From September 20 to 21, 2025, Saint Petersburg hosted the International Instructors Course (IIC) and the International Umpires Course (IUC) of Taekwon-Do ICTF, an event that marked a pivotal moment for technical and refereeing training in the region.
International Umpire Course with Master Ivano Diodati
The refereeing portion was led by Master Ivano Diodati (7th Dan), who offered participants clear, rigorous, and practical instruction:
- He placed great emphasis on uniformity of competition rules, eliminating possible discrepancies in their application.
- He proposed realistic competition simulations, allowing referees to immediately put into practice the knowledge acquired.
- His expertise and communication skills made the course accessible and engaging, helping train more confident and competent judges.
Diodati’s work was recognized by all participants as an essential reference point to ensure fair and correct conduct in future ICTF competitions.
After the course, tests were held to evaluate the participants, who passed the final exams and obtained certification as Class A and Class B referees.
International Instructors Course with GM Sergio Sergi
At the same time, GM Sergio Sergi (9th Dan) led the technical course for instructors, providing high-level teaching:
- He guided the study of the Tuls (forms), enriching the training with detailed and methodological explanations.
- He emphasized the correct transmission of Taekwon-Do ICTF, underlining the importance of technical precision combined with the philosophy of the discipline.
- The instructors were able to deepen not only the practical aspects but also the theoretical and pedagogical ones, which are fundamental to bringing the knowledge of Taekwon-Do to their respective schools and regions.
GM Sergi’s approach—marked by professionalism but also humility—left a deep impression on those present, strengthening the sense of community and belonging to the ICTF family.
A Step Forward for ICTF Taekwon-Do
This dual training path—both technical and refereeing—made the seminar a unique and complete event, capable of providing concrete tools to both instructors and referees.
Thanks to the teaching of GM Sergio Sergi and Master Ivano Diodati, the ICTF has made an important step toward the growth and dissemination of ICTF Taekwon-Do in Russia and Belarus.
