New dance sport classification, sport rules introduced

World Para Dance Sport has published its new Technical Rules and Regulations and Classification Rules and Regulations and invited potential classifiers to apply for a new training programme.

The new classification rules includes changes to the classification system for the sport, with a new assessment now taking into consideration the different sport disciplines. Latin, standard and freestyle demand different skills and movements from dancers, which will now be reflected in the classification process.

The changes were announced in June 2016 and were subject to a consultation process with the sport’s community.

All licensed athletes will have to be classified again in 2017, with the first opportunity to do so at the Cuijk 2017 Para Dance Sport international competition in the Netherland from 15-16 April.

Further competitions to take place this year include the Para Dance Sport Polish Open in Poland between 20-21 May and the Para Dance Sport Mainhatten Cup in Germany from 17-18 June.

The World Para Dance Sport Championships in Malle, Belgium, from 21-22 October will then be the highlight of the 2017 competition calendar.

The new classification rules include the adoption of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Classification Model Rules. These are designed to ensure the sport is compliant with the 2015 IPC Athlete Classification Code, which must be done by 1 January 2018.

World Para Dance Sport is also offering a course for international classifiers in Warsaw, Poland, on 18-20 May. Applicants must have completed the free online course, Introduction to Para Sport, and have an interest in Para dance sport.

They should also be a certified health professional and have extensive coaching or other relevant background in the sport.

More information, including the application form, will be available at World Para Dance Sport’s website.