€¦ · Web viewPNZ Classification Rules and Regulations and Handbook 4.0 October 2012Page 32 of 28. Classification. Handbook. Version 4. October 2012. Contents. 1

ClassificationHandbook

Version 4October 2012

Contents

1. Purpose.........................................................................................................3

2. Paralympics New Zealand Classification Strategy........................................4

3. Classification Definition.................................................................................5

4. History of Classification.................................................................................6

5. IPC Classification Code.................................................................................7

6. Sport Specific Classification Systems...........................................................8

7. Sport Classes................................................................................................9

8. Sport Class Allocation.................................................................................10

9. Eligibility......................................................................................................11

10. Impairment types.........................................................................................12

11. Provisional Classification.............................................................................14

12. National Classification.................................................................................15

13. International Classification...........................................................................15

14. Athlete Evaluation.......................................................................................16

15. NZ Athlete Classification Pathway...............................................................17

16. Classification Personnel..............................................................................18

17. Athlete Presentation for Evaluation.............................................................19

18. Athlete Assessment.....................................................................................21

19. Sport Class and Sport Class Status............................................................23

20. Notification of Sports Class and Status.......................................................25

21. Classification Protests.................................................................................26

22. Classification Appeals.................................................................................28

23. Pre- Competition Classification Tasks.........................................................29

24. Classifier Training and Certification.............................................................30

25. Classification Forms (Currently all under review)........................................32

26. Layman’s Guide to Paralympic Sport Classifications..................................32

27. Appendix 1..................................................................................................33

Sport International Federations...................................................................33

28. APPENDIX 2:..............................................................................................34

Glossary......................................................................................................34

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1. Purpose

This handbook is designed as an information resource for, but not limited to, athletes, coaches, officials, administrators and classifiers in New Zealand.

Subject content contained within this resource is defined to one or more separate pages for ease of subject printing.

Information contained within this resource includes:

Paralympics New Zealand Classification National Program

Definition Classification and the IPC Classification Code

History of Classification

Sports Specific Classification Systems and International Federations

Eligible impairments

Provisional Classification

Athlete Evaluation

Classification Personnel

Athlete presentation for Evaluation

Athlete Assessment and Sport Class Allocation

Precompetition Classification tasks

Protests and appeals

Classifier Training and Certification

Glossary

Appendices

For further information on classification please contact the Paralympics New Zealand office;

Paralympics New ZealandSuite 2.10, Axis BuildingA Cleveland Road, ParnellAuckland 1052New Zealand

Tel (09) 526 0760Email [email protected] or [email protected] Website www.paralympics.org.nz


http://www.paralympics.org.nz/

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

2. Paralympics New Zealand Classification Strategy

Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) is committed to developing a world leading Classification Programme that offers best practice in;

Athlete classification services and pathways across all sports from provisional to national level and the facilitation of opportunities for classification at an international level.

Classifier development through training, certification, pathways and resources.

PNZ adheres to the roles and responsibilities of a National Federation (NF), as outlined by the International Paralympic Committee, (IPC), to:

Ensure the PNZ Classification Rules and Regulations conform to the IPC Classification Code and establish procedures to address non compliance with the Code.

To promote and develop a National Classification Strategy, including education.

PNZ supports all Paralympic national sports to adhere to their International Sports Federation (IF) Classification Rules and Regulations.

The PNZ Classification Program has strong collaborative working relationships with;

IPC

International Federations

National Federations

PNZ National staff

PNZ Sport Specific Program Directors

Classifiers

Event Organizers

PNZ managed and invested sports

NSO managed and PNZ invested sports

NSO managed and invested sports

DSO managed and invested sports


3. Classification Definition

Classification ensures Paralympic sport competition is fair and equitable. All Paralympic sports have a classification system in place which ensures that winning is determined by skill, fitness, power, endurance, tactical ability and mental focus, the same factors that account for success in sport for able bodied athletes. Classification has two important roles;

To determine eligibility to compete To group athletes for competition

Classification is integral to Paralympic Sports as it minimises the impact of impairments on the activity (sport discipline). Impairment on its own though is not sufficient and the impact on the sport must be proven.In each Paralympic sport, the process of grouping athletes by the degree of activity limitation resulting from the impairment is called “classification”. Through classification, it is determined which athletes are eligible to compete in a sport and how athletes are grouped together for competition. This, to a certain extent, is similar to grouping athletes by age, gender or weight. Classification is sport-specific because impairment affects the ability to perform in different sports to a different extent. As a consequence, an athlete may meet the criteria in one sport, but may not meet the criteria in another sport.An efficient classification system must;

Enable fair and equitable competition Only measure functional limitations caused by the physical disability through

recognised validated tests Be as simple as possible so that it can be used in a consistent way in every

participating country Be sport specific Be based on scientific evidence.

The following should NOT under any circumstances affect an athlete's class in any sport; Sporting skills, natural talent or training effect Genetic superiority or inferiority Gender Body size or type The use of strapping for stability


4. History of Classification

In the 1940’s Dr Ludwig Guttmann founded Paralympic sport as an extension of the rehabilitation process.Sport classes reflected the structure of a rehabilitation hospital with separate classes for people with spinal cord injuries, amputation and those with other neurological or orthopaedic conditions.

