COACH and JUDGE CERTIFICATION
Code of Points Training
From virtual competitions to National Championships to the global stage, our judges uphold the integrity, objectivity, progression, and soul of pole and aerial sport. Whether you're starting your judging journey or ready to certify, join the movement shaping the future of our sport.
Why Join Now?
We are in a unique era of growth. By joining our esteemed judging panel, you aren't just joining a roster; you are becoming a vital part of our professional competitive community. You will have a direct hand in:
- Standardizing how our sport is perceived by the public.
- Mentoring the next generation of world-class athletes.
- Helping refine the rules that will govern our sport for years to come.
Who is it for?
Coaches
Taking the Code of Points Training and getting your Coaches Certification will set you apart as a serious and educated coach in Pole and Aerial Sports and also gives you credentials to attend Worlds with your athlete. Even if you never plan to judge, this course will show that you understand the rules and know what it takes to help your athletes succeed.
Retired Athletes
As a former athlete, you are the best person to judge fairly because you understand the "intent" behind the movement. By becoming an official judge, you help ensure that the sport stays true to its roots and that athletes are judged by someone who has been in their shoes.
Prospective/New Judges
Would you like to be a part of history as a certified POSA Judge? The POSA Judges Training is an internationally acclaimed certification that will qualify you to judge certain POSA national competitions. Your certification will stand as a testament that you understand the scoring and can serve the pole community through your judging.
With your successful completion of the Code of Points Training and passing the Judges Certification test, you may be invited to judge the USPSF Virtual Semi-Finals and possibly future events such as USPSF Nationals and even POSA Worlds.
Previously Certified POSA/USPSF Judges
Has it been a while since you've judged? Need a refresher on the Code of Points? Take this training to make sure your skills are laser-sharp and you're ready to judge.
How We Support Our US National Judges:
While judging is a volunteer role driven by passion, we ensure our team is fully supported at every event:
- Lodging and meals covered during Nationals.
- Local transportation provided for all event days during Nationals.
- VIP credentials and the best seat in the house.
- Recognition on our social media pages and newsletter.
- Ongoing professional development and networking opportunities.
Path to Certification and Judging Panel Selection:
Education: A mix of online modules and in-person courses.
Examination: Multiple choice and video tests.
One-on-one sessions: Individualized to target specific weak points, sharpen skills, ensure mastery, and build confidence
Shadow Judging: Observing senior judges at live/virtual events.
Active Status: Judging your first sanctioned event.
Recertification: required yearly
Eligibility Requirements
- At least one year of experience in a pole/aerial apparatus
- At least one year of teaching
- 18 years or older
- Not required, but helpful previous competition experience (as an athlete or coach)
Frequently Asked Questions for Judges Certification
What qualifications do I need?
Anyone who would like to learn more about the Code of Points is invited to take the workshop and/or work towards becoming a Certified Judge.
What are the requirements for Judge’s Training?
New and re-certifying judges must attend all sessions LIVE and for the full duration with cameras on/open to receive course credit.
What happens if I miss a live session?
(for emergencies only)
Potential judges who are unable to meet all of the basic requirements may still be eligible to pass the judges course by meeting these additional requirements:
- Review the recording of the missed session in full
⁃ Complete all 5 knowledge checks passing with 80% or higher
⁃ Pass the multiple choice exam with 80% or higher (updated from the current 60% requirement)
- Pass all video exams with 80% or higher (updated from the current 60% requirement)
Judges who miss more than one live session will be required to retake the course in full.
If I pass the Judge's Certification will I automatically judge the next competition?
There are several factors that contribute to selecting a judging panel. It will be up to the organizers of the event who are chosen. However, having your certification makes you one step closer to judging.
Judges are required to keep their certification current by recertifying each year to be considered for judging assignments, with no exceptions.
To honor the time and dedication of our team, judges who fulfill all requirements under the new judges training structure will be prioritized when assigning judging roles.
How does the lifetime access work?
Lifetime access is available for US based judges. Active US judges who train and judge with us yearly at Virtual Semi-Finals and Nationals will have access to free recertification courses for life. Judges who have lapsed/been inactive (not judged/certified with us) for 2+ years will forfeit lifetime access. They will need to pay a renewal fee and are required to retake the multiple-choice test.