FUTEBOL DE AMPUTADOS: CONTEXTUALIZAÇÃO DA MODALIDADE NO BRASIL

This bibliographic research aims to provide information about Amputee Soccer, specifying the history, main rules, adaptations and functional classification; get to know places that work with the sport in Brazil and to know about the benefits of Amputee Soccer in relation to practitioners. Amputee Soccer is an adaptation of conventional soccer that was developed in the 80s in the United States, allowing people with amputation or limbs’ malformation could practice the sport successfully. Brazil is a power in the world, because it has become champion in four World Cups. Despite this, the sport is still little known by Brazilian society. This study found 29 places in Brazil that work with the sport, being: 16 in the southeast, 08 in the northeast, 03 in the midwest, 01 in the north and 01 in the south. Considering the size of the country, the number presented is insufficient to serve Brazilians with physical disabilities of different ages who have interests in playing soccer. The practice of Amputee Soccer can provide organic, physiological, psychological and social benefits. Therefore, practitioners need to have access to an adequate environment for the development of the sport, resulting in greater chances of engagement, regularity in exercise, quality and satisfaction with life. Studying and promoting Amputee Soccer can be an adjunct to the knowledge process, encouraging the practice, rehabilitation and social inclusion of people with disabilities through Adapted Sports.