Potential Classifiers must meet the following competencies as well as attend virtual training sessions, an in-person training day, and classification at the Para Climbing Nationals.

The required Classifier competencies include:

• A thorough understanding of World Climbing (formerly The International Federation of Sport Climbing) Classification Rules;
• An understanding of Sport Climbing, including an understanding of the World Climbing Competition Rules;
• An understanding of the Classifier Code of Conduct and the International Standards; and
• A professional qualification(s), level of experience, skills and/or competencies in order to act as a Classifier for USA Climbing. These include that Classifiers must either:
  • Be a certified health professional in a field relevant to the eligible impairment category which USA Climbing at its sole discretion deems acceptable, such as a physician or physiotherapist/occupational therapist for Athletes with a Physical Impairment; or
  • Have an extensive coaching or other relevant background in climbing; or a recognized and reputable academic qualification which encompasses a requisite level of anatomical, biomechanical and sport-specific expertise, which USA Climbing at its sole discretion deems to be acceptable.

A Classifier who demonstrates competency and is certified will also be expected to attend meetings over the course of the year in order to support USA Climbing’s classification process continued development. Only a Classifier who passes the training course will be certified.

If chosen, a Classifier cannot be an active team PT or coach at the event.

Interested candidates should submit a CV and a letter of purpose to classification@usaclimbing.org.