Exploring the challenges of developing women's sports in low-income provinces

The present study aimed to explore the challenges of developing women's sports in low-income provinces. This research was applied based on the type of purpose and methodically, qualitatively and using theme analysis. The statistical population of the study included the directors of the provincial sports directorates, the deputies of championship sports and the deputies of women sports of the general directorates of sports and youth of the provinces, the vice president of women sports federations, university professors and experts. The sampling method was purposeful and the data collection tool was semi-structured interviews. The interviews were conducted in absentia over a 5-month process (according to Pandemic COVID 19). Finally, the researcher reached a theoretical saturation point after 16 interviews with 16 experts. According to the evaluation and complete analysis of the interviews, a total of 97 basic concepts were obtained, which were classified into 11 categories and 4 main categories. These concepts included environmental, managerial, resource, and behavioral challenges. According to the research results, it can be said that the development of women's sports in low-income provinces requires having a strong management team and creating an equal socio-cultural environment compared to men, adopting strong management strategies as well as the existence of infrastructure and places for women. In addition, senior sports managers in these provinces can help the growth and development of women's sports with accurate targeting and proper management, hiring an expert workforce for the provincial capital and cities.