Learn how the WAKO Coaches Committee ensures a safe and inclusive environment for athletes, free from harassment and abuse. Discover our safeguarding goals, procedures, and commitment to equality in kickboxing Coaches Committee Committed to Safe and Inclusive Kickboxing The WAKO Coaches Committee is dedicated to creating an environment where athletes can thrive with respect, dignity, and protection from any form of harassment or abuse. Our mission goes beyond training and competitions—it's about safeguarding the well-being of all participants in the sport of kickboxing. Our Commitment: WAKO is committed to providing a safe environment for athletes and members at all levels. Prevention of abusive situations is fundamental to our mission, and we aim to create a culture of respect and equality for everyone involved in kickboxing. Safeguarding Goals: Promoting and maintaining a safe environment during and beyond competitions. Raising awareness and creating standards to define boundaries between officials and athletes. Establishing clear reporting mechanisms for any concerns or violations. Structuring procedures for investigating complaints effectively and with care. Our Achievements in 2024 The Coaches Committee has made remarkable progress in 2024, setting the foundation for further growth and development: Coach Licensing System: Developed the WAKO Coach License System Level 1 in collaboration with the WAKO Education Committee. International Seminars: Conducted development seminars across Iraq, Jordan (Arabic countries), Saudi Arabia, the UAE, China, and Thailand. Championship Seminars: Hosted impactful coach seminars during the World and European Championships. Athletes Corner: Provided assistance and support during the Athletes Corner at the European Championships. Collaboration: Participated in development meetings with several WAKO Committees to ensure alignment and progress. Our Vision for 2025 Building on the success of 2024, the WAKO Coaches Committee will focus on these key areas: Coach Licensing Coordination: Oversee the implementation of the WAKO Coach License System in collaboration with the Education Committee. Advanced Licensing Development: Develop WAKO Coach License System Levels 2 and 3 in partnership with the Education Committee. Global Development Seminars: Expand international development seminars to engage and support coaches worldwide. Online Development Programs: Launch comprehensive online development programs to provide continuous education and growth opportunities for coaches. Championship Engagement: Continue organizing coach seminars during the World and European Championships. Recognizing Excellence: Propose criteria for selecting the Best Athletes, Best Referees, and Best Ethical Coach, working in collaboration with the Referees Committee. Our Mission Safe Sport: Ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all participants. Excellence in Coaching: Promote professional development, knowledge sharing, and ethical practices. Athlete-Centered Approach: Put athletes at the core of our initiatives, ensuring they have the best possible support for their development.

