Perception of rugby athletes on wheelchairs on supports received for an adapted sport practice

Abstract

Introduction: The literature has demonstrated the relevance and positive influence of social support for the promotion and protection of human development in its different dimensions. Objective: To identify the perception of wheelchair rugby athletes on the support received for the practice of adapted sports. Method: Participants were 10 disabled athletes who practice Rugby in wheelchairs. This is a qualitative approach. The interviews were conducted individually through a semi-structured script, recorded and transcribed in full. Results: It was observed that the first contact with the adapted sport occurred through friends, players, and coaches. The most frequently mentioned support for the practice of adapted sports refers to the family context. In the sporting context, there is the support coming from clubs, teams, staffs, coach, team, with an appreciation of space for training. The motivation for the practice of the sport was due to personal desires as a search for a better quality of life, physical independence and the desire to rehabilitate as well as the possibility to develop in the personal, social and educational field. Obstacles to the practice of adapted sports focus on the lack of financial support and accessibility. Conclusion: It was identified as a set of distinct and complementary supports fundamental to the practice of Rugby, which if articulated constitute points of a support network. It is suggested to invest in cross-sectional actions to increase the national policy for people with disabilities.