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A new model for inclusive sports?: an evaluation of participants' experiences of mixed ability rugby
[journal article]
Abstract Sport has been recognised as a potential catalyst for social inclusion. The Mixed Ability Model represents an innovative approach to inclusive sport by encouraging disabled and non-disabled players to interact in a mainstream club environment. However, research around the impacts of the Model is cur... view more
Sport has been recognised as a potential catalyst for social inclusion. The Mixed Ability Model represents an innovative approach to inclusive sport by encouraging disabled and non-disabled players to interact in a mainstream club environment. However, research around the impacts of the Model is currently lacking. This paper aims to contribute empirical data to this gap by evaluating participants' experiences of Mixed Ability Rugby and highlighting implications for future initiatives. Primary qualitative data were collected within two Mixed Ability Rugby teams in the UK and Italy through online questionnaires and focus groups. Data were analysed using Simplican et al.'s (2015) model of social inclusion. Data show that Mixed Ability Rugby has significant potential for achieving inclusionary outcomes. Positive social impacts, reported by all participants, regardless of (dis)ability, include enhanced social networks, an increase in social capital, personal development and fundamental perception shifts. Factors relevant to the Mixed Ability Model are identified that enhance these impacts and inclusionary outcomes. The mainstream setting was reportedly the most important, with further aspects including a supportive club environment and promotion of self-advocacy. A "Wheel of Inclusion" is developed that provides a useful basis for evaluating current inclusive sport initiatives and for designing new ones.... view less
Keywords
inclusion; handicapped; sports; social network; perception
Classification
Leisure Research
Social Problems
Document language
English
Publication Year
2017
Page/Pages
p. 130-140
Journal
Social Inclusion, 5 (2017) 2
Issue topic
Sport for social inclusion: questioning policy, practice and research
ISSN
2183-2803
Status
Published Version; peer reviewed