TIME AND TIMING CONCEPTS IN ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGEMENT IN SPORTS DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTH AFRICAN FOOTBALL CLUBS

Abstract

This study examined the influence of time and timing concepts on administrative management and sports development in South African football clubs. Recognizing the increasing complexities and performance expectations within football administration, the study sought to determine how the application of time and timing strategies affects the operational efficiency and developmental outcomes of football clubs. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and a structured questionnaire developed on a 4-point Likert scale was administered to 140 football administrators, coaches, and management staff from selected clubs. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) to answer the research questions, while Pearson Product Moment Correlation was used to test the hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed a significant positive relationship between the application of time and timing concepts in administrative management and the level of sports development achieved by the clubs. Respondents strongly agreed that effective scheduling, prompt decision-making, adherence to operational timelines, and coordinated execution of plans enhanced athlete performance, talent identification, infrastructure development, and overall club growth. The study concluded that time and timing are strategic resources in sports administration, and their effective application promotes sustainable sports development. The study recommends that football clubs institutionalize time management frameworks, conduct regular time-use audits, integrate timing training in staff development programmes, and that governing bodies incorporate timing standards into regulatory policies. These measures will enhance administrative efficiency and accelerate sports development in South African football clubs.