This study examines the impact of sports on individuals with intellectual disabilities, comparing experiences across Bulgaria and Italy. Using life stories and interviews from five participants, the study identifies key themes, including challenges, support systems, and the influence of sports on personal and social development. A thematic analysis was employed to extract recurring patterns, while cross-cultural comparisons highlighted systemic and cultural differences. Results reveal that Bulgarian participants benefit from community-driven initiatives and government funding, while Italian participants rely heavily on familial support. The findings emphasize the need for integrated support systems to enhance sports inclusion. This research contributes to understanding the role of sports in fostering resilience, independence, and inclusion for marginalized groups. Recommendations for policy and practice are discussed.

Keywords: Intellectual disabilities, sports inclusion, cross-cultural comparison, Bulgaria, Italy, thematic analysis.