Pathways to Paralympic Sport
Facilitating Sports Initiation for Young Para Athletes
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22456/1982-8918.148603Keywords:
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Sports for persons with disabilities, Athletes with disabilities, Paralympic sports initiationAbstract
Youth with disabilities exhibit low levels of physical activity and limited sports opportunities, although these are crucial for holistic development and social inclusion. In this context, this study analyzed the recruitment, selection, and guidance for sports initiation and competitive participation of young people with disabilities within a university extension project, in collaboration with the Brazilian Paralympic Committee. The objective was to evaluate a strategy for fostering Paralympic sports initiation at school age. This study is a retrospective documentary case study with a descriptive-analytical approach, based on project reports and official competition bulletins (Minas Gerais School Games and School Paralympics – SP) from 2022 to 2024. For analysis, descriptive statistics and comparative analysis were employed. Paralympic festivals proved effective in promoting Paralympic sports and attracting new participants. Project participants contributed substantially to the SP, winning 33% of Minas Gerais' total medals and boosting state representation at the national level. Within the studied context, the strategies proved effective in fostering school Paralympic sports, offering a promising model for sports initiation...
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