Sporting for All – Bringing sports to everyone

The AIMS family once again showed a strong presence at the IF Forum 2019 held in Lausanne from 28th – 30th November 2019. Most of the federations, council members had been present and the topic could not have been a more needed one, “Athlete Centred Sport” Many different strategies, ideas and programs were discussed and all participants are aligned when it comes to keeping the athletes’ interests at the core of daily work. Sports must all stand together with an investment towards the future with fights against doping, match-fixing and ensuring that the world’s athletes are clean which is the protection of the strict code of fair play. AIMS family were strongly represented on the panel including the President of AIMS spoke about the protection of clean athletes, Sue Holloway from IDBF joined panel on Athlete’s Welfare and Mental health, Rebecca Mandefou from FISav touched on strengthening the athletes’ voice while her President, Dr Julie Gabriel spoke on safeguarding the athletes. Alwin Oberkersch, Athlete and Executive Board Member, from IFA joined the panel on the same topic. The representation of the AIMS members especially the athletes showed the credibility AIMS has as an IOC and GAISF recognised umbrella body.  

The 2019 WMF World Championships has taken place in one of China’s most historical and beautiful cities, Zhouzhuang, known for its canals and is called “The Venice of China”. The AIMS President had the honour to be part of the breathtaking opening ceremony, showcasing the unique culture of China, integrating sporting elements of minigolf. The AIMS president also had the opportunity to congratulate the AIMS General Secretary, Dr Gerhard Zimmermann on his re-election and the success of this World Championships is the testimony of Mr Zimmermann’s vision taking a sport known for all abilities from strong to stronger.

World-renowned sports personality Stephan Fox needs no introduction in the world of sport. A former World Champion who transitioned through various roles including administration and where today, he is the President of AIMS the IOC recognised umbrella organisation for Non-Olympic recognised sports. Mr Fox is also Vice-President of GAISF, the world umbrella organisation for Olympic and Non-Olympic sports promoting the mission of one voice for all sport. Stephan Fox has dedicated his life to sport from early childhood and has spent over 40 years being a dedicated martial artist promoting the benefits of sport. Mr Fox has taught and lectured in more than 80 countries around the world on both the physical and psychological benefits of exercise and using sport as a tool towards social change and peace.   He has hosted over 100 television series and was the host of the Emmy-nominated reality show Challenger and the show, Contender. Stephan Fox is the driving force behind many social initiatives, where his strategy for success is by forming alliances to benefit children in need. On the 30th of August 2019, Mr Fox received the highest recognition being awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Martial Arts, now a proud addition to the one he already received […]

GAISF President Raffaele Chiulli stated in the press conference “the world urban games will be a cocktail of sport, music, street art, dance and family”, he was spot on. GAISF and Budapest have created the perfect formula in a short span of time and delivered an event not only for new generations but all generations. It was GAISF’s idea to give Budapest the option to host once again in 2021 in order to reap the rewards of 2019 and for GAISF to walk before running. The three day event over beautiful sunny Budapest was not only a sport event, it was a festival of all ages, where the children had the chance to play, explore and experience the different sports. A fine example was the female 3X3 Russian team, who won the gold medal and were right next to the children playing for fun and dreaming to play on the big court one day. The World Urban Games was about getting involved, having fun and where all walks of life came together. Children experienced roller-skating and brought their own bikes to witness the world’s best BMX riders flying towards the sun. A congratulations must go to the city of Budapest for being the first and […]

The IAF team had a wonderful participation at the World Martial Arts Masterships in Korea. We were present in the event with an Aikido seminar conducted by our Ambassador, Shihan Christian Tissier 8 Dan, and a complex demonstration session. Aikido had the weekend of 31 Aug – 1 Sep allocated in the international martial arts event that took place in Chungju, South Korea. The first day comprised the Aikikai Aikido seminar conducted by Shihan Christian Tissier 8 Dan, who was the Ambassador of Aikido at the World Martial Arts Masterships 2019. The participants followed his directions with great interest and interacted with new people on tatami for practicing the Aikido techniques. The second day comprised the Aikido demonstration session, called Embukai. After the opening ceremony, that was lead by Shihan Christian Tissier, the session started with the demonstration offered by Korea Aikido Federation. The IAF team presented the demonstrations on several sections: 1) Basic techniques 2) Advanced techniques 3) Weapons 4) Experts. The final demonstration was offered by the IAF Ambassador, Shihan Christian Tissier 8 Dan.  

Aim President, Stephan Fox, was the guest of honour and keynote speaker at the 2019 sepaktakraw conference with delegates from over 40 countries. Sepaktakraw General Secretary,  Mr Abdul Halim Kader, welcomed the AIMS President and gave a full report to the delegates and the President on all recent developments of sepaktakraw as one of the founding members of AIMS. The AIMS President also had a chance to mingle and meet sepaktakraw athletes from around the world. The AIMS President spoke about how the sport is the universal element in cultures and how AIMS will continue to promote Olympism based on culture and sport. Mr Fox emphasised on sports and human rights and that every individual must have the possibility to practise sport and this must be done without any discrimination and that sport is one of the best ambassadors to promote human rights and the inclusion of all. The President presented special plaques to sepaktakraw leadership, the Vice President, Mr Boonchai Lohrpipat, and the General Secretary, Mr Abdul Halim Kader. The General Secretary thanked the AIMS President and stated that ISTAF will continue to be a valuable member of the Olympic and AIMS family.

