A contextualised analysis of elite sport policies in South Africa

The success of an athlete is highly dependent on the performance capacity of the nation’s sports system and its effectiveness in utilising resources for the welfare of elite sport. The purpose of this paper was to contextualise an elite sports model for South Africa by adapting the Sport Policy Factors Leading to International Sporting Success (SPLISS) framework. This follows the need for an updated strategy, framework, and better planning to improve performance outcomes at future major international competitions. A qualitative research approach was used, drawing on semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including elite athletes and coaches, as well as existing literature. The stakeholders’ perspectives led to the conceptualisation of a 10-component model for international sporting success in South Africa. The model is positioned as a contextualised adaptation of the SPLISS framework, informed by South Africa’s unique historical, socioeconomic, political, and cultural context. The 10-component conceptual model can serve as a benchmark for the government, sports federations, and agencies to develop a framework for elite sport policies and programmes, as well as to mobilise and allocate resources accurately.