In this lesson, we will be focusing on how to classify and work with individuals who have intellectual impairments in the context of Para Kickboxing. Intellectual impairments refer to limitations in cognitive functioning and adaptive behaviors, which can impact an individual's ability to learn and perform certain tasks.

It is important to understand the different levels of intellectual impairments and how they can manifest in Para Kickboxers. By recognizing and adapting to the needs of individuals with intellectual impairments, coaches can create an inclusive and supportive environment that allows for participation and progress in the sport.

Through this lesson, we will explore strategies for effectively communicating, modifying techniques, and providing additional support for individuals with intellectual impairments in para kickboxing, ultimately promoting their skill development and overall well-being.

WAKO Para Kickboxing Specific Classification Categories for Para Kickboxers with an Intellectual Impairment:

Athletes with an Intellectual Disability

Intellectual Disability is a disability characterized by significant limitation both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social and practical adaptive skills. This disability originates before the age of 22. Limitations in adaptive behavior affect both daily life and the ability to respond to life changes and environmental demands (AAIDD – 2010, WHO ICD-10 and ICF-2001).

Based upon this definition, the WAKO IF & USA Para Kickboxing Eligibility Criteria for athletes with an intellectual disability is:

1. Significant impairment in intellectual functioning which is defined as a Full-Scale IQ score of 75 or lower,and;

2. Significant limitations in adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills. This is defined as performance that is at least 2 standard deviations below the mean of, either:

a. One of the following 3 types of adaptive behavior: conceptual, social, or practical skills

b. An overall score on a standardized measure of conceptual, social and practical skills, and;

3. Intellectual disability must be evident during the developmental period, which is from conception to 22 years of age

Athletes must meet all 3 elements of the criteria to be eligible for consideration for intellectual disability sport.

DI1 Mild Intellectual Disability IQ between 50-55 to 70

DI2 Moderate or Deep Intellectual Disability IQ below 50-55

Athletes with an intellectual disability and significant additional impairment (Down Syndrome)

A significant additional impairment is defined by WAKO IF & USA Para Kickboxing as a lifelong condition that affects the functional capacity of the individual and substantially impacts on their sports performance. This includes athletes who have an intellectual disability, associated lifelong conditions, and/or a genetic condition, such as Down syndrome.

Athletes will be eligible for II2 if it can be demonstrated that they have significant functional impairment in addition to an intellectual disability. That is:

1. A formal diagnosis of Trisomy 21 or Translocation Down Syndrome.

OR

2. Have a diagnosed intellectual disability (as defined by the DI criteria) AND meet the minimum criteria for additional impairment as defined by the WAKO IF DI & SDI Assessment.

SDI1 Down Syndrome IQ between 50-55 to 70

SDI2 Down Syndrome IQ below 50-55

Para Kickboxers with Autism

Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as ‘persistent deficits in the ability to initiate and to sustain reciprocal social interaction and social communication, and by a range of restricted, repetitive, and inflexible patterns of behavior, interests or activities that are clearly atypical or excessive for the individual’s age and sociocultural context. The onset of the disorder occurs during the developmental period, typically in early childhood, but symptoms may not become fully apparent until later when social demands exceed limited capacities. Deficits are sufficiently severe to cause impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational or other important areas of functioning and are usually a pervasive feature of the individual’s functioning observable in all settings, although they may vary according to social, educational, or other context. Individuals along the spectrum exhibit a full range of intellectual functioning and language abilities.’ (ICD 11). Both the ICD 11 and the DSM 5 definition of Autism are accepted by USA Para Kickboxing, WAKO IF & the USOPC.

Based upon this, WAKO IF, USA Para Kickboxing eligibility criteria for athletes with autism is a formal diagnosis of Autism or ASD carried out by qualified practitioners, using accepted diagnostic techniques.

A1 Autism Spectrum Diagnosis and an IQ greater then >75.

Key Lesson Concepts:

• Definition of intellectual impairments in the context of para kickboxing
• Recognition of different levels of intellectual impairments
• Strategies for effectively working with participants with intellectual impairments