Rules & Regulations

Participants in events organized by the American Grappling Association (AGA) are required to comply with the following behavioral guidelines:

1. Footwear Requirement: Competitors must wear shoes when not on the mat. Neglecting this rule could lead to disqualification.
2. Prohibition of Violence: Any form of violence will lead to immediate expulsion from the event and possibly a future ban from AGA events.
3. No Harassment Policy: Disrespectful behavior towards fellow competitors, referees, or staff is strictly forbidden and may result in ejection from the event.
4. Language Restrictions: The use of discriminatory language, including racist or sexist remarks, is grounds for removal and possibly a future ban from AGA events.
5. Anti-Intimidation Policy: Intimidating, harassing, or stalking another competitor, either online or in person, will result in ejection from the event.
6. Sportsmanship: Poor sportsmanship by a competitor can lead to disqualification, and similar behavior by a coach can result in their trainee’s disqualification and loss of coaching privileges.
7. Substance Abuse: Competing while under the influence of illegal substances or anything impairing judgment or physical ability is strictly forbidden by the AGA.

The American Grappling Association (AGA) is committed to ensuring fair competition, and as such, the following procedures are in place for reviewing officiating decisions:

1. Review Requests: All appeals must be filed at the Head Table, not with the match referee.
2. Scope of Review: Reviews will be limited to submission-related decisions and potential misapplications of the Allowable Techniques chart. Instances involving a competitor submitting (tapping out) are considered final.
3. Who Can Request: Only the competitor or their coach can request a review.
4. Timeframe for Review: Appeals must be lodged immediately after the match, within a 10-minute window. Late requests will not be considered.
5. Evidence Requirement: Video proof is mandatory for a review. Videos must be concise, focusing on the specific incident, and no longer than 2 minutes.
6. No Rematches: The outcome of a review will not result in a rematch.
7. Respectful Approach: All requests should be made respectfully. Any disrespect towards event staff or questioning of referees’ competence is not allowed.
8. One Review Per Division: Competitors are entitled to one review request per division.
9. Discretion of Head Table: The Head Table staff have the final say in review outcomes.
10. Possible Outcomes: A successful review could alter the match result to a submission victory/disqualification or other appropriate resolutions as determined by the Head Table.

The American Grappling Association (AGA) enforces a strict policy against sandbagging to maintain fair competition. This policy includes the following stipulations:

1. Definition of Sandbagging: Competing below one’s actual skill level is considered sandbagging.
   Examples of Sandbagging:
   -Adult Gi competitors participating below their
   -Adult NoGi competitors engaging below their assigned skill level.
   -Children competing below their rank, except in merged divisions.
   -Wrestlers with significant experience competing in lower divisions.
   -Judo black belts or Luta Livre practitioners (blue rank or above) competing in beginner divisions.
   -Catch wrestlers with extensive competition experience competing below their level.
   -Professional MMA fighters participating in beginner divisions.
2. Consequences for Adults: Adults caught sandbagging face disqualification and potential suspension from future AGA events.
3. Reevaluation of Competitor’s Level: In cases of sandbagging, the competitor’s level will be reassessed for fairness.
4. Repeat Offenses: Continued sandbagging can lead to extended suspension or a complete ban from AGA tournaments.
5. Handling Children’s Sandbagging: An educational approach will be taken for children. Their guardians and coaches will be counseled to ensure proper division placement.
6. Complaint Procedure: Pre-event sandbagging concerns should be emailed to AGA. On the day of the event, complaints should be directed to the Head Table.
7. Authority of Head Table: The Head Table has the sole authority to address sandbagging issues