Vision impairments can be from a variety of conditions – genetic, prenatal, developmental, illness or trauma. Prior to competition, player must complete a Medical Diagnostic Form upon which the following classifications are used.

•    Class B1: Total absence of perception of light in both eyes, or some perception of light but with the inability to recognize the form of a hand at any distance and in any direction.
•    Class B2: From the ability to recognize the form of a hand to a visual acuity of 2/60 and/or visual field of less than 5 degrees.
•    Class B3: From a visual acuity above 2/60 to a visual acuity of 6/60 and/or a visual field or more than 5 degrees and less than 20 degrees.

All classifications must be made by measuring the best eye and to the highest possible correction.

Photos from 2012 International Goalball Classic held at Lakeshore Foundation.  Credit: The Birmingham News/Bernard Troncale.