Just quietly - I think both need to be taken into account BUT, you can have all the qualifcations in the world but without practical experience it means nothing.

In an ideal world we would have a judges and referees course that was recognised by all santioning bodies in NZ which people were required to complete before judging or refereeing any fights.

But this is just not pratical for a number of reasons inlcuding expense, politics, logisitics and practicality.

Scotty is a good example of people who have both experience and qualifications.

My only concern with regard to beuraucracy and regulation is that it should not get to a point where it is a self fulfilling entity - any course(s) / requirements that gets put in place needs to be complimentary and not restricitve ...

Any way let the discussion roll on.