Become A Classifier
Classification is fundamental to fair and meaningful competition in Powerchair Hockey. IPCH Classifiers assess athletes according to the IPCH Classification Rules and the IPC Classification Code, ensuring that Sport Classes reflect the impact of an athlete’s eligible impairment on the fundamental activities of the sport.
The IPCH Classification Pathway combines theoretical education, practical training and supervised experience, preparing classifiers to evaluate athletes consistently, professionally and ethically at national and international competitions.
Classifier Responsibilities
IPCH Classifiers are certified officials who evaluate athletes as members of a Classification Panel, applying the IPCH Classification Rules consistently and impartially to ensure fair competition.
Their responsibilities include:
- Serving as a member of an IPCH Classification Panel.
- Reviewing athlete documentation and conducting medical, functional and sport-specific assessments.
- Determining Sport Class and Sport Class Status in accordance with the IPCH Classification Rules.
- Applying the Minimum Impairment Criteria (MIC) and all classification procedures consistently.
- Participating in Protest Panels, when appointed.
- Attending classifier meetings during competitions and classification opportunities.
- Assisting with classifier education, mentoring and training activities.
- Participating in classification meetings and ongoing development throughout the year.
- Conducting classification activities at national and international level, where applicable.
Classifier Eligibility
Candidates must have an appropriate professional or sport-specific background relevant to one of the two classifier profiles recognised by IPCH.
All candidates must demonstrate:
A thorough understanding of the IPCH Classification Manual .
Knowledge of the IPC Classification Code and relevant International Standards for Classification.
Good spoken and written English.
Completion of the IPC Academy – Introduction to Para Sport course.
A commitment to impartiality, ethical conduct and the avoidance of conflicts of interest.
A demonstrated interest in Paralympic sport and Powerchair Hockey.
Good command of both spoken and written English.
Knowledge of Powerchair Hockey, including its technical rules and sport-specific demands, is considered an advantage.
Medical Classifier
Medical Classifiers are qualified healthcare professionals, such as physicians or physiotherapists, with expertise in the eligible impairments relevant to Powerchair Hockey. They assess the medical aspects of an athlete’s impairment and contribute their clinical expertise throughout the classification process.
Technical Classifier
Technical Classifiers have an extensive background in Powerchair Hockey, typically as experienced coaches or players, or hold relevant qualifications in sport science, biomechanics, kinesiology or physical education. They evaluate how an athlete’s eligible impairment affects the execution of the sport’s fundamental activities and apply their sport-specific knowledge during the classification process.
Classifier Education Pathway
The pathway combines theoretical education, practical training and supervised experience.
Candidates begin with the IPCH Classifier Seminar, followed by practical classification opportunities and supervised practice. Depending on their experience and qualifications, candidates may initially serve as Trainee or National Classifiers before progressing towards International Classifier certification.
Throughout the pathway, candidates are assessed against the competencies required by the IPCH Classification Rules.
Ready to Start?
Interested in becoming an IPCH Classifier? Contact the classifier committee to learn about upcoming seminars, education opportunities and certification pathways.