registered for all sanctioned tournaments. One registered official will serve on the tournament disciplinary committee and be in charge of all officials. It is recommended that all officials be both high school and kids registered.

To be a Kansas Kids registered official:
1. Return registration form.
2. Must be a high school registered official.
3. An official referee uniform is mandatory during all competition.
4. Failure to honor a written contract to officiate will be grounds to have Kansas Kids certification revoked.
5. To be considered for the Kids State Tournament an official must
a. have officiated at least one kids tournament and
b. must work a district tournament unless they receive a waiver from the State Officials’ Director and the State Folkstyle Director.


Proposed Change

Rule 3?1?1 A minimum of fifty percent (50%) of the officials will be required to be USAWA? Kansas USA Wrestling Kansas and high school registered Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) registered for all sanctioned tournaments. In addition, all non-exempt officials must be in good standing with USA Wrestling with the current season’s SafeSport course completed, current background check (within 45 days of turning 18), and either an Event Volunteer or Wrestling Leader membership, prior to their participation in their first event of the season. One registered official will serve on the tournament disciplinary committee, be designated by the tournament director, and be in charge of all officials at the event (Head Official). It is recommended that all officials be both high school and kids registered.

To be a Kansas Kids registered official:
1. Register and be in good standing with USA Wrestling to include SafeSport, background check when applicable, and an Event Volunteer or Wrestling Leader membership.
2. Return registration form. Register with USA Wrestling Kansas in the manner prescribed by the current Officials Director.
3. Must be a high school KSHSAA registered official (Except as noted in item 6 below).
4. An official referee uniform is mandatory during all competitions.
5. Failure to honor a written contract to officiate will be grounds to have Kansas Kids certification revoked.
6. Individuals age 19 and younger and still enrolled in high school or middle school are exempt from the registration requirements above but must complete the SafeSport and background check within 45 days of turning 18. These individuals must complete all requirements if they wish to work USAWKS post-season. Additionally, they must be supervised by their school coach or another registered official.
7. All officials working post-season tournaments must meet all of the above requirements.
5 8. To be considered for the Kids State Tournament an official must
a. have officiated at least one kids tournament and
b. must work a district tournament unless they receive a waiver from the State Officials’ Director and the State Folkstyle Director.

Beginning in the 2025-2026 season, USA Wrestling Kansas will have an organizational specific standardized official’s shirt for all sanctioned events. The approved shirt design will feature gray panels with black pinstripes on the front and back, solid black panels on the top and sides, black sleeves, and the USA Wrestling Kansas logo on the left sleeve.

This shirt shall serve as part of the required uniform for officials at USAWKS events.