Factors influencing the performance of sports academies in Nairobi County, Kenya

Abstract

Sports academies in Kenya have been experiencing a significant increase in popularity, particularly in urban areas, as evidenced by their growing numbers and rising enrolment. However, there is limited empirical information on the extent to which these organizations contribute to the professional careers of their graduates, as well as on their financial and non-financial objectives. Consequently, this study sought to examine the factors influencing the performance of sports academies in Kenya. The objectives of the study were as follows: to establish the influence of management-related factors on the performance of sports academies in Nairobi County, to determine the influence of resource-related factors on the performance of sports academies in Nairobi County, and to assess the influence of environment-related factors on the performance of sports academies in Nairobi County. The research was grounded in the Stakeholder Theory and the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory. A positivist research philosophy was adopted, supported by a descriptive cross-sectional research design. Although there are approximately 60 sports academies distributed across the 47 counties in Kenya, the study focused on 20 sports academies located within Nairobi County, which constituted the units of analysis. In each academy, six key management level respondents were selected, comprising the Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/founder, head doctor, technical director, general director, head coach, and counselors. This selection resulted in a total of 120 respondents who participated as units of observation. Data collection was conducted through an online administration of a structured questionnaire that was rigorously tested for validity and reliability. Descriptive and multiple regression statistical analyses were performed, with results presented in tables, accompanied by interpretations and implications. The findings revealed strong positive correlations between the independent variables (resource, management, and environment-related factors) and the dependent variable (organizational performance). Notably, the model accounted for 62.8% of the variation in the organizational performance of sports academies, with resource-related factors exhibiting the most significant impact, followed by management and environment related factors. The research concluded that management, resource, and environmental factors significantly influence the performance of sports academies. Accordingly, the study recommends the encouragement of public-private partnerships to support facility development. Additionally, policy initiatives should aim to promote equal access to public sports facilities at both the national and county levels to facilitate optimal utilization by sports academies. From a practical perspective, the research advocates for sports academy managers to implement business model innovations that enhance organizational sustainability and competitiveness. Furthermore, the formation of partnerships and collaborations with other organizations is recommended, as such alliances can foster the shared use of physical facilities, which are often limited.