2019 Marks the 55th anniversary of Judo as an Olympic sport. It has debuted in 1964 so there could be no better place, one year before the 2020 Olympics, as to celebrate it in Tokyo. Judo is coming home, literally. Judo has become one f the most recognisable sports in the world and the credit must go to the IJF President, Marius Vizer, who has been acknowledged at the gala with the IOC most prestigious trophies, the IOC President’s Trophy. An achievement for the Judo family. It was a night to remember where 6 decades of Olympic champions were honoured. Many VIPs were presented that night, with IOC represented by John Coates, GAISF and SportAccord by Raffaele Chiulli. Congratulations to Judo also on all the social work that Judo family is doing.

AIMS President, Stephan Fox, had the honour to visit the 2019 Fistball World Championships and also the IFA Awards Ceremony and United by Sports conference. President Fox congratulated the outgoing IFA President, Karl Weiss, on all his achievements over his 8 years of Presidency from 27 to 61 national federations. He also honoured Mr Weiss for all his work in the AIMS council and is looking forward to continued cooperation until the end of his term. The President certainly congratulated Jorn Verleger for becoming the new President and his energy and professionalism shines through all the work. He especially congratulated IFA on the congress and future planning, building on the IFA youth towards the future. The President also was taken in at the capacity arena with the exciting matches and Germany being crowned World Champion 2019. Congratulations to the IFA family.

The AIMS family would like to congratulate Jorn Verleger as the 6th President of the International Fistball Associations. Mr Verleger has been the General Secretary of IFA since 2015 and has now replaced the former President, Karl Weiss. AIMS is looking forward to continuing the close cooperation with IFA with Mr Verleger and Mr Weiss, the former President, will continue his role as the AIMS council member until the end of his term.

The first official press conference of the 16th WMF Minigolf World Championships took place on Saturday, July 13th in Kunshan, China. The championships will be held near Kunshan in the ancient water town Zhouzhuang on October 18th – 27th. WMF President Dr. Gerhard Zimmermann represented WMF in the press conference and was one of the three speakers. In his speech, Zimmermann thanked the local organizer Kunshan Invengo Network Industrial Park Co., Ltd. for their cooperation and huge efforts for the minigolf sport, referred to big development possibilities for minigolf sport as an acknowledged official sport in China. He also described the current strategies of World Minigolf Sport Federation to support the national minigolf development in China by combining sport, education, media and business. A lot of media representatives and government officials were present at the conference and Chinese media has already published a lot of news from the press conference.  

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) today officially opened Olympic House – one of the most sustainable buildings in the world. The inauguration was the highlight of the very emblematic and emotional celebrations to mark the 125th anniversary of the IOC, which was founded on 23 June 1894 by Pierre de Coubertin. The ceremony was attended by 700 guests, including the AIMS President representing the AIMS family, Mr Stephan Fox, President of the Swiss Confederation, Ueli Maurer; the IOC Members; the Presidents of the 206 National Olympic Committees and the International Sports Federations; and more than 30 Olympic medallists who, together with the Olympic medallists amongst the IOC Members, have won more than 125 medals at the Olympic Games. For the traditional ribbon-cutting at the foot of the iconic unity staircase of Olympic House, IOC President Bach was joined by President Ueli Maurer, the IOC Executive Board members, the President of the Vaud Council of State, Nuria Gorrite; Council of State members Pascal Broulis and Philippe Leuba; the Mayor of Lausanne, Grégoire Junod; and a number of Olympic medallists. Designed to reflect the IOC’s overarching mission to make the world a better place through sport and the reforms of Olympic Agenda […]

It started at the SportAccord Convention 2018 in Bangkok that the Thai Powerlifting showcased their sport to the Thai public with the full support of the International Powerlifting Federation, AIMS and United Through Sports initiative. From then on, international championships have been organised under the energetic management of Mr John Coyle and close cooperation with IPF and AIMS. History is made as for the first time, Thai Powerlifting team will travel to Sweden and the proud national team and Mr John Coyle invited Mr Robert Keller, IPF Secretary-General and AIMS council member and the AIMS President, Mr Stephan Fox, to meet the athletes. Mr Keller showed his pride thanking Mr Coyle for all his devotion and the AIMS President congratulated the athletes on their achievements and wished them the time of their lives for their first world championships.

The 2019 AIMS General Assembly was held during the SportAccord Convention on the Gold Coast and many important topics took place. There was a full agenda with many important topics, presentations and AIMS continued role as one of the IOC and GAISF recognized IF umbrella bodies. 2018 was an important year for AIMS as 4 sports received provisional IOC recognition. Namely, IFI, FILa, WAKO and FIAS. AIMS will continue to work closely with the IOC and GAISF and in cooperation with ASOIF, AWIF and ARISF to benefit each individual member federation. AIMS president, Stephan Fox, had the honour to welcome many dignities such as the 8th UN General Secretary, Ban Ki-moon, WADA President, Sir Craig Reedie, Sports Department Senior Manager, Andrew Hoffer and many others to the Congress. The IOC made a detailed presentation for the cooperation and future recognition of the individual IFs. WADA outgoing president, Sir Craig Reedie, highlighted the close cooperation between WADA and AIMS over the years. The AIMS General Secretary, Gerhard Zimmermann, gave a detailed report and the AIMS Congress also approved the decisions of the executive council for the continued United Through Sports initiative and also for a further term of Stephan Fox as AIMS […]

