Document Type : Research Paper I Open Access I Released under (CC BY-NC 4.0) license
Authors
1 Ph.D Student in Sport Management, Department of Sport Management, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
2 Associate Professor of Sport Management, Department of Sport Management, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
3 Professor of Sport Management, Department of Sport Management, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to propose a framework for aligning sports development pathways by leveraging the capacities of sports organizations in Iran.
Methodology: This qualitative research employed thematic analysis with the participation of 16 experienced sports management professors and managers. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and systematic literature review. The validity and reliability of the data were confirmed through expert review and coder agreement.
Findings: The analysis yielded 170 conceptual codes, 39 sub-themes, 11 main themes, and 5 overarching themes, including organizational capacity assessment, system capacity building, capacity utilization, development alignment, and sustainable capacity for sports development and peace. The results indicated that effective use of organizational capacities requires addressing challenges, adapting to environmental conditions, structural and managerial efficiency, systemic capacity identification, strategic interventions, and optimization of mechanisms.
Conclusion: The study underscores the need for an integrated and purposeful approach to harness the diverse capacities of sports organizations to achieve sustainable development goals in Iranian sport. Without comprehensive capacity recognition and strategic utilization within theoretical and operational frameworks, such goals remain unattainable. The proposed model provides a practical tool for policymakers and sports managers to revise strategies, strengthen organizational infrastructures, and enhance cross-sectoral coordination, thereby facilitating sustainable sports development and promoting its national and international role.
Keywords
- Organizational Capacity
- Development Capacity
- Sports Development
- Sport for Development
- Sport for Peace
Main Subjects
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