University of IsfahanArchives in Sport Management and Leadership2981-05234120260501Volume 4, Issue 1, December 202611623055910.22108/asml.2026.30559ENJournal Article20260629https://asml.ui.ac.ir/article_30559_c6968621d5daa0eea090f02831c59cf4.pdfUniversity of IsfahanArchives in Sport Management and Leadership2981-05234120260501Challenges of E-sports Governance in Iran1213019510.22108/asml.2025.147222.1116ENRezgarPourmaroufDepartment of Sport Management, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Iran.AliAfrouzehDepartment of Sport Management, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, IranJournal Article20251026The aim of this study was to provide a critical interpretation of Iran’s e-sports ecosystem by analyzing the various dimensions of its governance challenges. This qualitative and exploratory research, conducted through an interpretive and inductive approach, employed semi-structured interviews with 12 experts, along with an analysis of existing documents and literature, to identify and examine the structural and institutional barriers to effective governance in Iranian e-sports. Data were analyzed using thematic coding based on Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six-phase method, and key findings were illustrated through representative quotations. The findings indicated that the first major challenge in the governance of e-sports in Iran is the absence of a centralized and integrated governing structure, resulting from institutional ambiguity, overlapping roles, and lack of coordination among responsible bodies—factors that have hindered the formation of stable long-term policies. The second finding highlighted institutional and structural weaknesses in the organization and management of competitions, where the absence of standardized and formal systems has undermined trust and social capital among players, teams, and investors. The third finding revealed that stakeholder participation in decision-making is minimal, with policies predominantly formulated in a top-down, non-participatory manner—an issue that obstructs collaborative governance and the sustainable development of the e-sports ecosystem. Overall, the study demonstrated that e-sports governance in Iran faces deep institutional, structural, and cultural challenges. The lack of a unified central institution has led to fragmented decision-making, weak coordination, and limited socio-economic legitimacy.https://asml.ui.ac.ir/article_30195_341ac9a7220a010894443c0faa4cfd37.pdfUniversity of IsfahanArchives in Sport Management and Leadership2981-05234120260501Business Equestrian: Entrepreneurial Opportunities in the Turkmen Horse Racing Sector22373003910.22108/asml.2025.145872.1087ENHamidrezaGhezelseflooDepartment of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Humanities and Sport Sciences, Gonbad Kavous University, Gonbad Kavous, IranMasoumeMohammadiDepartment of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, IranJournal Article20250712The equine industry represents a vital intersection of cultural heritage and economic potential, particularly in regions where traditional equestrian practices endure. This study investigates entrepreneurial opportunities within the Turkmen horse racing sector in Golestan province, Iran, emphasizing their role in fostering sustainable economic development and cultural preservation. Employing a mixed-methods exploratory approach, the research engaged 15 expert participants—including competition organizers, equestrian club owners, trainers, veterinary and agriculture specialists, tourism experts, and horse industry agents—in the qualitative phase, followed by a quantitative survey of 150 stakeholders (including knowledgeable tourists, riders, breeders, event managers, equipment agents, media representatives, and agricultural officials). Six core dimensions emerged as significant drivers of entrepreneurship: veterinary medicine, horse event organization, horse tourism, breeding and selling horses, horse exports, and agriculture and horse services. Among these, veterinary medicine was found to be the strongest predictor of entrepreneurial success, followed by horse event organization and horse tourism. These findings highlight the transformative potential of the equine sector in leveraging cultural assets for economic growth. Practical implications include the need for strategic investments in equine health infrastructure, modernization of breeding practices, and international branding of Turkmen horses through cross-border collaborations. Such efforts can enhance the sector’s appeal to domestic and global markets, unlocking both economic and cultural value.https://asml.ui.ac.ir/article_30039_ec01aa18c039d190803aa4fce67cd477.pdfUniversity of IsfahanArchives in Sport Management and Leadership2981-05234120260501Authentic and Servant Leadership: Golden Keys to Enhance Innovative Performance in Sports Organizations with the Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy38593018410.22108/asml.2025.147392.1124ENMaziyarKalashiDepartment of Sport Management and Media, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, IranMaryamHosseini AsgarabadiDepartment of Sport Science, Human and Social Sciences Faculty, Golestan University, Gorgan, Iran.MasoudDarabiDepartment of Sport Management, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran0000-0003-1297-8180Journal Article20251115This research investigated the impact of Authentic Leadership and Servant Leadership on Innovative Performance among employees of Tehran Province Sports and Youth Departments, with self-efficacy examined as a mediator. Utilizing a random sampling method, data were gathered from 267 participants via a 32-item, 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares regression in Smart PLS 3. The key findings indicate that while both AL and SL significantly boosted employees' self-efficacy, only AL and SE had a direct, positive effect on IP; SL's direct effect was not significant. Critically, SE served as a significant mediator in the pathways from both leadership styles to IP. This demonstrates that the primary mechanism through which both Servant and Authentic Leadership foster innovation is by indirectly enhancing employees' self-efficacy. The study concludes that cultivating leadership styles that build employee confidence and promoting an innovation-oriented culture are vital for boosting creativity in sports organizations.https://asml.ui.ac.ir/article_30184_87a7d0976cd0fd5f1b3051a73687462c.pdfUniversity of IsfahanArchives in Sport Management and Leadership2981-05234120260501Beyond Visibility: Determining and Ranking the Factors Affecting Out-of-Home Advertising Performance in Sports Arenas60753018510.22108/asml.2025.147235.1121ENFatemehKhaliliyanDepartment of Management and Accounting, College of Farabi, University of Tehran, Tehran, IranGhodratolahBagheri RaghebDepartment of Management and Accounting, College of Farabi, University of Tehran, Tehran, IranAliSaberiDepartment of Management and Accounting, College of Farabi, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran0000-0001-8839-6772BitaArabnarmiDepartment of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, University of Neyshabur, NeyshaburJournal Article20251109Outdoor advertising in sports stadiums is one of the most dynamic forms of marketing communication, yet research on the integrated determinants of its effectiveness remains limited. This study identifies and prioritises the key factors influencing the effectiveness of out-of-home advertising in stadium settings. A Mixed-Methods Sequential Exploratory Design was used, beginning with a qualitative meta-synthesis to extract thematic dimensions, followed by a quantitative Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to prioritise them. The meta-synthesis systematically reviewed 37 peer-reviewed studies published between 1995 and 2025, identified through major academic databases using keywords related to “stadium advertising,” “sports marketing,” and “out-of-home media.” Inclusion criteria focused on empirical and theoretical studies examining advertising effectiveness. Quality (QUAL) appraisal was conducted using the CASP checklist, and inter-rater reliability was confirmed through Cohen’s Kappa (κ = 0.724). Four core dimensions were identified: audience-related, message-related, stadium-related, and game-related factors. In the subsequent quantitative (QUAN) phase, AHP was applied to evaluations from 40 experts in sports management and marketing to determine the relative importance of these dimensions. Results indicate that audience-related factors are most influential, followed by message-, stadium-, and game-related factors. The study provides a comprehensive, evidence-based framework to support the design of more engaging and context-sensitive stadium advertising strategies.https://asml.ui.ac.ir/article_30185_29d2fbd05ece42c3fe2e7c499e6d5aa2.pdfUniversity of IsfahanArchives in Sport Management and Leadership2981-05234120260501Phenomenology and Sports Management: Explaining the Phenomenological Approach with an Emphasis on Studying Risk-Taking Among Mountaineers76933024810.22108/asml.2026.147881.1128ENRasoolNorouzi Seyed HossiniDepartment of Sport Science, Faculty of Humanities, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, IranShahramNazariDepartment of Physical Education Instruction, Farhangian University, Shahid Chamran Campus, Tehran, Iran.ParastooAbrishamiDepartment of Sport Science, Faculty of Humanities, University of Eyvanekey, Eyvanekey, Semnan, Iran.Journal Article20251223Phenomenology, derived from the Greek words phainomenon (“that which appears”) and logos (“the study or revelation of meaning”), is a philosophical and qualitative research approach concerned with understanding lived experience as it is subjectively perceived. Rooted in the foundational work of Edmund Husserl and later developed by philosophers such as Martin Heidegger, phenomenology seeks to explore phenomena as they are experienced prior to interpretation or theoretical explanation. Central concepts include the lifeworld, lived experience, intentionality, temporality, and the bracketing of researchers’ assumptions in order to access authentic meaning. In the field of sports management, phenomenology has gained prominence as a valuable method for examining human experiences related to embodiment, judgment, leadership, and complex social dynamics within sporting environments. By privileging first-person narratives, this approach enables athletes, coaches, and sport managers to articulate their experiences with minimal distortion. Consequently, phenomenological research enhances the depth, richness, and credibility of findings. When applied to mountaineering, it offers nuanced insights into risk perception and decision-making, informing effective management practices and policy development in high-risk sport contexts.https://asml.ui.ac.ir/article_30248_2076efeb2775eebbdbf78df7f055797a.pdfUniversity of IsfahanArchives in Sport Management and Leadership2981-05234120260501Factors Affecting the Indifference of Players in Training for Competitions941072982410.22108/asml.2025.144508.1069ENFatemehRahmatiDepartment of Sport Management, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, IranMasoudNaderian JahroniDepartment of Sport Management, Faculty of and Sport Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, IranJournal Article20250307The research aimed to analyze the factors affecting players' indifference in preparation exercises for the 2024 Taekwondo League competitions. This applied study employed a descriptive method. To identify influencing factors, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 26 individuals—including 13 athletes, 6 coaches, 3 club managers, and 4 referees—who were selected through purposive sampling based on their expertise and experience until theoretical saturation was achieved.