China Hosts First National SAMBO Referee Training Seminar

Over 80 participants from across China gathered in Yongcheng for the country's first official National SAMBO Referee Training Seminar, held October 27-30.

Operating under the directives of the General Administration of Sports of China, the four-day Level 1 certification program was hosted by the Weightlifting, Wrestling, Judo, SAMBO and Ju-Jitsu Sports Management Center and organized by the Yongcheng Municipal Bureau of Education and Sports.

Establishing National Standards

Miss Jeremia Ying Ka Fung, Secretary General of the SAMBO Federation of Hong Kong China and FIAS Certified International Referee, served as chief referee instructor for the seminar.

"SAMBO in China is becoming a structured sport with a more complete management system," Ying Ka Fung noted. "This seminar is a crucial step in the national SAMBO referee standardization process – a prerequisite for ensuring fair and impartial competition with unified rules."

The training focused on improving China's refereeing standards, supporting athlete development, and aligning with national sports development goals through proper certification of national-level referees.

The training went beyond technical knowledge. Participants engaged in practical sessions, discussed challenging scenarios, and debated the finer points of SAMBO regulations. The atmosphere was one of enthusiasm and dedication.

Building Toward 2026

Mr. Dong Dayong, Deputy Director of the General Administration of Sport of China, attended the event and announced plans for a National Youth SAMBO Championship in 2026.

The seminar brought together participants from different regions across China, marking a significant milestone in building the country's SAMBO referee infrastructure.

“With over 80 newly certified level 1 SAMBO referees, China has established the foundation needed to support the sport's continued growth and ensure standardized officiating at future national competitions,” – Suresh Gopi, Secretary General of SAMBO Union of Asia and Oceania said.