CLASSIFICATION

The PUKDS Classification Panel

Competitor Classification

The purpose of competitor classification is to create fair competition.

This is done by grouping competitors based on their individual abilities to perform certain functions that are required for each sport.

Police UK Disability Sport has created a classification system for the core sports so that it is fully inclusive.

The classification system has been created with the national sporting governing bodies classification in mind and has been adapted to include those that have no physical impairments, who have mental health conditions and/or neurodivergeant.

There are two Classification systems in use by PUKDS, for individual sports and team sports.

Individual Competitor Sports/Events:

Competitors in Individual sports are placed in categories determined by their impairment/s. Competitors will only compete against those in the same classification category.

Team Sports:

Competitors in team sports are grouped in to categories with fewer categories who are then awarded a point allocation for their category.

Each sport will have a highest number of points allowed on court at any one time, this creates fair competition as teams will need to manage their on court players so that they do not exceed the on court points total.

How does Classification Work?

Athlete Evaluation 

Classification is carried out through a process called “Athlete Evaluation” that comprises procedures for the assessment of athletes and the allocation of Competitor Categories.

Athlete Evaluation answers three fundamental questions: 

1. Does the athlete have an Eligible Impairment for this sport? 

2. Does the athlete’s Eligible Impairment meet the Minimum Impairment Criteria of the sport? 

3. Which Competitor Category should the athlete be allocated in, based on the extent to which the athlete is able to execute the specific tasks and activities fundamental to the sport?

To start your classification, please visit the dedicated pages of the sports you would like to take part in and make yourself familiar with the classification criteria for each group of competitors.

Please complete this form to organise an online appointment to get classified for your sports.

You will be asked a series of medical related questions on your membership application form which will be used to assess your current capabilities to perform the actions required for each sport.

If the classification panel requires any medical evidence or further information they may request access to your medical records through your GP or Consultant. This is to ensure that you are classified correctly, which would limit the possibility of further aggravation of existing conditions and prevent injury.

Your medical information will not be shared without your consent.