Red River Judo – Participation Waiver & Agreement

Location: 17 7th St S, Suite 201, Fargo, ND 58103

1. Acknowledgement & Assumption of Risk

I understand and acknowledge that Judo and related martial arts involve strenuous physical activity, including throws, takedowns, grappling, joint locks, and conditioning drills. Participation carries inherent risks, including but not limited to:

• Sprains, strains, fractures, joint injuries
• Concussion or head injury
• Serious injury, permanent disability, or death
• Social or economic losses resulting from my actions or inactions; the actions or inactions of others; equipment failure; facility conditions; or the rules of Judo itself

I further acknowledge that there may be risks that are not known or reasonably foreseeable at this time.
I voluntarily choose to participate with full knowledge and acceptance of all such risks.

2. Safety Responsibilities

I agree that before participating in any class, drill, open mat, or event:

• I have the right and duty to inspect the mats, equipment, and training area.
• If I believe anything is unsafe or beyond my ability, I will immediately notify an instructor, coach, or supervisor.
• I will not participate until the issue is resolved.

I understand that injuries must be reported immediately and that any blood or bodily fluids must be cleaned at once according to safety guidelines.

3. Hygiene & Uniform Requirements

To maintain a safe and respectful training environment, I agree to the following:

1. No food, drink, or chewing gum on the mat. Water may be kept at mat side.
2. Fingernails and toenails must be kept clean and trimmed.
3. All participants are expected to maintain good personal hygiene.
4. A clean Judo uniform (Judogi/Gi) must be worn to class.
5. A t-shirt or rashguard must be worn under the jacket. Shorts, tights, or compression pants should be worn under the Gi pants.
6. Long hair must be tied back securely.
7. All jewelry must be removed before practice.
8. No participant may train under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Anyone suspected of being impaired will be removed from practice.

4. Dojo Etiquette

I agree to uphold proper dojo etiquette, including:

1. Be on time. Students arriving late must wait for permission to step on the mat, bow in, and greet the class.
2. Consistent lateness may be considered disrespectful or a lack of commitment.
3. Attend classes regularly—repetition and consistency are essential to learning Judo.
4. Black belts will be addressed as Sensei; non–black belt instructors as Coach.
5. Students are encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification.
6. Red River Judo does not tolerate discrimination based on race, ethnicity, creed, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, height, weight, disability, veteran status, or marital status.
   • Any concerns regarding discrimination or harassment must be reported immediately to staff, and we will take all reasonable steps to resolve the issue.

5. Release of Liability

In consideration of being allowed to participate in training or events at Red River Judo, I hereby release, discharge, and agree not to sue:

• Red River Judo
• The United States Judo Association (USJA)
• The United States Judo Federation (USJF)
• United States Judo, Inc. (USA Judo)
• All affiliated clubs, owners, directors, instructors, coaches, volunteers, employees, event officials, medical personnel, other participants, and facility owners or lessors

(collectively referred to as “Releasees”).

This release applies to all claims, demands, losses, or damages arising from any injury—including permanent disability or death—or property damage, whether caused by the negligence of the Releasees or otherwise.

6. Media Use Consent

By entering Red River Judo, I grant permission for myself or the minor I am signing for to be photographed, filmed, or recorded. I authorize Red River Judo to use such images, video, or audio for promotional, educational, or documentation purposes without compensation.

I understand I may request removal of specific media at any time, when reasonably possible.

7. Right of Refusal

I agree that Red River Judo retains the right to refuse or discontinue training to any participant for any reason, including safety concerns or violations of dojo policy.

8. Payment Authorization – Card on File

I authorize Red River Judo to securely store my credit/debit card information for future transactions, including but not limited to:

• Membership payments
• Class dues
• Event fees
• Equipment purchases

This authorization remains in effect until I request termination in writing.

9. Parent/Guardian Acknowledgment (For Minor Participants)

If I am signing on behalf of a minor participant (age 17 or under), I acknowledge and affirm the following:

I am the parent or legal guardian of the minor named in this agreement. I have explained the risks, rules, and expectations outlined in this waiver to the minor in a manner they can understand. I recognize that Judo is a full-contact martial art that carries inherent risks, including the possibility of serious injury or death. I voluntarily permit the minor to participate with full understanding and acceptance of these risks.

I agree to assume complete responsibility for the minor’s safety, conduct, and adherence to all Red River Judo policies. I further agree to release, indemnify, and hold harmless the Releasees from any claims arising from the minor’s participation, whether caused by negligence or otherwise.

10. Acknowledgement & Signature

By signing below, I acknowledge that:

• I have read and fully understand this waiver and agreement.
• I understand I am giving up substantial legal rights, including the right to sue the Releasees.
• I sign freely and voluntarily.
• If signing on behalf of a minor, I certify that I am their parent or legal guardian and consent to their participation.

Participant Name:

Parent/Guardian (if applicable):

{sign_date}
Electronic signatures are legally equivalent to handwritten signatures for all purposes.