INCLUSION IN SPORTING EVENTS: PERSPECTIVE FROM ATHLETES WITH DISABILITIES

Abstract

The practice of physical activity and sport among people with disabilities is a topic that is becoming increasingly important. Therefore, it is important to address the different aspects that affect access to physical activity and sport for people with intellectual disabilities. This research focuses on the analysis of the perceptions of athletes with disabilities on the degree of inclusion of a popular sporting event. For this purpose, an adapted scale has been developed and validated to measure these perceptions. The results show that these perceptions of the degree of inclusion of the sporting event analysed fall into two dimensions: ‘spaces’ and ‘organisation’. The results indicate that the physical accessibility of the venues is crucial, but attention must also be paid to organisational aspects, including staff training, provision of accessible information and individualised attention to the needs of athletes. The results of this study contribute to both theoretical and practical understanding. They underline the need for a holistic and multidimensional approach to sport event planning and delivery. By addressing both physical and organisational aspects, sport events can become catalysts for increased participation of people with disabilities in sport.