Reverse Integration in Wheelchair Basketball-A Mixed-Method Spanish Stakeholders? Perspective

In Spain, wheelchair basketball competition is well developed and structured; however, reverse integration is not allowed. This study aimed to describe and synthesize the perceptions of Spanish wheelchair stakeholders (players, coaches, referees, and club managers). A mixed-method approach was used, utilizing an ad hoc survey questionnaire (n = 49) and three focus groups (n = 12). Quantitative and qualitative data were interpreted using a triangulation strategy, meaning that both sources of data were combined and analyzed. From the thematic content analysis, two main themes and several subthemes emerged: social context (audience attraction and economic impact, utility and logistics, and promoting inclusion) and sport context (grassroots and elite level). Some reservations at elite level were also reported. From the perspective of the stakeholders explored in this study, reverse integration appears to be well suited for implementation within the Spanish wheelchair basketball framework at all levels.

Automated summary

In Spain, wheelchair basketball is well developed and structured, but reverse integration is not allowed. This study collected data from Spanish wheelchair stakeholders to explore their perceptions on reverse integration. The findings suggest that reverse integration seems suitable for implementation within the Spanish wheelchair basketball framework at all levels.