He kicked against the attitude of some referees at the various levels of the sport for being unenthusiastic at periodically upgrading their knowledge about officiating taekwondo.

“Practitioners must develop the passion to part with their money rather than relying on free programs because it is by so doing and with more money, that they can get to the elite referees’ status.

“No matter what you think or have as a previous knowledge on officiating, you won’t make any sensible money as a referee.

“But you could gain far-reaching status, recognition, and worldwide connections.

“Note that as a state or country taekwondo referee, you need to be going for lots of training seminars, get mentoring and practice from those who are well-informed,” he said.

Oluigbo, also an International Referee (IR), emphasized the need for members to endeavor to bring themselves at par with their fellows ahead of openings.

“If you are an IR, then ask yourself how really international are you; the truth is that you need to travel, officiate overseas and most importantly pay your annual IR dues.

“The implications can be unpleasant, for example, if you have not been financially active for close to five years, then you have been archived as an IR, it’s that bad.

“Anyone at this stage and point of the career has automatically reverted back to just a taekwondo referee because he has practically lost track and just hanging on,” he said.

According to the GM, it takes commitment to maintain a professional international status, adding that there are simple and tested ways of developing self and keep up with the elite professional status.

“Do not get obsolete, deceived, or by pretending that you know, rather be true to the art with confidence and avoid limiting self due to challenges,” he urged referees.

Oluigbo, also a fellow of the Institute of Management Consultant, Sports Management, Martial Arts Studies, and Competition Manager, said that various World Taekwondo-organised IR Kyorugi refresher courses were usually held.