Become a Certified Judge

Join hundreds of certified judges across South Carolina

How to Become a Certified SCBA Judge

1

Join the SCBA

Become a member of the South Carolina Barbeque Association. Membership is required to attend judging seminars and participate as a judge at SCBA-sanctioned events.

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2

Attend a Judges Seminar

Complete a full-day judges training program where you'll learn the techniques, standards, and skills required to judge SCBA barbeque competitions. The seminar includes a barbecue lunch prepared by an SCBA pitmaster.

View Upcoming Seminars →
3

Complete Your Apprenticeship

After completing the seminar, you'll sit at novice tables and learn from experienced judges at four SCBA-sanctioned competitions. You'll work under different novice instructors to gain a well-rounded understanding of the judging process.

Become Certified!

Once you've completed your apprenticeship, you'll be a certified SCBA judge, eligible to judge at any SCBA-sanctioned competition.

What Judges Evaluate

SCBA judges evaluate entries based on five criteria, with a maximum score of 17 points:

👁️
Appearance
👃
Aroma
🍖
Texture
😋
Taste
Overall

Advancement Opportunities

Once certified, judges can continue to advance through the ranks by gaining experience and taking on additional responsibilities at competitions.

Novice Judge Certified Judge Senior Judge Master Judge
View Advancement Requirements →

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PO Box 363, Irmo, SC 29063