FIS hosts recertification seminar for Para classifiers

FIS is continuing to demonstrate its commitment across all Para disciplines, most recently by inviting classifiers to a recertification seminar earlier this month.  

Between October 18-19, participants from 16 nations attended the intensive course in Frankfurt, Germany.  

The primary focus of the two-day event was to engage in a program that would reinforce both consistency and excellence in classification. This took many forms, including practical sessions to rehearse and refine evaluation methods.  

Attendees also worked through theory modules that covered key topics such as underlying health condition assessments and watched video-based reviews to revisit on-snow technical and observational assessments.  

Seminars like this work to further reinforce the strength of FIS and IBU in this field, ensuring that athletes have classifiers with the highest education and knowledge profiles as they classify hopefuls toward major events. 

“Intense days filled with face-to-face knowledge exchange, updates on new rules, and the chance to make and meet friends – all to become a better classifier and panel member,” said Sandra Titulaer, Head of Classification for Para Alpine & Para Snowboard. 

The sentiment was echoed by Sue Sandwick, Head of Classification for Para Nordic, who reinforced the importance of classification as a cornerstone of fair and competitive Para sport.  

“The course was a multifaceted, collaborative effort filled with intensive, challenging, and ultimately very rewarding experiences,” she told FIS.  

To further the sessions already on offer within the seminar, FIS invited two specialists to lead sessions in more specific elements of this process.  

Mike Stoker guided participants through a workshop on soft skills and effective communication, while Dr. Cornelia Blank discussed integrity and safeguarding to equip classifiers with tools to navigate complex situations in the field.  

“Education is essential to ensure Para classifiers act with fairness, expertise, and consistency,” explained Dr. Blank, who is Senior Manager for Education at FIS.  

“The FIS E-Learning platform has proven to be a great fit for our blended learning approach, and we’re thrilled that the classifiers were among the first to embrace it, setting a strong example for other disciplines.”  

For FIS, it is another step forward in the organization’s ongoing commitment to Para snow sports.