Modeling the Selection of National Wrestling Team Athletes Using Content Analysis and Comparative Analysis of Global Sports Selection Systems

Subject Areas : Sport Sciences Quarterly

Gholamhossein Pezeshghi ¹ , hossein allahyari ^{2 *} , mina mostahfezian ³

1 - 1. PhD Student in Sport Management, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran
2 - faculty of Zanjan Azad university
3 - 3. Associate Professor in Sport Management, Sport Medicine Research Center, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran

Received: 2024-12-22 Accepted : 2025-03-23 Published : 2025-05-18

Keywords: Wrestling, Athlete Selection, Tactical Criteria, Comparative Analysis, Iran,

Abstract :

This study aims to examine and compare the selection criteria for national wrestling team athletes in Iran with those used in successful countries like Russia, Japan, the United States, and Cuba. Given the importance of wrestling in Iran and its role in international achievements, the need for more precise and scientific selection systems is evident. This research identifies physical, psychological, tactical, social, and psycho-social criteria in the athlete selection process. The methodology employed a mixed-methods approach. In the qualitative section, deductive content analysis was conducted using semi-structured interviews with coaches and experts, and data were coded and analyzed using Nvivo software. In the quantitative section, data on the performance of wrestlers between 2000 and 2020 were analyzed using SPSS and R, comparing the selection criteria of the chosen countries. Findings revealed that countries like Russia and Japan, which utilize more comprehensive criteria, including tactical and psycho-social skills, perform better on the international stage. A strong correlation between tactical criteria and success in international competitions was also observed. In contrast, Iran’s selection system primarily focuses on physical and psychological attributes. The final conclusion suggests that Iran needs to overhaul its athlete selection system by incorporating broader criteria, particularly tactical and psycho-social skills, to enhance the chances of success in global competitions.

 

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