https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7947-0707
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Abstract
The present study conducts a comprehensive survey of the evolving discourse surrounding women’s competitive sport in Iran from 1979 to 2020. This research identifies three distinctive discursive sequences delineating the trajectory of women’s sport within this timeline. The initial phase, termed ‘Suspending Discourse’ emerged during the 1980s due to the disruptive effects of the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War, resulting in the cessation of women’s competitive sport in the country. Subsequently, the ‘Modality Discourse’ evolved after the late 1980s, characterized by efforts to align women’s sport with Islamic regulations. Noteworthy accomplishments during this period include the establishment of the Islamic Women’s Games, gender-segregated competitions, and increased international participation due to the acceptance of Islamic veils for Muslim female athletes by some international sports federations. Lastly, the ‘Discourse of Conditional Growth’ signifies the remarkable advancements in women’s sports, notably in national team championships and the development of semi-professional sports leagues since the 1990s, despite persisting challenges. This study unveils the transformative phases of discourse, illustrating the progression of women’s competitive sports in Iran.
Disclosure Statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Data Availability Statement
The datasets generated during and/or analyzed during the current study are not publicly available due to the obligations of authors for data protection but are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Notes
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26 Ibid., 120–39.
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31 Ziaee et al., ‘Female Elite Sports Achievements’, 208.
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33 Ibid.
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Additional information
Notes on contributors
Bahram Yousefi
Bahram Yousefi , an accomplished associate professor at Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran, boasts three decades of prolific research spanning sports management, social sciences, and Iranian sports history. Specializing in women’s issues and sports, he continues to contribute significantly to the field.
Zohreh Hassani
Zohreh Hassani , a dynamic assistant professor of sports management at Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran, delves into the compelling intersection of women and sports, alongside exploring key social issues within the sports landscape.
Akram Ghobadi Yeganeh
Akram Ghobadi Yeganeh , holding a Ph.D. in Sports Management from Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran, has a rich academic background. Specializing in sports management, she has extended her expertise through postdoctoral studies in women’s sports. Currently, she dedicates her time to teaching and groundbreaking research in the realm of women’s sports.
Rasool Norouzi Seyed Hossini
Rasool Norouzi Seyed Hossini , an esteemed associate professor of sports management at Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran, is recognized for his profound insights into social issues in Iranian sports. His expansive expertise includes delving into the history and philosophy of leisure and sports, contributing significantly to academic discourse.