| Challenges in the Development of School Championship Sports in Underprivileged Regions: A Qualitative Case Study of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province |
| Paper ID : 1154-SPORTCONGRESS (R3) |
| Authors |
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فرشید کرمی1, عبدالله رسایی راد *2 1Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Yasuj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Yasuj, Iran 2Ph.D. in Sport Management, Physical Education Teacher, Department of Education of Boyer-Ahmad County, Yasuj, Iran. |
| Abstract |
| Introduction: Sustainable national elite sport development originates from an effective school-level system. Strategic planning in this domain requires understanding expert perspectives and systemic challenges. This study aimed to qualitatively analyze key drivers and fundamental barriers to school championship sports development to inform a strategic framework for improvement, particularly in underprivileged regions. Methods: Employing a qualitative approach, this research collected data through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with key school sports experts, including senior administrators, youth national coaches, and sport scientists. The interviews explored perspectives on the drivers, challenges, and solutions for sport development. The collected data were subsequently analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis. Results: Thematic analysis identified significant structural and operational challenges. These included: a lack of strategic coordination between the Ministries of Education and Sport; managerial and pedagogical weaknesses at the school level; a shortage of specialized coaches; severe budgetary and infrastructural limitations; the absence of a scientific talent evaluation system; and an underdeveloped competition structure. Concurrently, experts emphasized the necessity of integrated management and a science-based approach as foundational elements for success. Conclusion: These findings reveal a significant gap between the system's potential and its current reality, which is fraught with structural challenges. The study thereby provides a realistic evidence base for policymakers to design a national strategic plan with recommendations aimed at overcoming the identified barriers and strengthening the core pillars of championship sports development within the educational system. |
| Keywords |
| Championship Sport, School Sport, Strategic Development, Qualitative Analysis, Semi-structured Interview, Thematic Analysis, Talent Identification. |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |
