Culture, Policies, and a Move to Integrate an Assets-based Approach to Development in the Portuguese Sport System

The purpose of this article is to propose the integration of an assets-based approach to development in the Portuguese sport system. The propositions advanced are aimed at instigating reflections on policy-level initiatives that can be undertaken with the intent of bettering the state of sport in Portugal. We argue that changes from an assets-based approach are needed in both policy and practice to influence the current Portuguese sport culture positively. Specifically, an assets-based approach could prompt a move towards deliverables aimed at promoting social development rather than a unidimensional focus on winning and performance. Based on the current state of affairs, reflections for rethinking the culture and policies of the Portuguese sport system are offered. Keywords: sport; policy; youth; values; winning.