How Do I Become a Para Bowls Classifier? 

The first step in becoming a Para Bowls Classifier is to apply to become a National Classifier in Canada. Bowls Canada’s Classifier Certification Pathway outlines the ways in which you can do this. The information is also outlined below: 

Qualifications to Become a National Classifier 

There are two types of classifiers: 

  1. Medical Classifier  
    • Physiotherapist 
    • Medical Doctor 
    • Occupational Therapist or other health professional with required medical knowledge, including anatomy, physiology and pathology. 
  1. Technical Classifier  
    • Experienced in competitive bowls, coaching, umpiring, etc. 

General Requirements for all National Classifier Candidates 

  • Participation in an IBD accredited classification seminar 
  • Pass a competency evaluation (open book written exam) 
  • Have a working knowledge and be conversant in the English language 

Requirements to Remain Qualified as a National Classifier by IBD 

  • Classify a wide variety of disabilities 
  • Respond to correspondence in a timely manner 
  • Officially classify at least once a year (authorization is lost if inactive for a period of 12 months or more) 
  • Forward copies or scans of all classification documents to the IBD Head Classifier 
  • Submit to ongoing evaluations by IBD 
  • Observe the IBD Classifier Code of Conduct at all times 

How Do I Apply To Become A National Classifier?

  1. Complete the information found in the National Classifier Application Form. 
  2. Contact Bowls Canada at office@bowlscanada.com to learn more about upcoming opportunities.   

Upcoming Classifier Training Opportunities

September 10th to 12th , 2022 – Windsor, Ontario.   

  1. A limited number of applicants will be selected. You will be notified by August 5, 2022 if you are selected to attend. This is a fully funded, volunteer opportunity. Bowls Canada will cover all costs associated with travel, accommodations and meals for those selected.
  2. Submit the following required documentation to office@bowlscanada.com by July 27, 2022: 
    1. Completed Application Form found on pages 4 & 5 of the National Para Bowls Classifier Information Package PLUS 
      1. Medical Classifier applicants: Certificate of graduation in one of the health fields listed above 
      2. Technical Classifier applicants: Resume of experience in competitive bowls as either a coach or an official
  3. Attend Classifier Training September 10th – 12th, 2022 in Windsor, ON (Windsor Lawn Bowls Club). Training will be delivered by the International Bowls for the Disabled (IBD) Head Classifier according to the following schedule: 
    1. September 9th Arrival 
    2. September 10th Theory session  
    3. September 10th Practical session  
    4. September 11th Athlete Classification 
    5. September 12th Competition Observation 
    6. September 13th Departure 

To download as a PDF, press on the following link: National Para Bowls Classifier Information

Resources

Bowls Canada Para Bowls Classification Resources – https://bowlscanada.com/en/programs-resources/para-bowls/classification-resources/

International Bowls for the Disabled – http://www.interdisabledbowls.org/  

IPC Classification Code – https://www.paralympic.org/classification-code  

 

For more information, please contact: 

Bowls Canada, office@bowlscanada.com