2010 FISA Adaptive Rowing Classifier Workshop
February 5-7, 2010
Tampa, Florida

On January 1, 2010 the FISA Classification program will be updated, requiring all International Athletes to be re-classified for 2010 FISA rowing regattas, and for both National and International classifiers to be re-trained on the new structures and processes.

In order to continually align to the updating environment of World Rowing, USRowing will this year host a National Adaptive Rowing Classification Workshop in Tampa, FL. The workshop will be presented by Judy Morrison (FISA Head of Classification, FISA International Medical Classifier, Member of FISA Adaptive Commission) and Rebecca Thomas (FISA International Technical Classifier).

This workshop is the first requirement for an individual seeking to re-new their accreditation as a National Classifier, or to be trained to be a National Classifier. The workshop will also allow an opportunity for athletes to be classified as a National Adaptive Rower.

Dates
Friday and Saturday, February 5-6 – Theory Elements of the Workshop
9:30 – 5:30 p.m. (lunch provided)

Sunday, February 7 – Practical Elements of the Workshop
8:30 – 4 p.m. (lunch provided)

National Athlete Classification Sessions
Sunday, February 7 - As part of the practical elements of the workshop, athletes must be scheduled

Venue
Tampa Rowing Center: http://tampamayorscup.com/facilities.php.
The clinic hotel is Tampa Howard Johnson, which is located directly across from the boathouse, within walking distance. You are not required to stay at this hotel and may find other accommodations. For the group rate of $89.95 plus tax, call (813) 223-1351. A shuttle to/from the airport is also available for a nominal fee.

Cost
There will be no cost associated with the workshop. All participants are expected to manage their own travel and meals aside from lunch. All participants must be current USRowing members. Click HERE to join.

Presenters and Classifiers
Judy Morrison – FISA Head of Classification, Adaptive Rowing Commission, USA

Rebecca Thomas - FISA International Technical Classifier, Canada

Important Deadlines
Workshop Participation for Classifiers – Applications due December 20, 2009
Classification Request for Athletes – Applications due December 20, 2009
Acceptance for Classifiers and Rowers will be announced by December 22, 2009

Classifier Information
There are two different categories of classifiers for adaptive rowing and participants in the classification workshop should nominate for one of the following:

Medical Classifier – a medical doctor, physiotherapist, or doctor of osteopathic medicine

Technical Classifier – a rowing coach, sports scientist, former rower, physical educator or similarly qualified person.

Athlete Information
Please bring all relevant medical and supporting documentation to the classification sessions. This information must be signed by a physician, and include at a minimum, the date and diagnosis of the disability. It may also include the effect on daily function.

Classification Status
New (N) status
A sport class status allocated to an athlete who has not been classified by a FISA International Classification Panel but who has been classified by FISA trainee classifier. A rower with a classification status of “N” may compete at National level or non-FISA event. They may be required to under go further classification prior to a FISA event.

Review (R) Status
“R” status may be allocated to a rower where the FISA Classifiers consider the rower’s current disability may change. They may be required to under go further classification prior to a FISA event.

Confirmed (C) Status
For a Confirmed International status classification, the rower must be classified by a FISA Classification Panel. A rower with “C” status may compete in all FISA and Paralympic events.

Classification
LTA (Leg, Trunk and Arms)
For rowers with a disability but who have the use of their legs, trunk and arms and who can utilize the full sliding seat.

TA (Trunk and Arms)
For rowers who have trunk movement but who are unable to use the sliding seat to propel the boat because of significantly weakened function of the lower limbs.

AS (Arms and Shoulders)
For rowers who have no or minimal trunk function. They are able to apply force predominantly using the arms and/or shoulders only.

To Register for this clinic, please fill out the following form and return it to Karen Lewis at karen@usrowing.org . Applications should be emailed by Dec 20, 2009.

Application Form (pdf)