Authors
1 Department of Motor Behavior and Sport Management, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
2 Department of Motor Behavior and Sport Management, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to identify the challenges faced by volunteers during the 16th Cultural and Sports Olympiad for male university students in Iran, hosted by the University of Isfahan.
Methodology: The research method was qualitative and applied with a specific purpose. The study population included event volunteers and managers. Participants were selected through purposive sampling until theoretical saturation was reached, resulting in interviews with 15 volunteers and five managers. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews lasting 20 to 30 minutes each. Braun and Clarke's six-step method was used for data analysis. Strategies such as rich descriptions, ethical considerations, peer review, critical friends, and member checking were employed to ensure the credibility of the findings.
Results: The results revealed four main themes: managerial challenges, support and empowerment challenges, emotional and motivational challenges, and social and cultural challenges. Managerial challenges included four sub-themes: time management and planning, volunteer organization, communication and team coordination, and legal and contractual issues. Support and empowerment challenges encompassed four sub-themes: provision of equipment and financial resources, physical support and care, training and capacity building, and safety and security. Emotional and motivational challenges included two sub-themes: volunteer motivation and satisfaction, and psychological-emotional difficulties. Finally, social and cultural challenges consisted of two sub-themes: interpersonal conflicts and issues, and cultural challenges.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that the training and empowerment process of volunteers in sporting events requires precise planning and the implementation of appropriate training programs. Additionally, proper support, specialized capacity-building in various dimensions, and addressing volunteers' basic needs (autonomy, relatedness, and competence) can significantly mitigate potential challenges.
Keywords
- Sports volunteers
- Volunteer motivation
- Volunteer training
- Volunteer management
- Volunteerism movement
Main Subjects
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