Sport Drives ClassificationAs the Paralympic movement matured, the focus switched away from rehabilitation and was driven by sport.In the 1980’s, supported by the demands of Games’ organizing committees to reduce the number of classes in different sports, classification transitioned from medical to functional classification, a system still used in many Paralympic sports today (an exception being the classification system used for athletes with visual impairment which still remains medically based).Functional classification is sport specific because any given impairment may have a significant impact in one sport and a relatively minor impact in another sport. For example the impact of a below elbow arm amputee in swimming is greater than in running.

Paralympic Classification TodaySince the widespread adoption of functional systems of classification, Paralympic sport has continued to mature rapidly. An athlete’s classification had a significant impact on the degree of success they are likely to achieve, and the concept of functional classification, based on performance, was questioned.The Movement recognized the need to revisit classification and in 2003 the IPC Governing Board approved a classification strategy which recommended the development of a universal classification code, giving direction for the future of Paralympic classification.The Paralympic movement approved the IPC Classification Code in November 2007, which defines Paralympic classification as “accurate, reliable and consistent sport focussed classification systems”.

Future OutlookThe Paralympic movement is committed to the development of evidence based classification systems, so that athletes who enhance their competitive performance through effective training will not be moved to a class with athletes who have less activity limitation (as they would in performance classification system), but will be rewarded by becoming more competitive with the class they were allocated. All Paralympic sports must have classification rules and regulations which include processes and procedures to allocate sport classes that are in compliance with the IPC Classification Code.


5. IPC Classification Code

The IPC Classification Code (2007) helps support and co-ordinate the development and implementation of accurate, reliable and consistent sport focused classification systems, and to detail policies and procedures common to classification in all sport. It is hoped this will contribute to sporting excellence for all athletes and sports in the Paralympic Movement, providing equitable competition, through classification processes that are robust, transparent and fair.

The Code is complemented by International Standards that provide the technical and operational requirements for classification. Adherence to the International Standards is mandatory for compliance with the Code. There are three International Standards;

Athlete Evaluation: procedures for the assessment of athletes and the allocation of sport class and sport class status

Protests and Appeals: procedures for the management of classification related protests and appeals

Classifier Training and Certification: management of classifier training and certification

The Code applies to all sports within the Paralympic movement. The implementation of and compliance with the IPC Classification Code is monitored by the IPC Classification Committee.


6. Sport Specific Classification Systems

Each Paralympic sport has a different classification system, because each sport requires different abilities Each IF decides which impairment types their sport will cater for and how severe an impairment needs to be for an athlete to be eligible for their sport.

Sport classes are defined by each sport and are reflected in the sport’s classification rules together with processes and procedures on how athlete assessment is conducted. These classification rules are sport rules, and are governed by the respective IF and are subject to change. (Refer Appendix 1)

The IPC Classification Code requires all classification systems;

To identify eligible impairments for that particular sport

To describe methods for assessment of athletes so that the impact of the impairment on the activity is proven. Such methods must be based on ‘scientific evidence


7. Sport Classes

A sport class is a category which groups athletes depending on how much their impairment impacts performance in their sport. Therefore, a sport class is not necessarily comprised of one impairment type alone, but can be comprised of athletes with different impairments. However, these different impairments affect sport performance to a similar extent. For example, you will find athletes with paraplegia and double above-the-knee amputation competing in the same sport class in IPC Athletics because their different impairments have a comparable effect on their 1,500m wheelchair racing performance.

In individual sports, athletes compete against athletes in their own sport class to ensure the impact of impairment is minimized. In Rowing, for example, athletes compete in three sport classes, depending on whether they use their arms only, their arms and trunk only, or their arms, trunk and legs to accelerate the boat.

In national events and smaller international competitions athletes in different sport classes may compete together for one medal, because there are not enough athletes for each sport class to create a competitive event. In these cases, the different sport classes are replaced by coefficients to take the different levels of activity limitations into account.

Some Paralympic sports only have one Sport class, such as Powerlifting. To compete in these sports, the athletes only need to meet the minimal impairment criteria.

In team sports such as Wheelchair Rugby, the players are allocated points, which indicate their activity limitation. A lower score indicates a more severe activity limitation than a higher score. A team is not allowed to have more than a certain maximum sum of points on the field of play at the same time in order to ensure equal competition with the opposing team.


8. Sport Class Allocation

A sport class is allocated through athlete evaluation by classifiers. Each IF trains and certifies international classifiers and makes recommendations for the training and certification of national classifiers to conduct classification in its sport.

Classifiers for athletes with the various physical impairments listed below either have a medical or paramedical background or are technical experts in their sport. Athletes with visual impairment are classified by classifiers with a background in ophthalmology.. Psychologists and sport experts are involved with classification for athletes with intellectual impairment.