The AIMS Hats Off party has become an institution at the yearly SportAccord Convention to celebrate initiatives, achievements and just coming together as friends. In 2018, 4 of the AIMS members have been recognised, namely WAKO, IFI, FILa and FIAS. This was a record as never before that the IOC has given provisional recognition to 4 sports within 1 year. The venue was at the Kurrawa Surf Club and it was a full house with IOC members, Presidents of World Federations, Queensland Government, City of Gold Coast and so many more. GAISF President, Raffaele Chiulli, and AIMS President, Stephan Fox, welcomed everyone in the beautiful surrounding then gave the floor to the 4 recognised federations. President of Icestock Sport, Manfred Shaffer, gave a special token to AIMS President, Stephan Fox, with his original hat from 2002 when Ice Stock first submit their IOC recognition. At the end, a toast was made towards continued cooperation. They have now moved to the ARISF family but they never leave AIMS family, they will always be our members by heart.

After the last AIMS council meeting which was held during the youth Olympics in Buenos Aires, the first 2019 council meeting was held on the Gold Coast during the 2019 SportAccord Convention. AIMS President, Stephan Fox, welcomed the entire council to this important meeting and convention. Many important decisions had been made with the strategic plan for the next 2 years. The AIMS President also confirms another term in the GAISF council.

Sport Is Your Gang is an initiative which started many years ago providing safe playgrounds especially for children from challenged backgrounds. The Bangkok Sport Accord Convention 2018 was hailed as one of the most successful, especially with the UN initiative born by AIMS, one of the five IOC and GAISF recognized umbrella bodies. The initiative was called United Through Sports (UTS) and the three day festival, with the participation of over 60 sports and conferences which was given full patronage of the IOC, involved many participants including refugee and disadvantaged youth. Money was raised to give sport equipment and great playground areas. One of the initiatives, still in the aftermath and thanks to the help of UTS, IFMA, Right to Play and the sponsoring of Extreme Entertainment, was the creation of the Bangkok Urban Youth Games. The event is also under the patronage of Khunying Patama, Thailand’s IOC member. The event series will run for 5 months with the final being played on His Majesty’s, The King’s birthday celebration.  

Fistball is a very popular sport governed by the International Fistball Association (IFA) with national federations in around 60 countries. IFA is a member of GAISF, AIMS, IWGA and a full medal sport in The World Games. Bangkok hosted the 2018 Sport Accord Convention and history was made with the Bangkok Sport Festival under patronage of the IOC. IFA saw this as a great opportunity to set the roots for a national federation and sent one of their most outstanding female athletes, Ines Mayer, to Thailand and Rangsit University took the initiative to support, establish the sport in their own university and promote it through other universities in Thailand. Ines, then established programs in this university and organized its first Fistball tournament and since then has established the sport in the Kingdom of Thailand. Rangsit University organized a coaches workshop hosted in the beautiful compound of the university and Ines was again invited to coach and further promote the sport. AIMS President Stephan Fox was the keynote speaker at this event and he thanked first of all, Rangsit University for their efforts to promote new sports in Thailand, Ines for her outstanding Pioneer work and IFA as an AIMS member […]

Two new umbrella organizations are to be created after the meetings the IAF representatives had with several organizations in Turkey and Saudi Arabia, this week. The representatives of 5 Hombu recognized organizations in Turkey had a fruitful meeting with Dorin Marchis, IAF DC Member, on Friday, the 22nd of February 2019. TURKISH AIKIKAI is the new umbrella organization that will comprise the 5 entities: Antalya Aikikai Istanbul Aikikai Turkish Aikikai Aikido Organization United Aikido Organization Yalcin Yenice Aikido Organization. It was a great joy to see that everybody present at the meeting was very willing to collaborate so that Turkish Aikikai becomes IAF member. Also, the conditions of another umbrella organization, in Saudi Arabia, were being discussed during the same day by Wilko Vriesman, IAF General Secretary, with Saudi Aikikai and Saudi Aikido Association. Both organizations agreed to sign a covenant of cooperation in this direction. The IAF representative had a meeting with the Public Service Department of the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu in Saudi Arabia, to discuss the support for the development of Aikido in Saudi Arabia. The Royal Committee expressed the idea and volition to develop Aikido and also to support female practitioners on tatami.

In a special ceremony held in Cheongju, Mr Ban accepted the position to stand as President of the 2019 World Martial Art. The former United Nation Secretary General and current head of the IOC Ethics Commission needs no introduction. The slogan of the 2019 event will be “Beyond the times, bridge the world”. The event is more than just a competition, it is a festival of martial art enthusiasts and athletes combining the various martial arts and culture. The President of the 2019 event will be Mr Chungwon Choue, President of World Taekwondo which also leads the Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation empowering refugees. The President of the Organising Committee and Governor of Cheong Ju, Mr Si-Jong Lee stated that he is “proud to host this event with the full support of the Korean Government and the Olympic Committee of Korea. Many GAISF and IOC recognised combat and martial art sports will participate”. Mr Ban Ki-Moon made an emotional address outlining the unique beauty that each of the participating martial arts have. He also spoke with passion about the many social projects martial arts contribute to society.

