Abstract
Purpose of the study. The purpose of this study was to identify, using a Delphi Technique, what actions experts believe will increase African American, Asian American, and Hispanic American female participation in sports. The study also examined those actions believed to be most important and those believed to have the highest chance of being implemented at the secondary and collegiate level. Finally, it determines which actions the experts were able to find consensus on. Methodology. The researcher used the Delphi technique to reach consensus among an anonymous group of experts using a series of iterative surveys. The study produced descriptive and inferential data with two groups; the statistics were tabulated using means, standard deviations, and t-tests. Findings. The intent of this study was to identify actions that would increase the participation opportunities of females of color. The experts found little consensus on the likelihood of implementation of the actions. In fact, one expert suggested that the actions most in need of implementation had no chance of being implemented. A persistent theme emerged: the changes will take time and money. Participation numbers for females of color are unlikely to make significant increases without substantial change. The question left unanswered is who will lead the change efforts. The K–12 schools and the neighborhood parks/recreation centers are already financially strapped. Two possible scenarios are offered as alternative futures. One future scenario offers a continuation of the current state, while the second scenario offers a future that embraces change and improvement. Conclusions. There are cultural barriers to participation in some minority cultures. A grassroots effort is needed to educate the parents of these girls regarding the benefits of participation. Local parks and recreation centers must reach out to the minority community and offer free clinics and fitness activities for the entire family. Efforts must be made to seek involvement in minority communities to coach, officiate, and administer programs for the local community.