Judge Advancement Levels
Progress through the ranks as you gain experience
Novice Judge
Entry LevelThe starting point for all SCBA judges. Novice judges are learning the ropes and developing their palate under the guidance of experienced judges.
Requirements:
- Active SCBA membership
- Completion of SCBA Judging Seminar
Certified Judge
StandardCertified judges have demonstrated their ability to consistently and fairly evaluate barbeque entries according to SCBA standards.
Requirements:
- Attend the SCBA Judging Seminar
- Judge at 4 SCBA-sanctioned contests under novice instructors
- Work under 4 different novice instructors
Senior Judge
AdvancedSenior judges have extensive experience and have demonstrated commitment to SCBA by participating in various roles beyond judging.
Requirements:
- Judge at 15 total SCBA-sanctioned contests
- Participate as a cook with a team
- Serve as a runner at a contest
- Work the receiving table at a contest
Master Judge
EliteThe highest rank represents significant commitment and expertise. Master judges are the backbone of SCBA competitions and serve as mentors to newer judges.
Requirements:
- Judge at 30 total SCBA-sanctioned contests
- Cook with 2 additional different teams
- Serve as a table assistant
- Function as a table captain
Additional Leadership Roles
Experienced judges may also take on these specialized roles at competitions:
Table Captain
Leads a judging table and ensures proper procedures
Novice Instructor
Mentors new judges through their apprenticeship
Calculator
Manages scoring and tabulation at contests
Event Marshal
Oversees entire competition operations