EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES IN SPORTS

ACCESSIBILITY OF SPORTS INFRASTRUCTURES IN THE NORTH GREAT PLAIN REGION

Abstract

In this study the degree of accessibility of 31 swimming pools and 24 sports
halls in the North Great Plain Region were investigated. Our results show that
in 33% of the cases even the possibility to enter the buildings is not insured,
and only in 53% of the sports infrastructures is full accessibility available for
the disabled. The situation is better in case of the swimming pools than for
the sports halls. It is established that, although the law states that people liv-
ing with disabilities have the right to an accessible environment, barriers do
exist. Given the fact that sport is an important element of a healthy lifestyle
for all individuals, it would be important to allocate funds to turn the sports
infrastructures fully accessible.