Australian representation at the Asia–Oceania Zone Championships extended beyond the Rollers, Gliders and Wombats last week. Among those flying the flag off-court was Victorian classifier Emma Costanzo, who passed all training and exams to receive her Oceania Zonal Classifier accreditation.
Costanzo, an occupational therapist and the current Head of Classification for Wheelchair AFL, has been a national classifier in Australia for the past three years.
After first entering the classification space four years ago through wheelchair AFL, she transitioned into wheelchair basketball with the support and mentorship of long-standing international classifier and educator Lisa Chaffey.
“I was connected with Lisa early on and she’s been incredibly generous with her time,” Costanzo said.
“She taught me the foundations of classification and really encouraged me to take the next step into wheelchair basketball.”
To achieve Zonal status, classifiers must complete a three-part assessment process, including a written exam, a video exam, and a live observational exam conducted courtside during competition.
Costanzo has now successfully passed all components, officially earning her Oceania Zonal Classifier accreditation. Over the next 12 months, she’ll continue gaining hands-on experience in her Zonal practice period before becoming eligible for the international pathway.
“Being here has been a valuable opportunity to learn from highly experienced international classifiers,” she said.
“The exposure to different cases and perspectives helps build confidence and strengthens the consistency of my decision-making.”
Costanzo’s selection reflects both her capacity as a classifier and the increasing emphasis on strengthening Australia’s classification pool.
“I was very honoured to be nominated,” she said.
“To receive that acknowledgment from Basketball Australia and the international panel was a real vote of confidence in the work I’ve been doing.”
Australian international classifier and educator Lisa Chaffey was present in Bangkok, contributing to the delivery of classifier education, whilst Jenny Branford was in attendance as an international classifier.
Chaffey, who has more than 15 years’ experience, now serves as an international educator and also works with Paralympics Australia in classifier support across multiple para-sports.
Supported by the Para Uplift funding, classification remains a key strategic priority for Basketball Australia, ensuring athletes are assessed under consistent, internationally aligned standards.
That commitment continues next month, when Basketball Australia hosts a National Classifier Training Course in Canberra from 2–5 December, where 10 new classifiers will begin their national accreditation.
