By Caoilte de Barra
Romania recently held their first-ever official cutman and cutwoman course. Technical director for the Romanian Kempo Mixed Martial Arts Federation (RKMMAF) George Stanciu managed the course, which was delivered by Robert “Bob” Plant. It provides the necessary groundwork for individuals looking to be part of the incredibly successful IMMAF Cut Team.
The course was a vital step forward for the sport in Romania as they look to build a cut team in the country. Following the event, Stanciu explained the need for the course and how he expects it to benefit other martial arts in Romania. He said:
“The course was a necessary initiative for Romania, being the first official cutman and cutwoman course held in the country. It was also necessary, at this time, to have a team of people in this field to help increase professionalism for MMA competitions. The course was much appreciated by all those who took part in it and enriched their knowledge. Both theoretically and practically with protocols.”
A cut team is absolutely necessary for every sporting competition to provide a safe contribution to the athletes. From bandages to the management of situations that could make the matches risky for the athletes. This is the first official cut team course in Romania, and I am sure that the team that took part will add value not only in MMA Competitions but also in Boxing and Kickboxing. Another important aspect is the educational aspect. Things are also evolving in contact sports, and it is necessary to follow the progress wherever possible.”
He added how some of the participants are looking to travel to the next set of Championships to join the IMMAF cut team. Something George encourages due to the lack of professional events in Romania for cutmen and cutwomen to gain experience.
“We will definitely encourage those who took the course to be part of the team at the international championships. Some of them are already eager for it. It would be a great experience for them. Their ability will change a lot after tens of hours as cut people for such a large number of athletes and matches. You can gain such an experience in years if the cut team practice their skills only in the professional galas, which in Romania are few and far between.”
Before this, the RKMMAF welcomed courses for referees and coaches. The addition of the cut team course is the progress they are looking to continue to build on this year.
“Together with the Romanian Kempo Federation, we grew to show the community the support of the events. At the moment, the federation sanctions all the professional MMA events in Romania. The first education program we managed to have was for international referees, then coaches, and now there is one for cut people. We hope that things continue at least at the same pace.
“For this year, from an educational point of view, we would like to invite Mr Marc Goddard, Director of Regulatory Affairs, to take the IMMAF International Arbitration Course once again. We hope this happens in the fall.”
