Preparation, validation, and application of a survey to assess the needs determined by the sporting environment in Mixed Ability rugby

Abstract

[Abstract]: The aim of this study is to contribute evidence aimed at advancing social inclusion for people 7 with disabilities through sports by an analysis of what is necessary to promote and develop 8 Mixed Ability (MA) rugby. MA rugby is a sport in which teams are made up of players with 9 and without disabilities. In this chapter, a review of the literature on theoretical framework of 10 disability, social inclusion and sport provisions from a social model of disability standpoint is 11 carried out. Next, a survey is prepared and validated following the Delphi method. 12 Afterwards, this questionnaire is applied to players, families, clubs’ staff and referees related 13 to MA rugby in Spain, Chile, Ecuador and Argentina. The results of the study show the key 14 points to improve the visibility and promotion of MA rugby, which in turn affects the 15 advancement of social inclusion. Among the conclusions, it stands out that the role of the 16 environment is fundamental to guarantee the rights of access and full participation of people 17 with disabilities in sports, as promulgated by the Convention on the Rights of Persons with 18 Disabilities (CRPD) (United Nations (UN), 2006).