“Everyone has a spirit that can be refined, a body that can be trained in some manner, a suitable path to follow.” Morihei Ueshiba For the first time, two wheelchairs using Aikido teachers taught together in Aikido clinics in Europe. Lydia Zijdel, the Chairperson of the Disability Working Group of the IAF, from Netherland, and Molly Hale, member of the same working group, from USA, organised a tour where they taught together in Netherland. This event was organised in cooperation with Aikikai Netherland, under the aegis of IAF. Lydia Zijdel (Sandan) started with Erik Louw Shihan, with the assistance of Wilko Vriesman Shihan in Amsterdam, in March 1983. This was only 6 months after a car accident whereby her cervical spine and spinal cord were damaged. Not only learning on the mat the beauty of Aikido, but also realizing its effect on her rehabilitation to sit, to balance her body and becoming more at ease with the physical abilities she had lost. Since then, Lydia became a driving force in Europe for the inclusion of people with a disability within the Aikido and Martial Arts Community. In 2010 she become the IAF Ambassador for Aikido in the Beijing, Combat Games. […]

Three members of the Alliance of Independent Recognised Members of Sport (AIMS), Federation Internationale de Sambo (FIAS), Federation of International Lacrosse (FILx) and World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO, have been granted provisional recognition during the IOC Executive Board meeting in Tokyo, Japan, on 30 November 2018.   The Global Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF) would like to congratulate the three Federations for this achievement, as well as AIMS for their continued support of its members. Within sport, goals are only achieved with strong effort, and this news proves once again that hard work, resilience, determination and patience pay off.   The three Federations will now act as an example for all of AIMS members. This recognition proves that the cooperation between GAISF, ARISF and AIMS is only growing stronger, thus enhancing the promotion of Olympic values and principles and helping individual Federations develop on and off the field.   First Vice President of GAISF and President of ARISF Raffaele Chiulli, said: “It is fantastic to see these three Federations gain the recognition they worked so hard for in the past years. It highlights to all our members the importance of dedication and cooperation amongst IOC, GAISF, ARISF and […]

4,000 young athletes from around the world came together to participate in the 2018 Youth Olympics celebrating sport, culture, education and above all making friends. A special event was held on the 8th August, demonstrating the Olympic values and the beauty of life. The charity event took place in tandem with the Olympism in Action forum, organized by the International Olympic Committee which brought together Olympic movement stakeholders and civil society to share experiences, inspiring stories, challenging questions, intricate dialogues and above all, to discuss how sports can create positive change around the world. Sport has so many stories, it creates hope and can make a difference whereby at the core Olympic humanity is key. The SportAccord Convention in Bangkok was deemed a big success, with special social initiatives for displaced children and those with different abilities. Two children from Thailand had their dream come true through an incentive program and earnt the chance to be a part of the Youth Olympic experience. In addition to their participation, was the attendance of Thailand’s Wild Boar Team who became one of the world’s most known 2018 football teams. The 12 boys and their coach had been trapped inside a dense cave for […]

For ten year old Krisana Padsawai and Arithat Nilsarika aged eleven, giving their best certainly did not go unnoticed. As participants in one of Thailand’s social projects, they were granted the option to travel to Buenos Aires as a reward incentive for good behaviour and contribution to society. The boys were accompanied by Chewin Waenrungroj who spends his weekends teaching Muaythai and guiding disadvantaged children at one of IFMA’s street projects as a part of the globally successful initiative Sport Is Your Gang. Krisana and Arithat both come from challenged and low socio-economic backgrounds in the city of Bangkok. For these boys, owning a passport with their name, being onboard an aircraft for the first time and being able to meet the elite leaders of the sporting world, witnessing the spirit of the Youth Olympics was more than a dream. For both boys this was to be a life-changing experience. The Olympic journey of the boys did not begin in Buenos Aires, they had been a part of the IOC patronised Bangkok United Through Sports Festival which was a part of the 2018 SportAccord Convention. Here they had the chance for the first time to meet with so many personalities from […]

AIMS is a proud member of the GAISF and SportAccord Family, and the 2018 edition of the IF Forum traditionally held in the Olympic Capital was one to remember under theme “Open Doors and Open Minds – New Tools for IFs”. The session started with an IF Briefing where the 100+ international federations and organisations convened. It started with a minute of silence led by the GAISF Council in loving memory of the late GAISF President Patrick Baumann which made GAISF One voice for all Sport, and a promise by the council to continue his legacy, using the power of sport to build a brighter tomorrow. Raffaelle Chiulli was voted by the Council to be Acting President until the forthcoming General Assembly scheduled for May next year in the Gold Coast, Australia. IFMA General Secretary Stephan Fox will continue in his role as the Vice President of GAISF. The IOC President Dr Thomas Bach was the opening speaker making an emotional tribute to the late President, followed by Francesco Ricci-Bitti, President of ASOIF and acting President Raffaele Chiulli. Dr. Bach stated “This year’s IF Forum is an important follow up to the discussions we had in Buenos Aires. The rapid development […]

