Understanding Classification in Multi class (MC) Swimming
To ensure fair and equitable competition in Multi Class swimming, a system called classification is used. Its purpose is to ensure that success is determined by sporting factors such as skill, fitness, power, endurance, tactical ability, and mental focus – just as in able-bodied sport. Classification determines who is eligible to compete in Multi Class sport.
Key Points About Classification:
- It is sport specific. The same impairment may affect performance differently depending on the sport.
- Having an impairment alone is not enough. An athlete must meet specific classification criteria to be eligible.
- Classification helps to ensure that the outcome of competition reflects an athlete’s sporting abilities, not the extent of their impairment.
- It provides a level playing field for athletes with disability to participate and compete.
In Swimming:
Classification is the cornerstone of Multi Class Swimming.
- Athletes must have an eligible impairment and meet the minimum impairment criteria as set by the International Federation for that classification.
- There are five impairment groups – physical, intellectual, vision impairment, transplant and hearing impairment
- There are 14 eligible impairment types that are eligible under Australia’s Multi Class system.
- Once classified, a swimmer is assigned a Sport Class Status. This dictates the level of competition they can enter – club, regional, state, national or international.
All enquiries are to be directed to Swimming Australia in the first instance by emailing classification@swimming.org.au