JUDGE'S CORNER

   
Fair and honest judging is the cornerstone of NBTA baton competitions. Below are a number of items not only for judges, but for coaches, teachers, parents and twirlers, to better understand the sport and how NBTA competitions are to be judged. 
  
Special thanks to Bev Johnson and a select group of NBTA judges for their work in producing this material.
  
Judging Reminders
   
How to become a NBTA Judge
   
AYOP Judge Availability Form 
   
NBTA Judges Manual (6-13-23)
The update to the Judges Manual on 6-13 is to
accurately 
reflect the recent changes to the Corps
rules, 
including the minimum of twirlers from 12 to 10. 
All rules take precedence over this Judge's
Manual if they differ in any way.
   
Judge Protocol Book
Judge Protocol Book Ver 2
    

JUDGING ETHICS

  1. Rise above personal interests.
  2. Preserve the INTEGRITY of baton twirling.
  3. Protect twirling’s true uniqueness and not allow other twirling disciplines to supersede its main trunk of solo twirling
  4. Champion NBTA’s high aims and to further baton twirling as a beneficial worthwhile sport and youth activity.
  5. Foster dignity and a high image for twirling.
  6. Stand tall for what is right and not only expedient.
  7. Lead by personal example.
  8. Guide the future of baton twirling skillfully, artfully and respectfully.
  9. Tactfully resolve differences.
  10. Further NBTA’s leadership aims of safety and integrity. 

JUDGING RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Dress in a professional manner (business casual attire) and arrive at any event 30 minutes ahead of time.
  2. Bring all needed supplies: pens, stopwatch, copy of NBTA rules, blank master sheets 
  3. Be familiar with all NBTA rules and procedures 
  4. Line up a clerk ahead of time if contest director is not providing you one
  5. Before the event, alert the director to any division you should not judge.  If you have a connection to contestants, please remove yourself from judging that division.  Connections include, but are not limited to, 
    • Personal connection
    • Former student or team member/corps member within the past 12 months
    • Private lessons given within past 12 months
    • Current student (individual or team/corps member) 
    • Family member of the athlete
    • Family member to the coach of the athlete
    • Any other questionable affiliation

Twirling Judges should avoid /recuse themselves from any event where there could be a preconceived perception and/ or appearance of a potential unbiased influence and /or a conflict of interest. 

We have a moral and ethical responsibility to each athlete.  Athletes need to know that, when they take the competition floor, they are being met with the highest possible level of commitment and integrity.