This research focuses if a sociocultural theory such as the stakeholder theory or social value theory can be applicable to enhance the theoretical explanation of the SPLISS (Sport Policy Factors Leading to International Sporting Success) model. The SPLISS model is a comparative high performance sport (HPS) model which was created by researchers from Belgium, United Kingdom, and Netherlands in 2002 with the purpose of seeking which factors will lead countries to international sporting success (e.g. Olympics, Paralympics, World Championships) (Legg & DeBosscher, nd). A comparative HPS model is a research model that has a set of ingredients composed by academic researcher(s) to compare different HPS systems (To & Smolianov & Semotiuk, under review). A HPS system is the communication or non-communication and organization of stakeholders (such as athletes, coaches, organizations, government) that focuses on HPS within a country (To et al., under review).

The SPLISS model is based on the ideology of world competitiveness that is routinely used in economic studies (De Bosscher & Shibli & van Bottenburg & De Knop & Truyens, 2010). The theoretical framework used to develop the SPLISS model is based on the Porter’s five forces analysis framework developed by Michael Porter in 1979; threat of new entrants, bargaining power of suppliers, threat of substitute products or services, bargaining power of buyers, rivalry among existing competitors (Porter, 2000). The SPLISS model is a nine pillar model that is evaluate and assess by primary stakeholders within the HPS environment; athletes, coachers, performance directors (De Bosscher & De Knop & van Bottenburg & Shibli, 2006).

The key questions that are prevalent within this research study are: • Can a sociocultural theory be applicable to explain the theoretical ideology of the SPLISS model? • Can a sociocultural theory explain the HPS environment and system? • Can a sociocultural theory be used within a comparative HPS model? • Can the combination of an economic theory and a sociocultural theory enhance the theoretical explanation of the SPLISS model?

This investigation used the research methods of content analysis and triangulation of all primary and secondary sources related to the topic. An extensive literature review was undertaken covering past journal publications on the area of the SPLISS model, the Porter’s five forces analysis framework, and the sociocultural theories such as the stakeholder theory and the social value theory. Further sources of information included documents published by the SPLISS consortium group.

Theoretical frameworks are important as they are the building blocks to explain a certain phenomenon or concept. By truly understanding and investigating the theories behind the SPLISS model, it will enhance the reliability and validity of the model. This research furthers the theoretical framework of the SPLISS model and advances the academic research that has been done on comparative HPS models and HPS systems.