All NEW and REVIEW athletes report to classification at the designated time and follow the following process;

Athlete accreditation is verified and relevant medical documents collated Athlete is briefed on the classification process and signs a consent form Athlete will undergo a physical and technical assessment and may be observed in

training All relevant 3rd parties are informed of the classification and usually the protest

opportunities Athlete is usually observed during the 1st appearance or the event, depending on

the IF Sport rules and if changes are made to the original classification relevant parties are informed


9. Eligibility

The criteria detailing how an athlete may be considered eligible to compete shall be defined for each sport by the respective IF. Each IF shall have eligibility criteria based on the specific tasks required to compete in each sport. As a consequence, an athlete may meet eligibility criteria in one sport, but may not be eligible to compete in another sport. Eligibility to compete should be assessed in accordance with the classification rules and regulations for the IF.

To be eligible to compete, an athlete must have an impairment that leads to a permanent and verifiable activity limitation.

The impairment should limit the athlete's ability to compete equitably in elite sport with athletes without impairment.

If an athlete has an activity limitation resulting from an impairment that is not permanent and/or does not limit the athlete's ability to compete equitably in elite sport with athletes without impairment, the athlete should be considered ineligible to compete.

If an athlete fails to meet the eligibility criteria for a particular sport, the athlete will be declared ineligible for competition in that particular sport if an athlete is deemed ineligible for competition under the rules of an IF, this does not question the presence of a genuine impairment. This is only a ruling on the eligibility of the athlete to compete under the sport rules of the IF.


10. Impairment types

The Paralympic movement offers sport opportunities for athletes that have a primary impairment that belongs to one of the following 10 ‘eligible’ impairment types as follows.

Impaired muscle power: Impairments in this category have in common that there is reduced force generated by the contraction of a muscle or muscle groups (e.g. muscles of one limb, one side of the body, the lower half of the body). Examples of conditions included in this category are para and quadriplegia, muscular dystrophy, post poliomyelitis, spina bifida.

Impaired passive range of movement: Range of movement in one or more joint is reduced in a systematical way, (e.g. ankylosis, scoliosis, arthrogryposis) Note that hyper mobility of joints, joint instability (e.g. shoulder dislocation), and acute conditions of reduced range of movement (e.g. arthritis types of impairment) typically will be excluded as ‘eligible impairment’.

Limb deficiency: There is a total or partial absence of the bones or joints as a consequence of trauma (e.g. traumatic amputation), illness (e.g. bone cancer) or congenital limb deficiency (e.g. dysmelia).

Leg length difference: Due to congenital deficiency or trauma, bone shortening occurs in one leg.

Short stature: Standing height is reduced due to aberrant dimensions of bones of upper and lower limbs or trunk (e.g. achondroplasia).

Hypertonia: A condition marked by an abnormal increase in muscle tension and a reduced ability of a muscle to stretch. Hypertonia may result from injury, disease, or conditions that involve damage to the central nervous system. When the injury occurs in children under the age of 2, the term cerebral palsy is often used, but it also can be due to brain injury (e.g. stroke, trauma) or multiple sclerosis.

Ataxia: Ataxia is a neurological sign and symptom that consists of a lack of co-ordination of muscle movements. When the injury occurs in children under the age of 2, the term cerebral palsy is often used, but it also can be due to brain injury (e.g. stroke, trauma) or multiple sclerosis.

Athetosis: Athetosis can vary from mild to severe motor dysfunction. It is generally characterized by unbalanced, involuntary movements of muscle tone and a difficulty maintaining a symmetrical posture. When the injury occurs in children under the age of 2, the term cerebral palsy is often used, but it also can be due to brain injury (e.g. stroke, trauma).

Vision impairment: Vision is impacted by either an impairment of the eye structure, optical nerves or optical pathways, or visual cortex of the central brain.

Intellectual Impairment: The Paralympic Movement identifies intellectual impairment as “a disability characterized by significant limitation both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behaviour as expressed in conceptual, social and practical adaptive skills. This disability originates before the age of 18” (American Association on Intellectual and Development Disability, 2010). The diagnostics of intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour must be made using internationally recognized and professionally administered measures as recognized by INAS (International Federation for sport for para-athletes with an intellectual disability).

The Paralympic Movement adopted the definitions for the eligible impairment types as described in the World Health Organization International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (2001, World Health Organization, Geneva)


Each Paralympic Sport has to clearly define for which impairment groups they provide sports opportunities. This is described in the Classification Rules of each sport. While some sports include athletes of all impairment types (e.g. Athletics, Swimming), other sports are limited to one impairment type (e.g. Goalball, Boccia) or a selection of impairment types (e.g. Equestrian, Cycling)

The presence of an applicable eligible impairment is a prerequisite but not the sole criterion of entry into a particular Paralympic Sport.