Explore WAKO's Women in Sport Committee, dedicated to promoting gender equality and empowering women in kickboxing. Learn about initiatives, events, and opportunities to support female athletes worldwide. WAKO Women in Sport Committee The WAKO Women in sport Committee is one of the expert’s committees in WAKO, established in 2016, aimed for promotion of gender equality and generation equity in kickboxing. CAMPAIGNS Women in sport Committee is organizing various campaigns for promoting gender equality and raising awareness about global phenomena such as: Emowering women in sport – Her win, Our win climate changes – WAKO for Climate, health - WAKO Women against Cancer, pandemic - Be Positive, Stay Negative, breaking stereotypes about gender roles – He For She, stopping violence against women and girls – UN Orange Day, sustainable development - Plastic is NOT fantastic and many, many others, mostly the ones which affects women and girls in everyday life. All of the campaigns had accompanying actions in occasion of the World and Continental Championships. MONITORING Concerning kickboxing sport, the Committee is monitoring all legal documents of WAKO concerning the position and the representation of women in the decision making bodies of WAKO and its Committees. The focus of the Committee is attainability of the tournaments in the world to women and girls. The Committee also controls management of kickboxing tournaments if they meet the particular needs of women and girls and provide them safety in sport. INCREASE OF PARTICIPATION In WAKO, we already have participants of both genders, and Committee aims to increase the participation of women in all kickboxing disciplines, as well as referees in the ring and tatami, coaches and officials. BRIGHTON PLUS SIGNATORIES On the initiative of Women in sport Committee, in March 2017 WAKO have signed Brighton Plus Helsinki 2014 Declaration on Women and Sport which is a summary document how to develop a sporting culture to grant women and girls equality in sport at all levels of participation. CONFERENCE The Committee organized The 1st WAKO Women in Sport Conference on 18th May 2018 in the occasion of WAKO World Kickboxing Cup in Budapest. The Conference was organized in two parts. The first part was separated in three sections: Introduction of the WAKO Women Committee Chairwomen Mrs. Katarzyna Kociszewska, activities and the future goals. Lecture by Ms. Alicja Sekret, presenter of "Breastfit" the OnkoCafe Foundation from Poland with "Self control- early detection of breast cancer" as the part of the global campaign "WAKO Women against cancer". Expert speaker Ms. Dorota Godzina, former kickboxing champion and expert dietitian with a lecture “Sudden weight loss and consequences for women's health”. The second part of the programme was introduction of Mrs. Marijana Pelevic, WAKO Women Committee member about ongoing Conference of International working group of women and sport (IWG) and the reflection on the activities of WAKO at the GAISF Sport Conference in Bangkok in April 2018. WORKSHOPS The Committee occasionally organizes workshops “How to involve more women in organizational structures in WAKO”. SAFEGUARDING POLICY The focus of the Committee was to create WAKO Safeguarding Policy to cover all aspects of the safeguarding policies and procedures in protecting kickboxing athletes, especially minors, from any kind of harassment during WAKO events. As a result, on March 12, 2022, the WAKO Board of Directors has approved the WAKO Safeguarding Policy of protecting and safeguarding athletes from harassment and abuse in sport. The Women in Sport Committee representatives presents the most important aspects of the Safeguarding Policy during the main WAKO events of the year. WAKO Women in Sport Committee workshop 2021_summary.pdf Brighton Plus Declaration Helsinki signed.pdf Brighton-plus-Helsinki-2014-Declaration-on-Women-and-Sport.pdf 1st WAKO Women Conference.pdf useful link: 10-principles-of-the-brighton-plus-helsinki-declaration

Explore remote and global career opportunities with WAKO, the IOC-recognized kickboxing federation. Join us in shaping the future of combat sports worldwide. Jobs vacancies Part-Time Office and Marketing Administrator (Remote) – Brand Support & Development** **Role Profile: Part-Time Office and Marketing Administrator (Remote) – Brand Support & Development** Position Title: Office and Marketing Administrator (Part-Time, 2-3 days/week) Location: Remote or hybrid Duration: 2-year Fixed Term Contract Reporting To: WAKO Office Manager - President of WAKO (World Association of Kickboxing Organizations) **Overview:** WAKO is a renowned global sport organization recognized by the IOC, dedicated to promoting and developing kickboxing worldwide. We are seeking a proactive, detail-oriented Office and marketing Administrator with a passion for brand development and support. This part-time role offers a unique opportunity for a graduate in Sports management, brand management or marketing to gain invaluable experience within a prestigious international IOC recognised global organization, contributing to our global growth and brand presence. **Main Responsibilities:** - Provide efficient administrative support remotely, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. - Assist in brand support and development activities, including coordinating campaigns, managing mass communication, and supporting promotional initiatives. - Maintain and update contact databases using modern contact management software. ( Contact Manager ) - Draft, review, and proofread correspondence, reports, and promotional content in clear, professional English. - Manage Marketing and Brand schedules, meetings, and communication with internal teams and external stakeholders. - Support WAKO Media team, social media and digital branding efforts as required. Ensure collaboration and consolidation of activities - Track and report on branding projects, surveys and campaigns. - Ensure confidentiality and data protection standards are maintained at all times. **Key Requirements:** - Proven experience in using modern contact database software (COntact Manager - HubSpot, or similar). - Exceptional written and spoken English language skills; meticulous attention to detail. - Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to work independently. - Familiarity with digital communication platforms, social media, and Brand, marketing concepts. - Demonstrated professionalism and adaptability in a remote work environment. - Adequate home-office setup with reliable internet connection. **Desirable Attributes:** - Recent graduate in brand management, marketing, communications, or Sports administration and related field. - Interest or experience within the sports industry, especially within international or Olympic-affiliated organizations. - interest and experience in the Combat sports industry Ability to support a dynamic, evolving brand development and marketing strategy on a global scale. **We Offer:** - A fair, Salary consummated with experience and role. - An engaging role within a prestigious global IOC recognised sports organization. - Flexible part-time working arrangements. That will ensure flexibility for you and your family. - Opportunity to gain experience and build a global network within the international sports community. - Supportive team environment with exposure to our Media team, brand and marketing functions at a high level. **Application Process:** Application period is open for fourteen days from 29th of May to the 12th June. Successfully applications will be contacted by return mail within 5 working days. Interested candidates should submit a CV and cover letter outlining their suitability for the role and motivation for working with WAKO to president@wako.sport