The youth of the world are our future in sports and in life. The 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires was a perfect event for the AIMS Council to celebrate the Olympic values and enjoy the immense beauty of sport. The International Olympic Committee invited AIMS to be a part of this exceptional event with the inauguration of the first ever Olympism in Action Forum. The forum was well received bringing together the Olympic movement stakeholders and civil society. AIMS can only praise the initiative and the evident power of sport to create positive change not only on the micro, but also on a macro level. The council meeting was held at the IOC Headquarter, the befitting Hilton Hotel in centre of the city where the council was certainly blessed and honoured to have the inspirational late President of GAISF and SportAccord Mr. Patrick Buamann in attendance. IOC Sport Director, Mr. Kit McConnell joined the meeting and welcomed AIMS on behalf of the IOC. Mr. McConnell’s presence expressed clearly the close relationship between the IOC and AIMS, as well as the importance AIMS has as one of the 5 recognised International Federation umbrella organisations. Mr. Philippe Gueisebuhler, head of GAISF Administration […]

Patrick Baumann will always be remembered for his vision and beliefs in the true power of sport and Olympic humanity. Through his leadership Patrick has united us into one voice. He has respected each and every member of the world sports family, Olympic and Non-Olympic. His energy, his optimism, his intelligence, his down to earth approach, his positivity and his sense of humour touched and inspired us all. Patrick was a man of sport, on and off the field of play, he understood, practised and preached sport for the good of humankind. His integrity in many ways has given us credibility and we can only be grateful for the time, effort and support he has given to sports and the future of our youth regardless to where we are in the sporting tree. Patrick’s legacy will not fade, we must all continue to stand and be the one family he wanted us to be. This is the promise we must make. He was a true friend to all of us and our hearts and condolences are with his wife, two children, his family and to every one who loved and respected him for the great man he has been.

  After a very successful and memorable convention in Bangkok this year in April, the Gold Coast was confirmed to host the world’s largest and most important world sport and business summit. It will be held at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre from May the 5th to May the 10th, 2019. SportAccord President Patrick Baumann revealed that the success of the 2018 Commonwealth Games played a major role in the decision. Queensland Tourism Minister Kate Jones showed her pride and stated that Queensland, Australia’s 6th largest city known for it’s beautiful beaches is ready to welcome and host the world leaders of sport and securing it for the Gold Coast further enhances its reputation as a world class event destination. AIMS would like to congratulate Australia and the Gold Coast and we are all looking forward to embracing all the qualities, opportunities and Australian spirit, the Gold Coast and Queensland has to offer.

15 days of competition and friendship held across Jakarta and Palembang come to a close with an impressive fireworks display, an acrobatic dance performance involving hundreds of drummers, followed by a proud parade of nations. The capacity crowd which had many high-profile personalities including IOC President Dr Thomas Bach, OCA President Sheikh Ahmad Al Sabah, among others. Indonesia’s President Widodo started a series of speeches via Video Link from the Island of Lombok, which was hit by a 6.9 earthquake. He was accompanied by a crowd of survivors, and everyone stood in solidarity with Indonesia. OCA President Sheikh Al Sabah made a heartful speech and declared the Games over and the flag was handed over to the representative of the Chinese Olympic Committee and Hang Zhou Mayor Xu Liyi. A beautiful Chinese dance was performed to seal the hand over. Asia is looking forward the next edition of the Games in Hang Zhou. The rest of the evening was filled with entertainment with many international entertainers. IOC President Dr Bach stated “Congratulations Indonesia, Congratulations Asia, a great Asian Games, a young continent united in its love of sport, showing all its unity in all its diversity.” IFMA would like to […]

It’s just 10 weeks to go til the 3rd Summer Youth Olympic Games starts in Buenos Aires, where more than 3,500 athletes between the ages of 15 and 18 will compete on the world stage. The lighting of the Youth Olympic flame on 24 July at the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, Greece, will mark the start of a 60-day torch tour, culminating in the official Opening Ceremony on 6 October at the Obelisk in Buenos Aires. Tune in for the Buenos Aires 2018 Youth Olympic flame lighting ceremony LIVE!   Click here to watch now

The Olympic run in Thailand was a huge success with over 12,000 participants coming together in the early hours of the 24th of June to do a five or ten kilometre run. IFMA and United Through Sport certainly were there in full force to not only participate but also take the opportunity for important meetings with the President of the NOC of Thailand General Prawit Wongsuwon who is also the Deputy Prime Minister, the Minister of Tourism and Sports Weerasak Kowsurat, the Vice President of the Olympic Committee General Charouk Areeratchakaran and Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul, Thailand IOC Member and President of Thailand Badmintion National Federation. IFMA General Secretary and GAISF Vice President Stephan Fox lead the IFMA team together with Charissa Tynan the Sport Director. AIMS was represented by Executive Secretary Panida Ottesen, United Through Sport Julia Govinden, FAMA was represented by Azadeh Kamyabi, the European Muaythai Federation by Gleb Kalita and the list goes on. IFMA Sport Director Charissa Tynan stated that it was a great opportunity for a great morning workout but also to remind us of the Olympic values. Julia Govinden from United Through Sport stated that this morning brought together not only all of the representatives […]

An important sport forum took place in Romania, organised by the Romanian Sports Institute. The event took place in one of the most historical but also most beautiful places, in Bucharest at the palace of parliament. Many speakers participated in this 3 day forum, including the IOC Member of Romania, President of Romanian NOC, Mr Mihai Covaliu, President of ARISF, Mr. Rafaelle Chiulli, CEO of FISU, President of R Sports to name a few. AIMS President, Stephan Fox, was one of the keynote speakers on the power of sports talking about the Olympic spirit of mutual understanding, the spirit of friendship, solidarity and fair play. The AIMS President highlighted the fact that it’s not about the Olympic or non-Olympic sports but it is about “sports”. Regardless where we are in the recognised sporting pyramid that we must work as one to use the power of sport for good. We must promote sport for social change, work united against any kind of discrimination, gender equality, inclusion, youth development, education and peace building.

