Classification
Classification
Like all Paralympic sports and all other IBSA sports, athletes have to go through a process of classification to play goalball.
Classification is an assessment of a person’s ability and impairment. It helps to ensure that Para sports remain fair.
The first stage is to go through a series of tests to ensure that a player has an ‘eligible impairment’. This means that their disability effects their ability to play goalball according to some minimum requirements.
The next step is for an athlete to be given a ‘sport class’ according to the results of tests and medical evidence that they provide to classifiers.
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In goalball, the sport classes are B1, B2 or B3. B1 and B2 players have the most severe impairments.
In goalball all athletes compete together on the same team but have to wear eyeshades. This helps to ensure a level-playing field for all team members.
IBSA Goalball is carrying out a research project to create a classification system which is specific to goalball. This is a requirement of being on the Paralympic programme.
More information about classification, how it works and what athletes can expect from the current process can be found below:
Classification overview For athletes and teams For current or trainee classifiers
