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.

Join Now →
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.

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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 115, Blythewood SC 29016