After four days of the United Through Sport and Bangkok Sport Festival came to an end, the closing conference organised by the National Olympic Committee of Thailand and AIMS. The Ballroom at the Centara was filled with personalities and keynote speaker was His Royal Highness Prince Faisal, IOC Member and President National Olympic Committee of Jordan. The conference was opened with IOC member for Thailand Khunying Patama Leewadtrakul an Executive Board Member of the National Olympic committee of Thailand who welcomed all guests on their behalf. The Deputy Minister for Tourism and Sport Mr. Ittiphol Khunpluem thanked everyone on behalf of the Royal Thai Government for making the United Though Sport Campaign an important part of the SportAccord Convention leaving a legacy behind for youth in need. Rafaelle Chiulli President of ARISF spoke on behalf of GAISF and over 100 International Federations and organisations, outlining the importance of sport and society as well as the responsibilities of every stakeholder within the Olympic family. President of FISU Oleg Matytsin congratulated each and every person who contributed to UTS and confirmed that FISU not only supports but contributed to the campaign, as we all have an obligation to work towards a better tomorrow. […]

The symbol of AIMS is a handshake of cooperation to ensure worldwide development of each member IF. The SportAccord Convention in Bangkok was the perfect platform to establish new federations before and during the convention. The Bangkok Sport Festival was a major hit and sports like Fistball and Powerlifting, took not only the opportunity to participate but at the same time set the foundation to establish new National Federations. a special meeting took place between AIMS and the Royal Thai Government to brief all interested IFs on the procedure. The meeting was opened by AIMS President, Stephan Fox, thanking the Royal Thai Government on all their initiatives then the deputy governor of the Sport Authority of Thailand went through all the criteria with the interested sports.

The streets of Bangkok came alive to the sights and sounds of sport as the inaugural SportAccord Thailand Sports Festival entertained a packed Centara World Square. It is the first time SportAccord has featured a Festival, taking the delegates onto the streets of Bangkok whilst at the same time engaging the local Thai people. The theme of the Festival was United Through Sport, and its mission is to make a tangible difference to the lives of children in displaced communities. Incorporating 58 different Olympic and non-Olympic federations, the Festival is a celebration of sport as well as culture. At the Opening Ceremony, children from all over Thailand came to perform, including those from displaced families. More than 100 children participated in the hour-long opening ceremony, and performances included songs from a displaced children’s choir, cheerleading and gymnastics squads and a traditional muay buran presentation. The driving force behind the SportAccord Thailand Sports Festival is Alliance of Internationally recognised Member Sports (AIMS) President Stephan Fox, who believes that sport can and should be used to change lives. “Ultimately, my aim is to make this world a better place,” Fox said. “To do this we must all be united in the sports movement to […]

Over 100 recognised international sports organisations and federations will make their way to Bangkok to participate in the 2018 SportAccord convention. One of the activities running simultaneously is the Sports Festival, which will be patronised by the IOC where over 50 sports will participate. AIMS President and GAISF Vice President Stephan Fox stated that one of the most important objectives is to establish new National Federations and sports in Thailand. The International Fistball Association(IFA) under the presidency of Karl Weiß is the first sport which took this opportunity, sending a female coach, Ines Mayer, to coach 2 university teams, Rangsit University and Thamassat Univerity for the next four weeks. Every day the university students have the chance to practice and play at the festival. This has been done in conjunction with the Thai University Sports Board. The president of fistball stated that this is an amazing opportunity for fistball to grow in Southeast Asia and fistball being part of the World Games is one of the most popular sports in the games. The Thai university sports board must be also applauded for the initiative. Fistball coach, Ines Mayer said that this is also an honour for her and building two […]

Alan Govinden – Needs no introduction into the world of film and entertainment. More importantly he also works tirelessly to give his support to The National Autistic Society as well as prestigious UK charities including the NSPCC and the Duke of York Community Initiative. Among the 300 guests at the AMG Charity ball was Her Royal Highness the Countess of Wessex GCVO who herself is a patron of the National Autistic Society and NSPCC. Also in attendance was GAISF (SportAccord) Vice President, Stephan Fox who is worldly renowned for using the power of sport to create a positive change, with his focus towards those most vulnerable, our youth. One of the many charities where Mr Fox gives active support towards children with autism is The Samui Special Needs Foundation in Thailand. The foundation recently received a minibus following a charity run by some Muaythai athletes who wished to give to those less fortunate than themselves. For Mr Fox, supporting this notable cause is a must. An outstanding Film producer and Philanthropist, Alan and his wife Maria have five children, their youngest Jonathan has Autism. Alan’s daughter Julia has recently joined forces with SportAbility and the Festival United Through Sport campaign […]