11. Provisional Classification

Provisional classifications are temporary classifications allocated to an athlete and are valid until such time the athlete can be classified by a classification panel. Provisional classifications may be allocated to an athlete for a specific sport in one of, but not limited to, the following situations;

At an international event where a classification panel is not available At a national event where a classification panel is not available As a national entry level for athletes new to the sport

Provisional classifications may be allocated by; A classifier in a face to face consultation in conjunction with a medical certificate

of diagnosis A classifier on receipt of a medical diagnosis form and provisional classification

form

A provisional classification is valid for a limited period of time, as dictated by the IF or NF and may be subject to change upon classification assessment by the sports specific classification panel.Athletes may be eligible for medals, as dictated by the IF and/or NF but the athlete will not be eligible for records.


12. National Classification

A national classification is a sport specific classification carried out by a classification panel trained by the IF, or under the training recommendations set by the IF.

The classification process is the same process administered by the IF and outlined within Section 8 of this document.

A national classification is generally offered at national sport events where medals and records can be allocated to those athletes with a national classification.

13. International Classification

An International Classification is allocated to all NEW and REVIEW athletes reporting to an International Competition at an IF Sanctioned Event.

An International Classification is a sport specific classification carried out by the IF designated panel of International Classifiers. The classification process is the same process as outlined within Section 8 of this document.


14. Athlete Evaluation

When an athlete first starts competing he/she undergoes a process to verify they meet the eligibility criteria.

This process is conducted by a classification panel, a group of individuals authorized and certified by an International federation (IF) to determine the sport class of an athlete. The process (typically) includes;

Verification of the presence of an eligible impairment for that sport

Physical and technical assessment to exam the degree of activity limitation

Allocation of a sport class

Observation in competition

When undergoing athlete evaluation, an athlete is only classified for one sport.

If an athlete is not eligible to compete in a sport, this does not question the presence of a genuine impairment. It means that either;

The athlete does not have a primary impairment that makes him/her eligible to compete in that particular sport or;

The severity of the impairment does not significantly impact on the activities required in that particular sport.

Due to the progressive nature of some impairments and their impact on certain activities, athletes are sometimes classified a number of times throughout their career. When the medical condition of an athlete changes, he/she needs to inform the sport as well and ask for re-assessment.

To compete at international level, an athlete must be classified by an international classification panel and their decision overrules any previous classification decision taken by a national classification panel. As a result of the sport specific classification systems, each sport has its own classifiers.


PNZ National Class

Classified by an International Panel at an International Event

International Class

PNZ Provisional Class*

PNZ Registration Form for Athletes with an Intellectual Disability

currently

PNZ Provisional Classification Test Sheet

Complete Appropriate PNZ Forms

Expression of Interest to Compete

PNZ Blindness Grading Form

15. NZ Athlete Classification Pathway

Athletes with a PNZ Provisional class are not eligible for national or international records. Please note: Relevant forms are available from the PNZ website. Please forward all relevant forms and requested information to the PNZ Office (see page 3 for contact details).


Classified by PNZ National Classification Panel

16. Classification Personnel

Classifier A Classifier is a person authorized as an official by an IF or NF to evaluate athletes,

while serving as a member of a Classification Panel. The duties and responsibilities of a Classifier are detailed in the IPC International Standard for Classifier Training and Certification and the IF Classification Rules and Regulations.

Classifiers are trained and certified by an IF in accordance with the International Standard for Classifier Training and Certification.

Classification PositionsAn IF or NF shall establish the following positions:

Head of Classification: The Head of Classification is a Classifier responsible for the direction, administration, co-ordination and implementation of Classification matters for the IF.

Chief Classifier: The Chief Classifier is a Classifier responsible for the direction, administration, co-ordination and implementation of Classification matters for a specific competition.

Classification Panel Classification Panel is a group of Classifiers, appointed for a particular competition

by an IF or NF, to determine the Sport Class and Sport Class Status. This is done in accordance with the Classification Rules of the respective IF.

International Classification Panels, and recommended for NF Panels, must include a minimum of two Classifiers, unless an IF requires that more than two Classifiers constitute a Classification Panel.

During a competition members of a Classification Panel should not have any other official responsibilities that are not in connection with Classification.

Code of Conduct Each IF shall require all classifiers to comply with the Code of Conduct included in

the International Standard for Classifier Training and Certification.


17. Athlete Presentation for Evaluation

ReportingAthletes must report to classification at their allocated time. Failure to do so, and without reasonable explanation, may result in them not receiving a classification thus being ineligible to compete.

Athletes must dress appropriately in sports clothing and bring all equipment and devices as required by the sports classification rules including but not limited to: medical certificate of diagnosis and relevant medical documentation, assistive devices, competition and/or daily use wheelchair, competition and/or daily use prostheses and/or orthoses, any other device that they intend to use during the competition.

Athletes with a visual impairment must bring any spectacles/eye glasses and/or contact lenses used to correct vision to evaluation by the ophthalmologist..

The athlete may be accompanied by not more than one representative.

Incorrect presentation for evaluation is subject to not being seen for classification.

VerificationThe chief classifier or designated representative will meet the athlete and their accompanying support staff in a reception area to:

Verify the accreditation of the athlete and any accompanying support staff.

