Reviews

"It is my view that scholars and leaders of sport, from across the sport spectrum, will recognise this important addition to sports policy analysis." 

— Prof. Dr. Margaret Talbot. President, International Council of Sport Science and Physical Education.  Chair, Education Committee of the International Paralympic Committee.


"Same Spirit Different Team provides commentary on established areas of debate while also addressing more contemporary issues such as the importance of sports science support for the modern Deaflympian. If sports science is not embraced by those involved in the preparation of deaf athletes and the athletes themselves, then this will surely contribute to the emerging gap that exists between athletic codes; this book provides an introduction of the merits of sports science to the Deaf community."

- Dr. Mark Russell. PhD, PGCE, CSCS, R Nutr, BSc(Hons), Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader, MSc Strength and Conditioning, Northumbria University


"So absorbing, with an opportunity to know more of what was actually going on between CISS/ICSD, IOC and IPC even up to now. Reflecting on a real need to create a breed of new young deaf leaders/trainers otherwise going back to square one!"

- Morag Rosie, MBE, Joint Vice President of Deaf Aspirations.


British Sign Language 

International Sign Language

Book Summary

This book charts the politics of disability sport and how the withdrawal from the IPC in 1995 has impacted on the Deaflympics. It answers five key questions; What are the Deaflympics?, Why are the deaf not in the Paralympics?, How does deafness affect sports performance?, Why have I not heard of the Deaflympics? and Why are the Deaflympics not supported and recognised?

Synopsis

Same Spirit Different Team: The Politicisation of the Deaflympics is an in-depth account of the growth and development of the Deaflympic movement since its launch in 1924. Harrison chronicles the historical struggles of the movement and shows how it has been afflicted by stigmatisation, marginalisation and difficulties in securing government support and sustainable funding. he also shares his unique insight into the internal politics of the Deaflympics and its problematic relationship with major sporting organisations, in particular, the International Paralympic Committee.

The book explores the challenges and barriers faced by deaf sportspeople and how their specific needs can be met going forwards. Harrison debates whether deaf people should participate in the Paralympics and examines the current state of Deaf sport in the UK, offering recommendations on how future deaf athletes can be supported and encouraged to access high performance sport.

Readers, from scholars to athletes to politicians will find Harrison's work a fascinating and informative analysis of Deaf sport and culture as he promotes equality of opportunity for deaf competitors and calls for a shift in attitude towards Deaf sport, seeking to procure the recognition and support that the Deaflympic movement deserves.

The Author

Stuart Harrison, is profoundly Deaf and a former teacher of the deaf with over 30 years experience in Deaf and disability sport. He has previously written articles on Deaf sport and is sought after to make comments on TV and radio. He is currently Vice Chair of UK Deaf Sport.