FAR FROM HOME: THE ROLE OF SUPPORT NETWORKS IN THE ADAPTATION OF FEMALE SOCCER PLAYERS FROM SOUTHERN SANTA CATARINA IN THE CONTEXT OF SPORTS MIGRATION

Abstract

The present study addressed the role of support networks in the adaptation of female football players from southern Santa Catarina within the context of sports migration. It aimed to understand how these networks contribute to the emotional, social, and professional adaptation process of these players, considering the dimensions of gender, territory, and labor conditions. The research was characterized as qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive, with data collection conducted through semi-structured interviews with migrant athletes, which were analyzed using the content analysis technique. It was identified that the distance from family and the instability of formal networks generate significant distress and demand forced maturation. In conclusion, informal support networks, built horizontally in daily life, exert a significantly positive impact and act as the main protective factor for the athletes' well-being and mental health, whereas formal networks operate in a utilitarian manner, mostly conditioned on athletic performance.