Check that the athlete has met all of the attire and equipment requirements for athlete evaluation in accordance with the sport’s classification rules

Collect any of the required documentation that was requested to be brought by the athlete.

A classification panel member may additionally request information on the health of an athlete prior to evaluation. Failure to provide this information may be deemed to constitute non-co-operation during evaluation.

If an athlete has a health condition that causes pain that limits or prohibits full effort during evaluation, they may not be appropriate for evaluation at that time. The chief classifier may, time permitting, re-schedule the evaluation.

Prior to the athlete assessment a classification panel member will brief the athlete and their accompanying support regarding the procedures involved in the classification process.

ConsentAthletes must consent to evaluation by signing a classification consent form to indicate their willingness to be classified and confirm their agreement to provide full effort and co-operation throughout the classification process.

The classification consent form shall remind athletes that failing to cooperate with classifiers or failure to complete the classification process may be subject to sanctions in accordance with “Non-co-operation during evaluation” or “Intentionally Misrepresenting Skills and Abilities” and the athlete may be subject to not receiving a classification.


The consent for classification is part of the classification rules of the IF and PNZ. Signing this agreement includes but is not limited to:

Willingness to undergo a complete classification process, including all components as required by the specific sport and to take part co-operating fully with classifiers

Acknowledgment that classifiers are not held liable for any pain or suffering experienced in the course of the evaluation

Agreement to allow photographs and/or videotaping for educational purposes.


18. Athlete Assessment

The Athlete Assessment may include, but is not limited to;

Physical Assessment

Technical Assessment

Observation Assessment

The physical assessment and the technical assessment take place during the classification evaluation period. The observation assessment takes place during the classification evaluation period (in case of official training sessions) and/or the classification competition period.

Physical AssessmentA classification panel should conduct a physical assessment of the athlete in accord with methods of assessment stipulated in the classification rules of the IF. The physical assessment may include, but is not limited to the examination of physical muscle strength, coordination, range of movement, sensorial, or intellectual abilities.

Technical AssessmentA classification panel should conduct a technical assessment of the athlete in accord with methods of assessment stipulated in the classification rules of the IF.

The technical assessment may include, but is not limited to the evaluation in a non-competitive environment of the specific tasks and activities that are part of the sport in which the athlete participates. Classifiers may apply certain conditions to the athlete in order to observe how the athlete performs the activity under simulated sport conditions (for example specific wheelchair skills/swimming strokes).

Classifiers must be confident that the athlete has performed to the best of his/her capacity during the technical assessment and may request greater effort to ensure optimal observation opportunity.

Observation AssessmentThe classification panel may observe the athlete performing the specific skills that are part of the sport during training practices and/or in an event, or during first appearance (if applicable to the sport) in accordance with the sports classification rules.

Video footage and/or photography may be utilized by the classification panel for all classification purposes connected to the competition.

Ineligibility and Re-evaluationIFs will have eligibility criteria clearly stated within their classification rules that defines eligibility to compete.

In circumstances where the determination of eligibility involves evaluation by a classification panel at a competition, and a sport class status of “Ineligible to Compete” is allocated, the athlete will be required to be examined by a second classification panel in accordance with the IPC Classification Code International Standard for Protests and


Appeals. If there is only one panel then the athlete will be reclassified at the next available opportunity If the second classification protest panel confirms that the athlete’s sports class is Ineligible, the athlete will not be permitted to compete, and will have no further protest option.


19. Sport Class and Sport Class Status

Every athlete wishing to compete in a competition must be allocated a sport class and a sport class status in accordance with the classification rules of the IF of the respective sport in which they want to compete.

Sport Class Sport class is a category defined by each IF in which athletes are categorized by reference to an activity limitation resulting from impairment.

Ineligibility for competition is a sports class. Each IF must stipulate eligibility criteria in their classification rules.

Sport Class StatusThe designation of a sport class status assists in identifying athletes who:

Have not previously been classified

Require a review of their sport class

Do not require athlete evaluation for a specific competition.

The following sport class status types are used by all IFs and PNZ:

NEW (N) Sport class status N is assigned to an athlete that has not been previously

evaluated by a classification panel and has not had an entry sport class verified by the IF or PNZ

Sports class status N athletes include athletes who have been allocated a national sport class by PNZ for entry purposes into an international competition or those athletes entering into a NZ competition who have a provisional classification only.

Sports class status N athletes must complete evaluation prior to competing at international or national competitions if classification is available.

REVIEW (R) Sport class status R is assigned to an athlete who has been previously evaluated

by an international or national classification panel, but for reasons as determined by the IF or PNZ requires a review of their sport class.

The athlete’s current sport class is valid, but the athlete is subject to re-evaluation and the sport class may be changed before or during competition

Sports class status R athletes must complete evaluation prior to competing at international or PNZ competitions and may include, but are not limited to, those :

o Requiring further observation during competition to confirm their sport class

o Fluctuating impairments


o Sports class is still subject to protest in accord with the first appearance requirements.

