SIGNIFICATION CONSTRUCTED BY ELITE ATHLETES ABOUT THE OPENING OF THE YOUTH OLYMPIC GAMES OF BUENOS AIRES

Abstract

The objective of the present study is to understand the significations constructed by elite athletes from the experience of participating in the opening of the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires. For the purpose of this investigation pointed to a qualitative approach, based on the theoretical and methodological assumptions of ethnomethodology. The results show that the opening ceremony represented a kind of 'rite of passage' for the athletes interviewed, consisting of the incorporation of ethnomethods belonging to a certain group of the sports elite. It was concluded that the production of the signification of these subjects was mediated by the identification of some symbols and rituals that also appear in the adult version.