Análise de modelos de gestão de equipes de natação paralímpica brasileira

Abstract

This study analyzes the management models of Paralympic swimming teams in Brazil, recognizing that despite the country’s remarkable results in international competitions, structural and managerial weaknesses persist, compromising the sustainability of the sport. The main objective was to investigate how different management practices influence the organization and performance of teams, based on the SPLISS methodology, which identifies key factors for international sporting success. A mixedmethods design was adopted, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches, through an online questionnaire applied to managers and coaches of 12 clubs participating in the Brazilian Paralympic Swimming Championship. This approach enabled the analysis of both perceptions and administrative practices, as well as objective indicators regarding structure, resources, and sporting outcomes. The findings reveal a heterogeneous institutional landscape: most organizations are associations, with strong concentration of athletes and achievements in a few clubs, reflecting significant inequalities in the distribution of resources, infrastructure, and opportunities. The adoption of formal management mechanisms such as flowcharts, compliance, and governance proved limited, as did the implementation of continuing education and post-career support for athletes, although some isolated initiatives in research and innovation were observed. Technical staff composition showed male predominance and absence of professionals with disabilities, contrasting with the inclusive mission of the Paralympic movement. Financially, reliance on tax incentive laws and private sponsorship prevails, underscoring the need for more diversified and sustainable funding strategies. Regarding institutional goals, emphasis is placed on high performance, with less attention to social inclusion, indicating a mismatch with the foundational principles of parasport. Comparative analysis between management practices and sporting results suggests that success is not necessarily linked to advanced managerial models but rather to the concentration of athletes, resources, and expertise in certain clubs. It is concluded that professionalization of management, standardization of processes, human resource development, technological innovation, and a balance between social and sporting missions are essential for the consolidation of Brazilian Paralympic swimming. By addressing a gap in academic literature, this study provides evidence-based insights to guide public policies and institutional practices, strengthen governance, reduce inequalities among clubs, and ensure sustainable development of the sport, reaffirming Paralympic swimming as a driver of inclusion and human development.