CONFIRMED (C) Sport class status C is assigned to an athlete if he/she has been previously

evaluated by an international or PNZ classification panel and the panel has determined that the athlete’s sport class will not change, except in the case of a protest lodged under exceptional circumstances.


20. Notification of Sports Class and Status

The athlete is assigned an initial sport class and sport class status after the physical and/or technical assessment has taken place.

Once the classification panel has made a decision on the athlete’s sport class, a member of the classification panel will inform the athlete of the panel’s decision. This should occur as soon as possible after the decision being taken. The athlete’s sports class status will also need to be updated accordingly. If the classification panel requires observation assessment to confirm the athlete’s sport class, the athlete will be informed.

If the most functional class is the sport class “Ineligibility to compete”, the athlete is immediately assessed by a second classification panel if there is one available. If not the athlete is reclassified at the next available opportunity. Written notification should be provided to the athlete informing;

The athlete’s assigned sport class

The athlete’s updated sport class status

Notification to third partiesAt the end of each session during the classification evaluation period, the chief classifier must convey the outcomes of the assigned sports class and updated sports class to the organising committee so that they can prepare start lists and make associated event management arrangements.

The organising committee has the responsibility to inform all relevant parties of outcomes of athlete evaluation after being advised by the chief classifier. This information is needed so that a protest of newly assigned sports classes can be fielded, in accordance with the requirement of the sport

Notification of Changes from ObservationIf any changes to an athlete’s assigned sports class are determined by the classification panel as a result of the observation assessment during the classification competition period, then;

A member of the classification panel shall inform the athlete, and the organising committee of the panel’s decision as soon as is logistically possible

Results may need to be adjusted by the organising committee in accordance with the sports and/or classification rules of the sport

The organising committee will have to make adjustments to start lists and schedule in accordance with the sports and/or classification rules

The organising committee must advise other teams and any other relevant parties of any associated changes as soon as possible in accordance with the sports and/or classification rules of the IF.

Written notification of any changes resulting from Observation Assessment during the Classification Competition Period must be provided to the Athlete including;

The Athlete’s assigned Sport Class

The Athlete’s updated Sport Class Status


21. Classification Protests

The term “Protest” refers to the procedure by which a formal objection to an athlete’s sport class is made and subsequently resolved.

Each IF will have protest procedures in its classification rules. These will include clear timelines for the submission and resolution of protests. Protests at National events should be submitted in accordance with the specific rules of the IF.

Protest Submission in Competition Protests at an IF event can only be submitted by a designated representative of a

NPC, NF or IF (Chief or Head Classifier).

Protests at a NF event, can only be submitted by a representative of a NF, National Team or the Chief or Head Classifier.

An athlete’s sport class should generally only be protested once, with the exception of protests submitted in Exceptional Circumstances (as explained below).

A protest in respect of a sport class allocated by an IF or NF may only be resolved by that IF or NF respectively.

Protests should be resolved in a manner that minimizes the impact on competition participation, and competition schedules and results.

A protest should not be resolved by the classification panel that was involved in the allocation of the sport class that is being protested, except if an international protest is submitted on a date 18 months or more after the most recent allocation of the sport class. In that case, the classifiers involved with the original allocation may be part of the protest panel. If a second classification panel is not available at a NF event then an athlete can only be re classified at the next NF classification opportunity..

The sport class status that is allocated to an athlete indicates the protest opportunities that are available in respect of that athlete’s sport class. The sport class status also indicates which parties may submit such a protest. This will be defined by the IF classification rules.

New and review sports class status athletes can be protested at an IF event by an NPC, NF or IF chief classifier and at a national event, by the NF, national team or chief classifier.

Confirmed status athletes can only be protested at an event by the chief classifier under exceptional circumstances.

Exceptional circumstances may result from;

A change in the degree of impairment of an athlete An athlete demonstrating significantly less or greater ability prior to or during

competition which does not reflect the athlete’s current sport class An error made by a classification panel, which has led to the athlete being allocated

a sport class which is not in keeping with the Athlete’s ability Sport class allocation criteria having changed since the athlete’s most recent

evaluation Protest made in exceptional circumstances shall follow the same process

Protest Procedures


International Federations shall detail in their classification rules how protests may be submitted in conjunction with a competition. These rules will outline the following;

Who is able to submit a protest and the fees payable The timelines for the submission and resolution of a protest Documents and other evidence to be submitted with a protest Notification of decision

New Zealand Paralympic sport events follow the process outlined by their respective IF protest rules with which a fee of NZ $50.00 is payable.

Out of Competition ProtestsThese are clearly outlined in the IF classification rules and such protests submitted for New Zealand Paralympic sports must be handled by the NF in accord to that outlined by the IF.


22. Classification Appeals

The term “Appeal” as used in the IPC Classification International Standard refers to a procedure by which a formal objection to the manner in which classification procedures have been conducted is submitted and subsequently resolved.

Each International Federation will have appeal procedures in its classification rules. These shall include clear timelines for the submission and resolution of appeals. Each International Federation will identify an Appeal Body in its classification rules.

