Ranking of provinces in terms of athletics development by using numerical taxonomy method

Due to the influence of different aspects of the sport, especially athletics in the community as one of the indicators of economic and social development, this study ought to identify the least-developed and non-development regions, leading to proper planning for reduce regional disparities.The present study was descriptive and analytical. The statistical population consisted of 30 the Organization of Youth and Sports. The statistical sample was same with statistical population. The data’s of provinces includes, athletes, coaches, medals were won by each province, sport facilities … by the researcher made questionnaire. Descriptive statistic methods were used to describe data and inferential statistics methods (factor analysis) and numerical taxonomy to analyze the data (α= 0.05).The results indicate that 10.34% of provinces were developed, 48.27% leas-development & 41.37% non-development. Also Tehran in comparison with the other provinces was non-homogeneous. Determining to recognize the leas-development and non-development provinces in term of athletics, will help sports authorities to allocate scheduling of priority in regions.