<br /><br />Data collection tools included interviews and questionnaires, both validated through content validity and reliability measures. Data analysis was conducted in two phases: initially via open and axial coding of qualitative data, and subsequently using MICMAC software for structural modeling.<br /><br />Qualitative results led to the extraction of 31 conceptual codes across six main categories: managerial factors, club structure and policies, infrastructure, financial issues, environmental conditions, and motivational elements. Quantitative findings from MICMAC analysis showed that managerial and financial factors had the highest driving power, while motivational and infrastructure factors had the highest dependency. The infrastructure category, in particular, was identified as a critical dependent factor, meaning that even small changes in this domain could cause substantial systemic shifts.<br /><br />Based on the integrated findings, it is suggested that club managers prioritize managerial actions (e.g., respecting players’ dignity and addressing their basic needs) and financial mechanisms (e.g., timely bonuses) to improve athletes' motivational levels. This would eventually lead to reduced player indifference in professional training contexts. The findings also reflect the role of distributive justice in reducing perceived unfairness, which is a major cause of demotivation among players.https://asml.ui.ac.ir/article_29824_2c817ee2e0e27356074f198f5d3764e0.pdfUniversity of IsfahanArchives in Sport Management and Leadership2981-05234120260501The Impact of Visual Web Advertising on Brand Equity in Online Sports Shops: The Mediating Roles of Perceived Value and Brand Identity1081213017310.22108/asml.2025.146908.1108ENSeyed Mohammad JavadRazaviDepartment of Sport Sciences, Kashmar Higher Education Institute, Kashmar, Iran
Razavi@kashmar.ac.ir (Corresponding Author)MehdiNazemiDepartment of Sport Sciences, Kashmar Higher Education Institute, Kashmar, IranAzamTolabi-MazrenoDepartment of Physical Education, Farhangian University, Tehran, IranJournal Article20251005The purpose of this study was to examine the role of web visual advertising in the brand equity of online sports stores. This research was causal in nature and conducted using a survey method. The statistical population consisted of customers of online sports stores. Due to the unknown size of the population, the sample size was determined to be 384 individuals, assuming an unlimited population. Standardized questionnaires were used to collect data, including Web Visual Advertising (Martinez et al., 2020), Brand Identity (Alakas et al., 2022), Perceived Value (Deng Wan et al., 2023), and Brand Equity (Azimzadeh et al., 2020). The reliability of the questionnaires, assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, was estimated at 0.81, 0.79, 0.84, and 0.87, respectively. The results of data analysis through Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) indicated that web visual advertising had a significant positive effect on brand equity, perceived value, and brand identity. Moreover, perceived value and brand identity were found to significantly and positively influence brand equity. Accordingly, managers of online sports stores are advised to leverage visual elements in their advertising—such as appealing graphic design, effective color schemes, and creative product displays—to enhance customer perception and foster brand identity, thereby significantly improving their brand equity in the target market.https://asml.ui.ac.ir/article_30173_29adfe4feca3692ab507e413a474623e.pdfUniversity of IsfahanArchives in Sport Management and Leadership2981-05234120260501The Function of Organizational Culture on Anomie and Inertia of Sports Organizations with the Role of the Mediating Variable of Faith Ethics1221312959810.22108/asml.2025.144419.1066ENMehdiSalimiDepartment of Sport Management, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran.AzarMohagheghianDepartment of Sport Management, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, IranElhamAkhavanDepartment of sport management, Faculty of sport sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, IranJournal Article20250218To maintain effectiveness, organizations must continuously evaluate and enhance their organizational culture, thereby preventing and managing organizational anomie and inertia. This study investigated the influence of organizational culture on organizational anomie and inertia, with faith-based ethics acting as a mediating variable. The study population included professors and faculty members in sports management and sociology, as well as senior, middle, and junior managers within sports organizations. A convenience sample of 232 participants was selected. Research variables were measured using the Denison Organizational Culture Survey (2000), a modified version of the organizational anomie scale by Sefid Chian et al. (2018), Haag’s (2014) organizational inertia scale, and a modified version of the faith ethics scale by Khodaparast et al. (2022). