Classifiers play a vital role in ensuring fair and equitable competition in Para sport.
These accredited officials assess athletes to determine their eligibility and allocate a sport class at the conclusion of the assessment. Classifiers are drawn from both medical backgrounds, such as doctors and physiotherapists, or through years of technical expertise.
Last month, Basketball Australia hosted a dedicated Classifier Workshop in Bendigo, Victoria, bringing together accredited classifiers from across the system.
The program included a panel discussion featuring former Gliders athlete Kathleen O’Kelly-Kennedy, Spinners athlete Rhys Higgins, and Spinners Assistant Coach and VIS Head Coach Jeremy Synot, who shared insights from both athlete and coach perspectives. Their contributions highlighted the importance of transparency and the role of lived experience in building confidence and trust in the classification process.
Basketball Australia’s Wheelchair Basketball Classification Lead, Krittika Divadkar said the workshop was an important step in aligning classification with athlete-first principles.
“Classification is fundamental to Para sport, and by investing in the development of our classifiers, we ensure athletes are supported by a system that is fair, consistent and centred on integrity.
“Athlete-centred classification is a key part of that commitment, with Basketball Australia continuing to invest in practices that ensure Para-athletes have every opportunity to perform on a fair and level playing field.”
This initiative reflects the Australian Government’s landmark June 2024 investment of $54.9 million in Para sport—the largest Paralympic funding commitment in the nation’s history. The additional funding doubles existing support and aims to address systemic and structural barriers by improving classification pathways, enhancing access to fit-for-purpose training environments, and providing specialised coaching and performance support.
"Improved athlete experiences of classification is one of the driving forces behind the new Australian National Classification Program, made possible thanks to the Para System Uplift,” Paralympics Australia’s General Manager - Classification and Pathways Melissa Wilson said.
“So, how better to achieve this than by talking directly to the athletes and asking ‘What can we do better?
“Additionally, one of the most exciting features of the enhanced classification support under the Uplift is a dedicated focus on the recruitment, training, development and retention of our volunteer classifier workforce.
“It is wonderful to see Basketball Australia hosting this opportunity, designed to amplify athlete voices and support the development of the classifiers simultaneously, all in the name of positive classification experiences for all."
Basketball Australia Executive GM – High Performance, Jason Smith added it was a game-changer for Para Sport.
“It strengthens classification, breaks down barriers and ensures our athletes have the best pathways to perform at their best.”
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