Final answer:
According to conflict theory, sport does play a positive role in promoting diversity and equal opportunity, but there are disparities in minority representation in leadership positions.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to conflict theory, sport does play a positive role in promoting diversity and equal opportunity. The theory suggests that social structures, including sports, are inherently unequal and reinforce issues of privilege for certain groups based on factors like race, gender, and class. By promoting diversity and equal opportunity in sports, we can challenge and disrupt these inequalities and create a more inclusive society.
However, when looking at the percentages of minorities in sports leadership positions compared to their proportion of the general U.S. population, there does appear to be a limited representation of minorities. Minorities account for a lower percentage of sports leaders at both the college and professional levels, particularly in higher-profile sports. This disparity highlights the ongoing challenges and inequalities faced by minorities in sports leadership positions.