Judo Ref School: Calls and Signals in Ground Bouts

Short judo ground bouts in groups of three where one student referees using the basic calls (hajime, matte, osaekomi, toketa, and ippon) and keeps time. Students work on simplified rules, fair decision-making, and controlled wrestling.

How to play

1. Practice five calls with the class, using voice and arm signal: hajime (begin), matte (stop), osaekomi (pin), toketa (escape), and ippon (3 min).
2. Groups of three of similar weight: two wrestlers and a referee with a role card and stopwatch, in a 10 x 10 ft mat area (2 min).
3. Wrestlers start kneeling. On osaekomi the ref counts 15 seconds for ippon and calls toketa on an escape; matte if they leave the mat or it looks unsafe.
4. Bouts last 1 minute 30 seconds, rotating roles until all three have refereed twice: six bouts (13 min).
5. Debrief: which call was hardest to make as a referee? (2 min).

Rules

• On matte, both let go immediately.
• Grip only the torso and arms above the elbow; no neck holds or joint twisting.
• Complaints wait until the end and are made calmly.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: referee or table judge, or wrestle seated against a seated partner.
• Hearing impairment: the ref pairs each call with the signal and a shoulder tap.
• Shyness: start as table judge and referee once comfortable with the signals.

Learning goals

• Know and use the basic judo referee calls and signals.
• Make fair decisions during a bout and communicate them clearly.
• Wrestle while respecting the referee's calls at all times.

Equipment for a class of 25

• tatami mats: 24
• role cards: 9
• stopwatch: 9

Teacher tip

Post a sign with the five calls on the wall so students can check it. At first, many referees let action go too long: stress that stopping on time is part of refereeing well.

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