Abstract
This study investigates the discrepancies in the implementation of safeguarding policies within the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) and its affiliated National Federations (NFs). Despite SASCOC's mandate to uphold the delivery of high-performance sport, development of sport in South Africa, and good governance maintenance, significant gaps exist in the execution of safeguarding measures designed to protect those who exist in the South African sport ecosystem. This study uses a qualitative method to examine the safeguarding policies of different NFs and SASCOC. It also includes interviews with people who oversee enforcing these policies in these groups. Using a systems thinking framework, the study reveals that the persistent disjuncture between SASCOC and the national federations in safeguarding policy implementation stems from differing interpretations of policy implementation standards and accountability measures. The findings suggest that while SASCOC could improve its education and training mechanisms, there should also be a reciprocal process where the National Federations demonstrate greater accountability in their safe sport processes. A six-phase thematic analysis identified critical gaps in current safeguarding practices, providing actionable recommendations to improve policy adherence and foster a safer sporting environment. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of governance in South African sports and underscores the need for collaborative efforts between SASCOC and NFs to further enhance safeguarding measures across the South African sporting landscape.