Classification
In the sport of boccia, classcification ensures fairness for all athletes by evaluating the impact of their physical impairment on performance. Classification provides a structure for competition and is important in determining elegibility and grouping for athletes to compete. All athletes competing in a boccia event will be given a Sport Class and Sport Class status in connection with the BISFed Classification Rules. For more information about classification in the sport of boccia go to http://www.bisfed.com/about-boccia/classification/.
Environment
A regulation boccia court consists of two areas: individual player boxes and the common playing area. The common playing area has a designated target area in which all scoring occurs. Players throw from specific boxes marked on the court. These boxes are equal in size and each player must remain completely within his or her box during play. Boccia is a very popular outdoor game and unofficial courts can be set up on virtually any hard surface. Chutes and ramps may be used in some competitions instead of manually releasing the ball.
A=Target ball throwing areaC=Sidelines of throwing box
D=Court boundary lines
E=Back-line of throwing areas
F=Non-valid area for target ball
Boccia balls are made from many materials. Good quality boccia balls are soft enough to grasp, but hard enough to roll well on the court surface. Official balls used by the BISFed are hand-made of leather and are approximately the size of a baseball.
The use of chutes and ramps enables many individuals to participate who might otherwise be unable to compete. A player may use an assistant when using a ramp. The assistant is not allowed to view the playing court and must follow specific instructions from the player at all times. The assistant places the ball at a certain height and may not initiate the throw.