Stay informed with messages and updates from the WAKO President, highlighting key initiatives and the future of global kickboxing. Presidents Corner Welcome to the President’s Corner! Each month, Roy Baker, President of WAKO, will share insights, updates, and reflections on the world of kickboxing and the exciting developments within WAKO. From international competitions to organizational growth, this corner will keep you connected to the pulse of WAKO’s mission, values, and vision for the future of kickboxing. Whether you're an athlete, coach, official, or a passionate fan, President Baker’s updates will provide you with valuable perspectives on our sport’s journey, the challenges we face, and the triumphs we celebrate. Stay tuned for stories from around the globe, important announcements, and an inside look into the continuous evolution of WAKO. Check back every month to stay informed, inspired, and engaged with everything happening in the world of WAKO kickboxing! Click here for November 2024 - International Kickboxing Day Click here for Dec 2024

Learn about WAKO’s commitment to fair play through its partnership with the International Fair Play Committee, fostering respect and integrity in kickboxing. WAKO Fair Play WAKO and the Spirit of Fair Play WAKO is a proud long-term partner of the International Fair Play Committee (CIFP) and is deeply committed to promoting the values of fair play in kickboxing and beyond. The mission of CIFP is to preserve and promote respect for the spirit of fair play, not only in elite sports but in everyday life. This means adhering to both written and unwritten rules, showing respect for opponents, and rejecting violence and doping. CIFP works closely with national governing bodies, including ministries, Olympic committees, sports federations, and media organizations, to foster the development of national fair play committees worldwide. WAKO is honored to be part of this movement, working to build a foundation for fair play in sports. Fair Play Values The CIFP and WAKO emphasize the following core values that embody fair play in sport and society: Fair Competition: Triumph must come through honesty and just play. Respect: Fair play requires unconditional respect for all, from opponents to referees and fans. Friendship: Rivalry on the field doesn’t exclude friendship off it. Team Spirit: Success is greater when shared with a team. Equality: True competition can only happen on equal terms. Integrity: Strong moral principles are essential for fair play. Solidarity: Supporting others leads to mutual success. Tolerance: Accepting decisions you may not agree with fosters self-control. Care: Champions recognize the support and care that got them where they are. Excellence: Sport pushes us toward human excellence. Joy: True joy comes not from victory, but from playing well. Fair Play in Action WAKO and CIFP collaborate to promote fair play through various initiatives, teaching young athletes, coaches, and sports professionals about the importance of integrity in sport. Fair play isn’t just for the elite—it’s for everyone. Watch inspiring examples of Fair Play in Action: Fair Play Videos Explore real-life examples of acts of fair play: Watch here WAKO Fair Play Award WAKO, in partnership with CIFP, has introduced a Fair Play Award to recognize individuals who exemplify the values of fair play. This prestigious award has been given to the following individuals: 2016: Romeo Desa, Croatia 2019: Ali Hussein, Syria Get Involved with Fair Play Stay connected and informed through Fair Play’s social media channels: Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn YouTube Fair Play Resources Fair Play Handbook: Download the full handbook [here] (pdf). Test your knowledge with the Fair Play Quiz: Start the quiz . Fair Play and Society Fair play contributes to building a better society by fostering respect, tolerance, and integrity. Learn more about the impact of fair play here: Fair Play Society . Fair Play Handbook English (3 MB) WAKO Fair Play Award_4.06.2016 (918 KB) WAKO Policy Fair Play_4.06.2016 (783 KB)

Learn about the consequences of doping in kickboxing. Understand the impact on athletes’ careers, health, and the integrity of the sport. Consequences of doping Please download here below the listed material: Social consequences of Doping (285 KB) WAKO Athlete Supplements Handbook (2015) (442 KB)

