Multivariate exploration of elite sport national systems

The SPLISS project (Sports Policy factors Leading to International Sporting Success) develops better understanding of elite sport systems and factors that contribute to sporting success (DeBosscher et al, 20101)). The methodology makes use of a large sport policy inventory as well as surveys for athletes, coaches and performance directors. Critical success factors were defined and combined in nine policy pillars (or dimensions): finance, organisation, sport participation, talent identification, athletic career and post career, training facilities, coaches, competition and research. SPLISS 2.0 provided results that shaped elite sport policies in 15 countries in 2011 (DeBosscher et al, 20152)).
This paper aims to investigate SPLISS 2.0 data from an exploratory multivariate point of view. Patterns are explored in the pillars as well as in the countries. Exploratory factor analysis is applied in order to identify underlying factor structures. Cluster analysis is applied with the intent to identify groups of countries with similar characteristics.