How are athletes divisioned in individual sports?

Divisioning puts athletes against others of similar ability, so everyone has a fair chance. Ability is the main factor, with gender and age also considered (Sports Rules Article 1, 2024, section 10).

Step 1: Gender. Athletes normally compete against the same gender, unless the sport's rules allow mixed events.

Step 2: Age groups, based on age on the day the competition opens:

Step 3: Ability. Athletes are ranked by an entry score from a previous competition or by a divisioning (preliminary) event, then grouped:

• 3 to 8 athletes per division.
• A guideline of no more than 15% difference between the highest and lowest scores in a division. This 15% is a guideline, not a rule.

Your job as coach: the Head Coach is responsible for making sure the score used for divisioning reflects the athlete's true ability. There should be a process for coaches to amend entry or preliminary scores.

If a division would have fewer than three athletes, age groups are broadened first, then the ability range, then genders combined, if safe. Divisioning decisions cannot be protested.