Meet WAKO’s Athletes’ Committee, dedicated to representing the voice of athletes, promoting their well-being, and driving positive change in kickboxing. Athletes’ Committee WAKO’s mission is to place the Athletes at the heart of the Sport of Kickboxing. We are the Athletes’ Committee (WAKO AC) that serves as a link between the most important unit of the organization, the Athletes and WAKO. We make sure that the Kickboxers’ voices are heard and taking into proper consideration. Our motto is “ATHLETES FIRST” as without the athletes, there would be no need for sports organizations at all. Our mission is to ▪ Support and protect clean and fair sport ▪ Empower and ensure Athlete representation in the WAKO decision-making processes ▪ Support Athlete development in their sporting and non-sporting careers (Dual Career) ▪ Provide advices to the WAKO Board of Directors and maintain close cooperation with the WAKO Committees ▪ Ensure direct communication between the Athletes and WAKO ▪ Maintain a link with the IOC Athletes’ Commission ▪ Engage in relevant athlete-related projects If you are an Athlete, you can directly contact your country’s WAKO National Federation for more information on the national athletes’ committee or feel free to contact us for general guidance regarding athlete related issues on ATHLETESCOMMITTEE@WAKO.SPORT #HearYourVoice #WAKOkickboxing #WAKOAC #ATHLETESFIRST Useful links Athlete365 Discover the official community for elite Athletes and Olympians & download the APP IOC Athletes’ Commission WADA Discover the website of the World Ani-Doping Agency & download the APP WAKO Committees Check out the Members of the WAKO AC WAKO Rules Including the WAKO Anti Doping Rules & Equipment Book WAKO Policies Including the WAKO Guidelines Athletes Committee

Access WAKO’s comprehensive overview of kickboxing rules, ensuring fairness, safety, and consistency in global competitions. Rules Overview The WAKO Rules Overview outlines the essential guidelines and regulations that govern kickboxing competitions at all levels. These rules ensure fairness, safety, and consistency across all WAKO-sanctioned events, providing a clear framework for athletes, coaches, referees, and officials. From competition rules to conduct regulations, this section serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding how WAKO maintains the integrity of the sport. Explore the specific rules for each discipline, athlete responsibilities, and procedures to ensure compliance with WAKO’s standards. WAKO Parakickboxing rules – rev 0 – 29.11.2024 (845 KB) WAKO Equipment Book 04.05.2022 (10 MB) WAKO Rules - last revision 25.10.2022 (5 MB) WAKO Medical Rules – 30.01.2021 (2 MB) WAKO IF Board – NEW WAKO RULES Presentation – 27.06.2020 (774 KB) WAKO Referee Rules 05.11.2020 (2 MB) WAKO Anti Doping Rules – 30.09.2020 (821 KB)

