The Paralympic Reference Center at the School of Physical Education and Dance - Sped: A Case Study

The present study aims to analyze the benefits that the Paralympic Reference Center (CRP) has provided for people with disabilities who engage in swimming through this project. The study was conducted through data collection, including semi-structured interviews and field diaries, carried out at one of the CRP's nuclei in Goiânia, located at the Federal University of Goiás-UFG. Eight students participated in the interviews, comprising four males and four females, along with some of their guardians who responded. Through guiding open-ended questions designed to allow them to express their opinions freely and subjectively, the study aimed to understand their perception of well-being and health, and whether participation in the project brought benefits in these areas. After analyzing the information obtained, it was possible to perceive that sports practices for people with disabilities not only help with physical issues but also emotional and social ones. In this sense, it can be concluded that a welcoming environment makes a significant difference during the teaching and learning process of Paralympic sports. Received: 2024/03/12 Reformulated: 2024/05/07 Accepted: 2024/05/07