Wheelchair & Ambulatory Sports, USA

Classification is the process of grouping athletes with similar abilities together for fair competition.  It is performed by a medical classifier and a technical classifier conducting a physical evaluation of an athlete which includes a bench test followed by functional skills test relevant to the sport(s) contesting.  Athletes are then observed in competition to confirm the classification. 

What is Regional versus National versus International Classifications?

*      A Regional classification is good for local or regional competitions and can be completed at a local level by minimally a certified Regional Medical Classifier or one National Classifier.  Regional Classifiers or one National Classifier cannot change a National Classification. 

*      A National Classification requires two certified National Classifiers with minimally one being a National Medical Classifier with the other being a National Technical or Medical Classifier.  National Classifiers or one International Classifier cannot change an International Classification.  

*      An International Classification requires International Classifiers completed at an International competition. 

It is not uncommon for an athlete to be given a classification but placed in Review status (r) when the athletes’ class cannot be confirmed and the classifiers either need to observe the athlete further in competition or be re-examined on the bench.  Athletes that have a progressive type disability should be placed in (r) status as an alert that athlete needs to be re-examined the next year. 

What is functional versus medical classification? 

Medical classification was designed for athletes who have a spinal cord injury and is based purely upon a bench test by a physical therapist, occupational therapist, or medical doctor.  It does not take into consideration the functional skills required for each specific sport.  Functional classification consists of a bench test, consideration of the functional skills required in each sport, and observation of the athlete in competition.  There is a different functional classification numbering system for each sport and considers all physical disabilities in the process.  Functional classification is the system that is used on a regional, national, and international basis and by all disability sport organizations, including WSUSA.  If you have a medical classification and would like to participate in a WSUSA event, you will need to schedule a functional classification.

Do athletes need to be reclassified every three years?

Athletes that do not have a progressive disability do not need to be reclassified unless there has been a noted change in function/performance or by request.  Coaches or athletes can request to have their classification reviewed if there has been a medical change such as a tethered cord release, spinal fusion, or a progression of the disability. The Request for Classification Review form must be submitted by the registration deadline to assist with the preplanning of the classification schedule for that event. Classifiers should observe all athletes in competition to determine if there has been a functional change in the athlete’s performance either better or worse.  If this is observed, the classifier can put an athlete in Review (r) status placing them on the classification list to be reviewed at the next competition.  Remember only 2 National Classifiers can change an athlete’s classification.  A Regional Classifier or one National Classifier cannot change a National Classification but can place an athlete in review status to be re-examined at a National Event.