Abstract
The aim of this research is to analyze the organizational structure for high level swimming in the State of Sao Paulo. To achieve this goal a semi-structured interview was performed with eleven elite swimming coaches of the State of São Paulo, and two officials of the Paulista Aquatic Federation. The results were analyzed through Group Character Speech Method (GCS). It was verified that the clubs and Municipal Entities of Sports Practices are responsible for sports training for grassroots and elite athletes. The action's and policies administration for the development of high level swimming in the State of São Paulo does not happen in a centralized way through national organizations such as the COB or the Ministry of Sports, as well as any specific organization, such as FAP or CBDA. The actions and policies management for the development of elite athletes in swimming are responsibility of clubs and Municipal Sports Practices Entities on an individual form, like the definition of guidelines, application of financial resources, accountability, audits and relationships with sponsors.
KEY WORDS:
Sport structure; Swimming; Elite sport development
