Integrating Macro- and Meso-Level Approaches: A Comparative Analysis of Elite Sport Development in Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom

Drawing on a research study that analysed elite sport policy change in Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom (U.K.), this article underscores the utility of integrating macro- and meso-levels of analysis. We illustrate how macro-level analysis can help explain both the membership of meso-level advocacy coalitions and the policy outcomes from them. The macro-level analysis takes two forms: (i) an exploration of State theory (neo-pluralism); and (ii) an investigation of two macro-political features of the State—the parliamentary support enjoyed by sporting interest groups and the organisational structure of the State. We conclude that despite all three countries being characterised as “least centralised States” where we would expect to find considerable checks and balances to a dominant “State presence” in a particular policy sector, federal/central governments (and their primary sporting agencies) in Australia, Canada and the U.K. have exerted considerable influence in promoting and shaping the values, organisation and activities of elite sport advocacy coalitions.