This entry explores the role of para-sport training camps as psychosocial interventions that extend beyond athletic performance to foster identity development, social inclusion, and psychological resilience among para-athletes. Drawing on empirical data from the Gather, Adjust, Prepare, Sustain program and existing literature, the authors argue that training camps serve as transformative environments where athletes can cultivate self-efficacy, hope, and a strong athletic identity. However, these benefits are not universally experienced. This entry critically examines how intersectional inequalities related to disability, gender, geography, and socioeconomic status can shape access to and outcomes from camp participation. It highlights the risks of identity foreclosure and the need for sustainable support structures post-camp. Through a reflexive lens, the authors advocate for camps to be designed as inclusive ecosystems that challenge ableist narratives and promote long-term psychosocial development. This entry concludes by calling for more context-sensitive qualitative research to inform policy and practice in inclusive sport development.

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Para-Athlete Preparation Camps

  • Katie Cronin,
  • Barry Drust,
  • Paul Garner,
  • Andrew Soundy

摘要

This entry explores the role of para-sport training camps as psychosocial interventions that extend beyond athletic performance to foster identity development, social inclusion, and psychological resilience among para-athletes. Drawing on empirical data from the Gather, Adjust, Prepare, Sustain program and existing literature, the authors argue that training camps serve as transformative environments where athletes can cultivate self-efficacy, hope, and a strong athletic identity. However, these benefits are not universally experienced. This entry critically examines how intersectional inequalities related to disability, gender, geography, and socioeconomic status can shape access to and outcomes from camp participation. It highlights the risks of identity foreclosure and the need for sustainable support structures post-camp. Through a reflexive lens, the authors advocate for camps to be designed as inclusive ecosystems that challenge ableist narratives and promote long-term psychosocial development. This entry concludes by calling for more context-sensitive qualitative research to inform policy and practice in inclusive sport development.