The competitive experience of deaf athletes: communication challenges and strategies for participation

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the experiences of deaf athletes in sports competitions, with emphasis on communication barriers and participation strategies developed in these contexts. The research is qualitative and descriptive-interpretive in nature, combining a literature review in the field of inclusive Physical Education and Deaf Studies with empirical data obtained through semi-structured interviews. The study is theoretically grounded in Quadros (2004), Strobel (2008), Skliar (2005), Mendes (2023), Ferreira (2016), among others who contributed to the discussion. Two deaf athletes participated in the study, identified by the pseudonyms Cristiano (football) and Golias (cycling), with anonymity ensured in accordance with ethical research principles. The results show that sport plays a fundamental role in the physical, emotional, and social development of these subjects, serving as a space of belonging and identity construction. However, structural barriers persist, especially regarding communication accessibility, marked by the absence of Libras interpreters, the predominance of oral communication, and the lack of preparation of professionals involved in competitions. The participants' accounts reveal distinct yet convergent experiences regarding the difficulties faced, varying according to the sport practiced. In addition, the athletes develop coping strategies such as visual attention, anticipation of actions, and the use of alternative communication resources, demonstrating both autonomy and individual overload. It is concluded that inclusion in sport still occurs only partially and requires structural changes that ensure equitable participation, communication accessibility, and recognition of the linguistic and cultural specificities of the Deaf community.