Introduction: This study aimed to develop a strategic plan for directorate of youth and sport office in East Azerbaijan province.
Methodology: The method used in this study was descriptive-analytic. The statistical population included 175 people of directors, managers, the staff and heads who work in the youth and sport office of East Azerbaijan province. The sample size included all members of the population; meaning 154 people (88%) participated in the study. In order to collect data, a researcher-made questionnaire was prepared. The validity of this questionnaire was confirmed by 15 members of sport management professors and sport experts. To analyze the data, besides descriptive indices, evaluation matrix of external and internal factors and SWOT analysis were used which were applied to determine the strategic positioning and strategies, respectively.
Results: The results of present study indicated that directorate sports and youth office in East Azerbaijan province scored 2.57 based on the internal factors of evaluation matrix. Thus, the strengths of this organization outperformed its weaknesses in terms of internal factors. In addition, it scored 2.44 based on the external factors of evaluation matrix. Therefore, the threats of this organization outperformed its opportunities in terms of external factors.
Discussion: In general, it can be concluded that the directorate of sports and youth office in East Azerbaijan province is in ST (Strong/Threat) part of the matrix. Therefore, the strategies suggested at the end of this study can be used to exploit the available maximum ability in order to deal with pressures, challenges and environmental threats.