Paralympics New Zealand supports national Paralympic sports to submit appeals to the PNZ or NF Appeal Board following due processes as outlined in the IF Classification rules.

The PNZ Classification Appeal Body may consist of, but not limited to, the following;

PNZ Representative

PNZ Medical Director

Head Classifier for the relevant sport


23. Pre- Competition Classification Tasks

Pre-competition classification tasks are outlined in each IF classification rules and regulations. Pre-competition classification tasks at a NF competition need to be in accord with that outlined by the IF for that sport.

Such tasks could include, but not limited to;

Inclusion of the classification rules in the agreement with the organizing committee for the event

Appointment of a chief classifier and classification panel

Identification of athletes for classification

Collection of supportive classification documentation

Preparation and dissemination of the evaluation period schedule

Organization of the classification logistics (venue,equipment, forms etc.)


24. Classifier Training and Certification

Classifier CertificationClassifier Certification establishes that an individual has met the competencies and is proficient to practice as a classifier in a sport.

IFs are solely responsible for the training and certification of international classifiers and will give recommendations and guidelines to NFs for the training and certification of national level classifier training and certification.

IFs may use any accepted training and certification techniques. This can include theoretical and practical education through online education and training courses, classroom training, practical training, mentorship and assessment of required competencies.

Each IF shall detail the levels of certification for classifiers. The minimum number of levels shall include;

National Classifier: A classifier who has attended and successfully passed the IF National Classifiers Training Course or achieved the outcomes for national level accreditation as recommended by the IF.

International Trainee: A national level classifier who is in the process of formal training by the IF, but who is not yet certified as an international classifier and may not be an appointed member of a Classification Panel at an international competition. This individual is unable to allocate an International sport class.

International Level 1: An individual who has successfully completed the formal training of the IF and has been certified to be a member of a Classification Panel at an international competition. This individual may participate in the assignment of sport class with minimum supervision of more experienced classifiers.

International Level 2: An individual, who has successfully completed the formal training of the IF and has demonstrated the appropriate level of experience as a classifier in the relevant sport, as determined by the IF. This individual may participate in the assignment of international sport class with no supervision from more experienced classifiers.

Assessing Competencies: Methods of obtaining certification include; theoretical education, practical education and training and mentorship.

Each IF shall detail the prerequisites for a classifier and the education, training and certification for each classifier level in their classification rules including, but not limited to;

Prerequisites required becoming a classifier in a specific sport.

Certification criteria for each level of certification and minimal criteria for advancement.

Essential components of classifier training curriculum, including sport history and rules, classification theory, practical training, advanced training in administration and management, professional conduct, and cultural differences and diversity.

Each IF shall determine the specific procedures used for the assessment of required competencies for certification of each classifier level in their classification rules. These procedures include, but are not limited to:


Methods of assessment used in measuring proficiency in the specific competencies assessed at each level (for example online courses, written and/or oral theory and practical examinations, practical training and workshops).

How each competency is evaluated using objective and measurable methods (for example completion of online courses, passing theory or practical examinations, completion of required hours of practical training and/or workshops).

Methods of approval of certification levels, pathway for advancement, maintenance of certification, and recertification.

Each IF shall describe the specific competencies and proficiencies required for maintenance of the certification of Classifiers.

Certification Pathway


Complete PNZ Classifier Application Form

Attend IF recognized national classification workshop

Attend PNZ recognized international classification workshop

Maintain required contact hours with the sport

Attend PNZ recognized event as part of a Classification Panel

Attend PNZ recognized international event as part of a classification panel

25. Classification Forms (Currently under review)

Refer to the PNZ website www.paralympics.org.nz

26. Layman’s Guide to Paralympic Sport Classifications

Refer to the Classification Page on the PNZ website www.paralympics.org.nz




27. Appendix 1

Sport International Federations

Alpine Skiing International Paralympic Committee (IPC)Archery Fédération International de Tir à l’Arc (FITA)Athletics International Paralympic Committee (IPC)Boccia Cerebral Palsy International Sport and Recreation Association

(CPISRA)Cycling Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI)Equestrian International Equestrian Federation (FEI)Football 5-a-Side International Blind Sport Association (IBSA)Football 7-a-Side Cerebral Palsy International Sport and Recreation Association

(CPISRA)Goalball International Blind Sport Association (IBSA)Ice Sledge Hockey International Paralympic Committee (IPC)Judo International Blind Sport Association (IBSA)Nordic Skiing International Paralympic Committee (IPC)Para Canoe International Canoe Federation (ICF)Powerlifting International Paralympic Committee (IPC)Rowing International Rowing Federation (FISA)Sailing International Foundation for Disabled Sailing (IFDS)Shooting International Paralympic Committee (IPC)Swimming International Paralympic Committee (IPC)Table Tennis International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF)Triathlon International Triathlon Union (ITU)Volleyball (Sitting) World Organization for Volleyball for Disabled (WOVD)Wheelchair Basketball International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF)Wheelchair Curling World Curling Federation (WCF)Wheelchair Dance Sport International Paralympic Committee (IPC)Wheelchair Fencing International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Federation ( Wheelchair Rugby International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Federation Wheelchair Tennis International Tennis Federation (ITF)


28. APPENDIX 2:

Glossary

Ability A quality or state of being able to perform.