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was conducted using LISREL software. The results indicated a significant negative relationship between organizational culture and both organizational inertia and anomie, alongside a significant positive relationship between organizational culture and faith-based ethics. Additionally, faith-based ethics showed a significant negative association with organizational inertia and anomie. These findings suggest that organizational culture plays a vital role in mitigating organizational inertia and anomie, with faith-based ethics serving as an effective mediating factor.https://asml.ui.ac.ir/article_29598_43c8b97361ee07a4bb47186bd86edf02.pdfUniversity of IsfahanArchives in Sport Management and Leadership2981-05234120260501New Physical Education and Active Teacher Development: Examining the Role of General Physical Education in Shaping Student-Teachers’ Professional Identity, Attitudes, and Lifestyle at Farhangian University1321433016710.22108/asml.2025.147074.1112ENEhsanTatariDepartment of Physical Education, Farhangian University, P.O. Box 14665_889, Tehran, Iran.Journal Article20251016This study explores the lived experiences of student–teachers, faculty members, university administrators, and sports instructors in the Farhangian Training University campuses of Khorramabad, Aligudarz, and Borujerd, focusing on the role of general physical education (GPE) in strengthening professional identity, fostering active attitudes, and shaping the lifestyle of students. Employing a qualitative design grounded in hermeneutic phenomenology, the research population included stakeholders in physical education at Lorestan’s Farhangian University. Purposive and snowball sampling continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data were collected through 25 semi structured interviews and analyzed using Van Manen’s (2016) six phase thematic analysis. Data were managed in MAXQDA 2024. Credibility was ensured through participant checking, peer debriefing, and thick description. Findings revealed three core dimensions of identity formation through (GPE): physical and psychological self awareness, belonging to the teaching profession, and redefinition of the professional role from passive to active teacher. Active attitudes toward physical activity were reinforced through enhanced intrinsic motivation, self efficacy in designing movement based educational activities, and positive perspectives on student health. In terms of lifestyle, themes of stress management and resilience, sustainable physical and mental health, and role modeling within society were emphasized. Facilitating factors included infrastructure, innovative teaching methods, and cultural support, while barriers encompassed limited resources, weak planning, and cultural resistance. Overall, the study shows that when designed and implemented with an identity driven approach, (GPE) can transcend physical fitness, shaping the professional identity and active lifestyle of future teachers.https://asml.ui.ac.ir/article_30167_ab3bfe08a102831f132481aee554244a.pdfUniversity of IsfahanArchives in Sport Management and Leadership2981-05234120260501Foresight Study on the Development of Weightlifting in Iraq: Key Drivers Identified through Cross-Impact Analysis1441623044610.22108/asml.2026.148083.1133ENAhmedRadhi Fadhil AlhusseiniDepartment of Sport Management, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.FarzadNobakhtDepartment of Sport Management, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, IranMehrdadMoharramzadehDepartment of Sport Management, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.AbbasNaghizadeh-BaghiDepartment of Sports Management, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology. University of Mohaghegh Ardabili. Ardabil, IranJournal Article20260130This study investigates the primary factors influencing the growth of weightlifting in Iraq, emphasizing the identification of significant challenges and opportunities within the sport. the research utilizes a foresight methodology, integrating Delphi and MICMAC cross-impact analysis to identify 20 essential drivers within political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal spheres. A purposive panel of 15 experts comprising sport management professionals, national and international level weightlifting coaches, academic specialists in sport development, and governance members of the Iraqi Weightlifting Federation and National Olympic Committee participated in the three-round Delphi process. the findings reveal that the evolution of weightlifting is influenced by a multifaceted interaction political endorsement, economic assets, social perceptions, and legal structures, all of which either facilitate or obstruct advancement. Political factors like provincial autonomy and support for grassroots clubs, legal frameworks for coaching standards, and anti-doping rules were important, as were economic factors like the ability to get different kinds of funding and sponsorship. The study emphasizes the necessity cultivating affirmative cultural perceptions weightlifting and enhancing community involvement, especially among youth and women, to boost participation. Moreover, technological advancements, such as the digitalization of talent identification, were identified as having a significant yet supportive impact on the sport's development, which is heavily reliant on the underlying political and social frameworks. by making explicit the interplay among political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal forces, this study offers both a conceptual map and a practical agenda for those seeking to guide the sport toward a more sustainable and inclusive futurehttps://asml.ui.ac.ir/article_30446_2183cce90f582fd2e4ee4cf76365bd28.pdf