Measuring performance support team effectiveness in elite sport: beyond outcomes to mediators and structures

Performance Support Teams (PSTs) in elite sport must demonstrate impact and effectiveness. This commentary highlights critical gaps in how PST effectiveness is currently measured and evaluated. Drawing on experiences and exploratory insights from three experienced PST leaders, we argue that PST effectiveness cannot be assessed on outcomes alone; leaders must also measure mediators, emergent states, and teamwork behaviours. We further contend that integrated data systems should be treated as critical enablers – not optional tools – of effective PST working, and that organisational alignment should be reframed as an active mediator. The commentary offers practical recommendations for PST leaders, organisations, and researchers.