Activity Limitation Difficulties an individual may have in executing activities.

Appeal The process to resolve procedural disputes concerning classification.

Athlete For purposes of classification, any person who participates in sport at the International Level (as defined by each IF) or national level (as defined by each National Federation) and any additional person who participates in sport at a lower level if designated by the person's National Federation.

Athlete Evaluation The process by which an athlete is assessed in accordance with the classification rules of the IF.

Athlete Support Personnel Any coach, trainer, manager, interpreter, agent, team staff, official, medical or para-medical personnel working with or treating athletes participating in or preparing for training and/or competition.

Chief Classifier The internationally certified classifier responsible for all direction, administration, co-ordination and implementation of classification matters for a specified competition.

Classification A structure for competition to ensure that an athlete’s impairment is relevant to sport performance, and to ensure that the athlete competes equitably with other athletes.

Classification Master List The list, made available by the IF, or NF that identifies the athletes that participated in international or national classification.

Panel A group of classifiers, appointed by the IF or NF, to determine sport class and sport class status in accordance with the classification rules.

Classification Rules The policies, procedures, protocols and descriptions that are in connection with athlete evaluation and the grouping of athletes for competition.

Classifier A person authorized as an Official by an IF or NF to evaluate athletes as a member of a classification panel.

Code The Classification Code.

Code of Conduct A set of rules to outline the responsibilities, to guide behavior and decisions and to identify best practice for an individual Classifier.

Competency A skill, knowledge, ability or behavioral characteristic that is associated with excellent performance.

Competition A series of individual Events conducted together under one ruling body.


Conflict of Interest A conflict of interest will arise where a pre-existing personal or professional relationship gives rise to the possibility of that relationship affecting the classifier’s ability to make an objective decision or assessment.

Consistent Free from variation or inconsistency.

Diversity The knowledge, skills, and attributes/beliefs that enable people to work well with, respond effectively to, and are supportive of people in cross-cultural settings.

Diagnosis A process of identifying a medical condition or disease by its signs, symptoms, and from the results of various diagnostic procedures.

Eligibility The type and minimum severity of impairment set as the minimal condition to enter competition in a specific Sport.

Evidence-based Practices or procedures on the basis of accepted (scientific) methods that have been shown valid, effective and reliable.

Head of Classification A Classifier responsible for all direction, administration, co-ordination and implementation of Classification matters for the IF.

Impairment Problems in body function or structure such as a significant deviation or loss.

In Competition The Athlete has the status of being selected for a specific Competition.

Ineligibility Consequence of not meeting the eligibility criteria.

International Competition A competition where an international sports organization (IPC, IF, Major Competition Organization, or another international sport organization) is the governing body for the Competition or appoints the technical officials for the Competition.

International Federation (IF) A sport federation recognized by the IPC as the sole world-wide representative of a sport for Paralympic Athletes that has been granted the status as a Paralympic Sport by the IPC.

IPC International Paralympic Committee.

IPC Classification Committee The IPC Standing Committee that is responsible for recommending policies, guidelines and procedures with respect to Classification within the Paralympic Movement.

IPC Code of Ethics The ethical standard that will be applied consistently within the Paralympic Movement, and will be applicable to all IPC Sanctioned Events, Competitions and activities.

Measurable Comparable to a standard.

Models of Best Practice Examples of excellence related to Classification.

National Competition A competition where the National Federation or National Paralympic Committee is the governing body for the competition or appoints the technical officials for the Competition.


National Federation (NF) The organization recognized by an IF as the sole national governing body for its sport.

National Paralympic Committee (NPC) A national organization recognized by the IPC as the sole representative of Athletes with a disability in that country or territory to the IPC. In addition, the recognized National Federation of the sports for which the IPC is the IF.

Objective Supported by (scientific) evidence or relevant facts and viewpoints.

Out of Competition Not In-competition.

Paralympic Games Umbrella term for both Paralympic Games and Paralympic Winter Games.

Permanent A health condition or impairment that is unlikely to be resolved and, meaning the principal effects are life-long.

Proficient Skilful in the practice of fundamentals deriving from knowledge, practice and experience.

Protest The procedure by which a formal objection to an Athlete’s sport class and/or sport class status is submitted and subsequently resolved.

Protest Panel A Panel consisting of at minimum an equal number of Classifiers as the Classification Panel, with equal or greater level of classification, expertise to assess an Athlete evaluation after a Protest has been submitted.

Public Disclosure Dissemination or distribution of information to the general public or to persons beyond those persons entitled to earlier notification.

Signatories The governing bodies of IPC, the International Federations and the NPCs that accept the Classification Code.

Sport Class A category defined by each IF in which Athletes are categorized by reference to an Activity Limitation resulting from impairment.

Sport Class Status A category allocated to each Athlete to indicate evaluation requirements and Protest opportunities.
