Embracing Tradition: Unraveling the Influence of Social Support and Identity on Indigenous Sports Participation

Sports participation is known to provide numerous physical and psychological benefits, yet indigenous populations often face unique barriers that limit their involvement in sports. This study explores how social support and identity impact participation in indigenous sports, reflecting the enduring embrace of tradition. Using Structural Equation Modeling and Partial Least Squares, the research analyzed 200 athletes from western provinces in Iran. The results suggested a positive correlation between social support and social identity, as well as social support and sports orientation. Moreover, social identity was found to play a mediating role in the relationship between social support and sports orientation. The findings highlighted the pivotal role of social support in fostering enthusiasm and participation in sports. The study's findings and practical implications can inform the development of strategies and interventions to promote and sustain participation in indigenous sports, their role in preserving culture and community cohesion, while fostering a supportive and culturally rich sporting environment.