Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
Assistant Professor, Department of Motor Behavior and Sport Management, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
2
Ph.D. Student in Sport Management, Department of Motor Behavior and Sport Management, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
10.30473/arsm.2025.72328.3915
Abstract
This study aimed to identify the opportunities and challenges of the 16th Cultural and Sports Olympiad for male university students in the host society. The research method was qualitative and thematic analysis. The participants included 19 senior managers, officials and members of the executive committees of the competition headquarters. Research tool was semi-structured interviews. To validate the findings, strategies such as thick description, ethical considerations, peer review, critical friends, and triangulation were implemented. The results identified seven main themes of opportunity: infrastructure development, marketing and branding, communication, socio-cultural benefits, sports, experiential and organizational learning, and motivational aspects. Conversely, eight main challenge themes emerged: financial, logistical and organizational issues, security, cultural and social aspects, management, communication and coordination, space and equipment, and human resources. Overall, the Olympiad offered significant growth opportunities for Isfahan University. To effectively address the challenges faced, future hosts should enhance technology use for better communication, empower committee members prior to the event, attract sponsors, encourage broader participation from public and private sectors, and engage elite consultants in event management.
Keywords
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