Athlete Categorisation
Athlete Categorisation
Athlete Categorisation is a core part of Australia’s Para powerlifting high performance system. It identifies athletes with the strongest potential to succeed at major international events such as, World Championships and the Paralympic Games. It also helps ensure support for athletes is targeted appropriately along the performance pathway.
2024 Paris Paralympics- Ben Wright and Simon Bergner
Purpose
Athlete Categorisation is used to:
- Identify athletes with current or future medal potential at senior international events
- Guide investment and highperformance support from external organisations
- Clarify an athlete’s place within the Para powerlifting pathway
How It Is Used
Categorisation helps Para Powerlifting Australia:
-
Nominate athletes into the AIS Categorisation system
-
Advise the National Institute Network (NIN) on access to services and scholarships
-
Inform decisions on camps, competitions, and targeted performance support
Please note that categorisation informs prioritisation but does not guarantee access to services and is subject to available resources.
AIS Categorisation Levels: 
-
Podium
-
Podium Ready
-
Podium Potential
-
Developing
-
Emerging
*Para Powerlifting Australia may also identify PreEmerging athletes (internal use only).
Review Process
Categorisation is reviewed twice yearly (including an annual review), based on:
-
Results at key national and international competitions
-
Demonstrated progression, training commitment, and professionalism
-
Coach evaluations and objective performance data
Categorisation does not determine selection for High Performance/Development Programs or National Teams. Selection follows a separate criteria.
Supporting the Athlete Pathway
Categorisation provides clear expectations and performance standards, helping athletes understand their progression. Categorisation levels may change as athletes develop this ensures their support aligns with both current performance and future potential.
For more information regarding Categorisation, please refer to the following framework in the link below.
Para Powerlifting Performance Matrix and Guidelines 2025-2028
Current Australian Para Powerlifting Categorised Athlete
As of 1 January 2026
|
Name
|
Categorisation Level
|
Home State
|
|
Hani Watson
|
Podium Ready
|
Qld
|
|
Ben Wright
|
Podium Potential
|
WA
|
|
Dan Bos
|
Developing
|
NSW
|
|
Dylan Braan
|
Developing
|
NSW
|
|
Shanaya Soni
|
Developing
|
VIC
|
|
Justin Marafioti
|
Emerging
|
SA
|
|
Rachel Coady
|
Emerging
|
ACT
|
|
Jade Pritchard
|
Emerging
|
NSW
|
|
Natasha Price
|
Pre-Emerging (non AIS endorsed)
|
QLD
|
Partners
