Update re Boccia Rule 4.0 – Gloves and Splints

For the past few years classifiers and referees have noted a discrepancy between what is written in BISFed International Boccia Rules – 2021 – 2024 (v.2.0) rule 4.0 regarding gloves and splints and what is in the standard classification procedures.  

To clarify, in Canada, this is the process that will be followed: Per Rule 4.0, a glove or splint is a piece of equipment. Athletes who choose to play using a glove or splint therefore need to bring it to equipment check. Referees will document gloves and splints during equipment check.  

In Canada, classifier approval will not be required to use a glove or splint. This is a departure from the statement in Rule 4.0 that Gloves, splints or other similar devices that the Athlete uses on court need documented approval from a Classifier which must be brought to Equipment Check. 

Rationale
Although Rule 4.0 indicates that athletes need to provide documented approval from a Classifier to use a glove or splint, the BISFed and Boccia Canada classification procedure manuals do not include a provision for this. The only classification profile that specifically references gloves or splints is the BC4 class. Classifiers document equipment, but do not approve it, and there is currently no criteria by which gloves or splints can be assessed.