What is classification?
Paralympic sport exists so that athletes with a disability have equal opportunities to compete and be successful in sport. Classification groups athletes who have similar impairments together into classes for competition in their particular sport. Each Paralympic sport has a different classification system.
Who may be eligible for Boccia?
An athlete who wishes to compete in Para-sport must have an eligible impairment that leads to a permanent activity limitation. An example of types of impairments that would could classify someone for Boccia would be:
Physical Impairment
Types of physical impairments for Paralympic sport are limb loss or limb deficiency, muscle weakness, hypertonia, ataxia, athetosis or joint restrictions.
Each sport specific classification system details the impairment types within their sport. Athletes are required to provide medical documentation for classification that details their impairment type and level of impairment. There are specific minimal impairment criteria that athletes must meet in order to be eligible for the sport to be eligible to compete in the paralympics. This is determined through a classification assessment.
For more information on sport-specific classification systems click here.
Why is classification required?
By grouping similar athletes together, an athlete’s disability plays less of an impact on the outcomes of competition. This means that classification helps to allow the fastest, strongest or best athletes in each class to succeed in their sport.
When is classification required?
If you want to compete in Boccia as an athlete with a disability, you must undergo a sports-specific classification assessment and hold a classification class. This isn’t required for general participation or social involvement in sport. To begin your journey to become a classified Boccia athlete you can complete the Provisional Classification Document at the bottom of this page.
How do I get a classification?
Please contact your state based sporting organisation if you have an impairment and want to ‘get involved’ in Para-sport or ‘get classified’ to compete against other athletes with a disability in a Para-sport. They will be able to assist you to get involved or provide details of opportunities to get classified. For Boccia specific classification details click here.