Discover WAKO’s mission, history, and global impact as the leading organization for the sport of kickboxing worldwide. Historic Overview: The Story of WAKO WAKO's history is deeply intertwined with the evolution of kickboxing in the Western world. It all began in 1970 when the legendary Joe Lewis had what is now recognized as the first "kickboxing fight" against Greg Baines in the USA. This was a groundbreaking event—the first time boxing gloves were used, and the term "kickboxing" was mentioned. The sport gained further momentum in 1974 with the inaugural "World Championship in Full Contact" held in Los Angeles. Organized by pioneers Joe Lewis and Mike Anderson, it was a landmark moment for the sport. Kickboxing legends Bill Wallace, Jeff Smith, and Joe Lewis emerged as the first Full Contact World Champions. Building a strong and lasting world organization for kickboxing was a challenging task amidst the dynamic martial arts scene of the time. George Brueckner and Mike Anderson had the vision to create a global platform for the sport, leading to the formation of the "World All-Style Karate Organization," soon to be known as WAKO. WAKO's journey in Europe began in 1976, and the organization was officially founded in Berlin, Germany, on February 26th, 1977, by Mr. Georg Brueckner. The first-ever World Championships in semi and full-contact karate, as it was then called, took place in 1978, featuring 110 competitors from 18 countries. WAKO quickly established official rules and regulations, incorporating hand and leg techniques for amateur fights with a focus on safety. This marked the official adoption of the term "kickboxing," with WAKO positioning itself as the world’s authentic Kickboxing Federation. From 1984 to 2013, WAKO was led by Mr. Ennio Falsoni of Italy. Under his leadership, WAKO solidified its reputation as a respected international sports organization, hosting World Championships every two years across different continents. After decades of dedication, Mr. Falsoni now serves as WAKO’s Honorary President. For those interested in a deeper dive into WAKO's history, his book, "KICKBOXING: The Phenomenology of a SPORT," provides a comprehensive account. (To obtain a copy, contact WAKO HQ at administration@wako.sport or call +39 345 0135521.) Following an acting presidency from 2013 to 2015, Prof. Borislav Pelević of Serbia was elected WAKO President in November 2015 in Dublin, Ireland. Sadly, Prof. Pelević passed away in October 2018. The WAKO Board of Directors then appointed Mrs. Francesca Falsoni, Chairwoman of the WAKO Legal Committee, as Interim President in November 2018. Her leadership guided WAKO through an Extraordinary General Assembly, culminating in the election of Mr. Roy Baker of Ireland as WAKO President on February 2nd, 2019, in Milan, Italy. WAKO Kickboxing Today Kickboxing is a modern combat sport rooted in various traditional martial arts. As a distinct Western response to Eastern martial arts, kickboxing can be practiced both competitively and recreationally, promoting health, strength, and endurance. Today, WAKO proudly represents 130 affiliated nations across five continents, with 105 of these nations officially recognized by their National Olympic Committees or relevant government sports authorities.

Access WAKO’s Statutes and Bylaws, the foundational principles governing kickboxing’s global operations and organizational structure. Statutes and Bylaws The Statutes and Bylaws of WAKO form the legal foundation for how the organization operates. They outline the rules, structures, and procedures that govern WAKO’s activities and ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness across all levels. These documents define the roles of leadership, guide decision-making processes, and safeguard the values that WAKO upholds in promoting the sport of kickboxing globally. Please find here below attached: WAKO Statutes (approved by WAKO General Assembly on November 19th, 2023) WAKO ByLaws (approved by WAKO IF Board on April 28th, 2024) WAKO Statutes - approved on November 19, 2023 (795 KB) WAKO By Laws - approved on April 28, 2024 (978 KB)

Stay connected with WAKO on social media. Follow us for the latest updates, events, and stories from the global kickboxing community. Social Media WAKO recognizes the powerful role that social media plays in connecting athletes, fans, and the wider kickboxing community. To ensure that these platforms are used responsibly and align with the values of respect, fairness, and integrity, WAKO has established clear Social Media Policies. These policies guide how athletes, coaches, officials, and stakeholders should conduct themselves on social media platforms, helping to maintain a positive image for the sport while preventing misuse or misconduct online. The aim is to foster an environment of respectful communication, while also protecting the integrity of both individuals and the organization. This section provides guidance on: Appropriate online behavior Responsible use of personal and organizational social media accounts The consequences of violating WAKO’s social media policies Protecting personal and professional reputation online By following these policies, WAKO ensures that all members of the kickboxing community use social media in a way that reflects the spirit of sportsmanship and respect. WAKO Social Media Policy and Rules (181 KB)

Explore WAKO’s Anti-Doping Rules and Reports, ensuring fair competition, athlete integrity, and compliance with global anti-doping standards. Wako Anti-doping Rules and Reports WAKO/WADA work to ensure that athletes benefit from the same anti-doping protocols and protections, no matter the nationality, the sport, or the country where tested. The ultimate goal is safe and fair competition worldwide. WADA website What is WADA? video The World Anti-Doping Code (Code) is the core document that harmonizes anti-doping policies, rules and regulations within sport organizations and among public authorities around the world. In the below menu you can find the current in force WAKO Anti-doping rules and annual activity resports. WAKO Anti-Doping Rules_update_01.01.2021 (308 KB) WAKO Anti-Doping Report_2021 (200 KB) WAKO Anti-Doping Report_2017 (821 KB) WAKO Anti-Doping Report_2022 (821 KB) WAKO Anti-Doping Report_2019 (200 KB) WAKO Anti-Doping Report_2016 (308 KB)