Developing a Local Model of Leadership Based on Soft Power in Iran Sport Federations

The aim of this study was to develop a local model of leadership based on soft power in Iran sport federations. This study had a qualitative approach and the method of grounded theory was used as the research methodology. The data were collected by library resources, field observation, audio media and in-depth and open interviews with 23 elite experts. The validity of this study was investigated and verified by interviewees and then by specialist professors. The reliability was obtained by auditing as 89%. Data were analyzed in three stages: open, axial and selective coding. Then, a qualitative research model was designed. The results of this study indicated that 290 codes or initial concepts as well as 77 concepts and 7 categories were extracted. They were developed on a paradigmatic model including leadership based on soft power as the axial category and causal conditions (sport character, spiritual health), underlying factors (social character, political character), intervening conditions (sport skill and expertise, unique characteristics of sport), strategies (sport culture), and consequences (related to leader, followers and organizations). According to these results, managers of sport federations are recommended to use the model provided in this study for further influence on the followers and gaining popularity.