On the 9th February opening of the Winter Olympics 2018 the eyes of the world turned to Pyeongchang when the President of the Republic of Korea and President of IOC officially opened the events. It was an opening full of excitement and significant emotions. We witnessed the first Olympic victory made before amazing athletes from all around the world, as they entered the world of ice and snow competing for glory and pride not only for their countries, but most importantly for themselves. Victory of Olympic humanity towards peace and hope was given to the world when we saw 166 Korean athletes walking united behind the blue and white flag. This unifying flag bares more than a symbol of two countries that have been in conflict for several decades and has posed a threat for world peace. It was indeed a historical moment for so many reasons. North and South Korea together as one, athletes from two separate conflicting countries walking in side by side infact, hand in hand.We remember over the last months the escalation of words and threat such that a moment like this seemed to be impossible. But through the power of sport and the unifying five […]

GAISF Vice President and AIMS President was invited for a meeting with Thailand’s new Minister of Tourism and Sports, H.E. Mr. Weerasak Kowsurat. Thailand has been awarded the bid to host the 2018 SportAccord Convention, the world’s premier and most exclusive annual event at the service of sport where over 2000 leaders and important personnel in the world of sport come to meet. The AIMS President briefed the Minister on all the developments and that the world of sport is looking forward to visiting the Kingdom and experience the uniqueness of Thai hospitality. The AIMS President also discussed the Sport Festival and other activities and the Minister reiterated that Thailand will go above and beyond to ensure an unforgettable convention and memorable sport festival; and that the local organising committee is looking forward to welcoming the SportAccord Convention team for their upcoming 3rd site visit in Bangkok.

The world of sport is looking forward to the 2018 SportAccord Convention held at the Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention in Bangkok the capitol of the Kingdom of Thailand. Bangkok is always among the world’s top tourist destinations. The city is a true tourist paradise, proved by the growing number of travelers coming each year. Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at Central World is in the very heart of Bangkok’s shopping and business district, with easy access by road and via the BTS Skytrain. This five-star hotel, the flagship of Centara Hotels & Resorts, is therefore ideal for those shopping, sightseeing, or on business. With another 3 5-star hotels within five minutes walking distance, it is the perfect location for the next edition of the convention. There was buzz of excitement when Bangkok was announced as the next host in Aarhus and since then, 2 site visits have taken place, led by SportAccord Convention CEO Nis Hatt and the LOC led by the deputy governor of the Sport Authority of Thailand Col. Ruj. The former Sport Minister of Thailand made an emotional presentation in Lausanne during the recent IF Forum detailing the plans made for the Sport Festival as […]

MADRID – Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS) and Olympic Channel Services (OCS) were recently presented with two ISO certificates at their Madrid, Spain headquarters. The certificates recognise the company’s commitment to the environment, and dedication to promoting the best management of resources.  Manuel Romero, Director of Development and Business at AENOR (Spanish Association for Standardisation and Certification) presented the certificates to Yiannis Exarchos, CEO of OBS and Executive Director of the Olympic Channel, at a ceremony attended by staff representing both organisations. The strategic and systematic approach to energy efficiency within the organisations resulted in obtaining the ISO 50001 certification for Energy Management Systems. OBS and OCS are dedicated to developing and implementing its energy policy as well as managing those aspects of its activities and services that involve energy use. Additionally, by achieving the ISO 14001 for Environmental Management, OBS and OCS showcase its compliance with most environmental requirements and integration of environmental management practices into its operations.  Exarchos said: “Our efforts have been recognised, which represents a milestone for OBS and OCS. Our aim is not only to be leaders, but also to make less of a negative impact on the environment.” Juan Canadell, Head of Human Resources and Crewing added: “These […]

GAISF Vice President, Mr. Stephan Fox, who is also the Chairman of the GAISF Combat Commission, together with the SportAccord Convection CEO, Mr. Nis Hatt and GAISF Head of Administration, Mr. Philippe Gueisbuhler, made a visit to beautiful Chinese Taipei to discuss the World Combat Games 2019.   The visit started in Taipei, where the team was greeted by representative of the government, Mr. Lin Te-Fu Director General sports administration, and representative of National Olympic Committee. Basic discussion took place about terms and conditions before the trip continued to Kaohsiung, where they were greeted by the Deputy Mayor, Ms. Hsu Ming-Chun and Deputy Secretary General Mr. Lin Ying-Pin. Other meetings took place around the city.

The importance of preserving the integrity of the Olympic Movement and promoting Olympic ideals, moral and human values through co-operation and communication between the IOC, governments and the scientific community was a key topic at the VIII International Scientific Congress in St Petersburg from October 12-14. The Congress, ‘Sport, People & Health’, brought together more than 600 representatives of academia, non-governmental organisations and international sports to discuss a range of vital issues including ethical values in world sports today. Over three days experts shared their experience, knowledge and achievements in sport and health. Participants included scientists, presidents of international sports federations, representatives of international sports organisations, outstanding athletes, veterans of sports, and public figures from more than 40 countries. In his welcome address Vasily Shestakov, Chairman of the International Organisation for the Promotion of Science and Sport and President of the International SAMBO Federation (FIAS) stressed that the congress would act as a platform to find a resolution to issues facing the Olympic Movement, which would determine the direction of the work of the congress for the next two years. Special guest Stephan Fox, President of AIMS (Alliance of Independent Recognised Members of Sport) and Vice-President of GAISF, delivered a […]

AIMS President, Stephan Fox, Addressed the higher ranked officials who have contributed to the success of the AIMAG 2017 in Ashgabat. In a special ceremony, the AIMS president thanked the government of Turkmenistan represented by Mr. Komekov Toyly – Chairman of the State Committee for Sports, for staging this amazing event and giving all the athletes from Asia and Oceania the chance to be part of this event. Mr. Fox also thanked the management of the games, led by Matthew Kidson, Director of Sport AIMAG 2017, Mark Mateer, Head of Sport AIMAG 2017 and Competition Manager AIMAG 2017, Scott Novack, for their great contribution for the success of the games.  

