What is prohibited during competitions organized by the USA Deaf Sports Federation?

The use of hearing aids is prohibited during competitions organized by the USA Deaf Sports Federation because these events are specifically designed for athletes who are deaf or hard of hearing. The intent is to maintain an equal playing field where auditory signals do not provide an advantage to any competitors. By disallowing hearing aids, the federation ensures that all participants experience the competition in a similar sensory environment, aligning with the principles of fair play and inclusivity in deaf sports. This standard reflects the organization's commitment to preserving the integrity of competitions tailored for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

In contrast, the other options relate to practices or equipment that do not disrupt the intended competitive balance and focus on skills, strategy, and physical ability rather than sensory enhancements.