The results of this study highlight the importantrole of the institutional environmentin dictating the organizational behaviour ofNSOs and in determining their ability toproduce satisfying results. NSOs all togetherconstitute a distinct societal sector (Scottand Meyer, 1991) representing the mostsignicant component of the Hellenic sportdelivery system, within which political interdependenciesand relations have developedtheir own character. These organizationshave formal authority over the managementof the sport concerned, but not always directcontrol of the organizational activities involved.