Player Classification

Classification is a way of grouping players into levels of impairment, in order to make sure that players are competition on a level playing field.

The performance pathway for Boccia leading to the Paralympics is only open to those players who meet the criteria of the international classification for the sport.

There are four ‘Boccia Classes’ so have a look and see which one describes your ability best. There are also playing opportunities for those players who do not fit into these classifications.

BC1: Cerebral Palsy

  • Locomotor dysfunction affecting whole body
  • Mostly unable to propel manual wheelchair, may have no functional ability in legs
  • Trunk often involved in head and arm movements
  • Has difficulty in changing sitting position in chair
  • Poor grip and release of ball, sufficient strength to propel consistently with hands or feet

BC2: Cerebral Palsy

  • Locomotor dysfunction affecting whole body
  • May be able to stand or walk but will lack stability
  • Able to control trunk but with associated limb movement
  • Has difficulty in replicating shoulder movement
  • Superior grip and release of ball compared to a BC1, able to slowly spread fingers

BC3: Cerebral Palsy or Non Cerebral Palsy

  • Locomotor dysfunction affecting whole body
  • Likely to use electric wheelchair, will play with assistive device (ramp)
  • Trunk control will vary
  • Poor coordination of movement, unable to consistently release a ball in same direction
  • Insufficient grip and strength to consistently propel a ball into play

BC4: Non Cerebral Palsy

  • Locomotor dysfunction affecting whole body
  • May be able to propel a manual wheelchair
  • Poor dynamic trunk control, will require assistance of head or arms to return upright
  • Range and coordination of movement poor, unable to do rapid movements
  • Poor grip and release of ball, but sufficient strength to propel a ball consistently

The full set of rules are available in the Resources section, or can be obtained by calling the Boccia England office on 0115 967 8455.