Nin, Croatia – From September 20 to 23, 2017, the 2017 edition of the World Championships will be held at Zaton Holiday Resort. The World Championships is the most prestigious event on the World Minigolf Sport Federation (WMF) calendar and will crown the top players and teams in the world. It’s being held at the end of a packed month of competition at Zaton as the World Adventure Golf Masters and World Deaf Champions were held there last week. There are 23 countries represented in this year’s World Championships, with 166 total participants (53 women and 113 men). This year sees three new countries joining the entry list as Brazil, Australia and Canada have sent participants to this major event. An official list of the countries participating can be found below. Participants had official practice days from September 15 up through today to hone their skills on the two courses that will be played during the championships. They will play rounds on both the felt golf and miniaturegolf style courses during the four days of competition. The first three days will feature stroke-play competition as players fight for individual stroke-play glory and the glory of their country and the awarding […]

Over two hours of spectacular dance, music and sporting action athletes from around Asia and Oceania were welcomed to Ashgabat for the Asian Indoor Martial Arts Games. A reception took place beforehand in the Olympique Hotel where excellent food and drinks were served to the delegates and guests of Ashgabat 2017. In the stadium everyone in the audience had a LED device which lit up at certain key points including the Athletes’ Parade – a fantastic sight for all and great excitement for all from all participating sports to experience. Among the highlights acts were the traditional equestrian show, showcasing a central part of Turkmen culture. The cauldron is now lit for the duration of the Games! AIMS President, Stephan Fox said the event was a great tribute to the hard work of the Ashgabat Committee, and he was proud that there are 3 sports from AIMS have the opportunity to be a part of such great event. The Chairman of the 5th AIMAG Executive Committee, Mr Dayanch Gulgeldiyev, called the Opening Ceremony an important event in country’s history. “As well as bring the Opening Ceremony for the biggest edition of the Games to date, it is a proud moment for […]

Signifying a “new chapter in its history”, the cheerful and energetic new logo has been launched by the Global Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF) previously known as SportAccord. The logo, compiled by Barcelona-based designer José Miguel Tortajada Aguilar, is seeking to have a “powerful impact” and to “instantly identify the organisation”. Its most distinguishing feature is a slanted letter “G” to represent a “global” nature. “In a world of instant communication there’s more truth than ever in the saying that ‘you never get a second chance to make a first impression’ and I think this really hits the mark,” said GAISF President Patrick Baumann. “The new brand identity represents the beginning of a new era for GAISF but it is important to remember that the changes in our organisation go beyond the visual to the very heart of our mission. “I believe GAISF today has a clear sense of purpose and is structured, organised and resourced in a way that makes it even more effective as a service provider to members at a time of great change in the world of sport and beyond.” The new logo was commissioned following the decision of members at the General Assembly in […]

A special meeting took place in Bangkok between ARISF President Raffaele Chiulli and AIMS President Stephan Fox. The meeting was important to discuss cooperation in many ways, and also to discuss activities and ideas for the upcoming SportAccord Convention 2018 in Bangkok. A meeting was also arrangement between the ARISF president and the minister of Tourism and Sports, HE Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul.

AIMS President Stephan Fox speaks to InsideTheGames on the importance of the GAISF Member Commission. President Fox  spoke on current members drawing experience from International Federations IFs) which have been recognised by the IOC in the last five years. The Commission’s first meeting was attended by 73 delegates from 48 different IFs in Lausanne last month. Mr. Fox hailed the support given by GAISF President Patrick Baumann before stressing what needs to be done to aid its members. Mr. Fox stated, “Patrick is very much behind this and he is doing an amazing job,” The Commission has been established and the first meeting was help in June, where clear missions and decisions were made, currently work is going into finalizing the criteria to see how they can help IFs reach Observer Status. The Member Commission will support IFs in confronting where the sports themselves stand in terms of development and on what else needs to be improved. Mr. Fox stated, Everyone here has the Olympic dream. But, in my opinion, it is not the destination but the journey which is important. It is about the things you improve in your sport like your ethics and anti-doping policies and so on. For the full article click here.

AIMS invited special guests for a Welcome Breakfast meeting to honour the 2017 World Games and all partner organisations within the Olympic Movement. AIMS President Stephan Fox welcomed all the guests in the relaxed atmosphere, congratulating IWGA President and IOC Member José Perurena for the success of the 2017 World Games, which has truly put the atheltes at the heart. President Fox stressed on the unique power of sport has to make a positive contribution in society and he welcomed the representatives of the atheltes there, thanking them and also showcasing the importance of respect for one another. Mr. Fox and the AIMS Council members present, handed special plaques of appreciation, starting with the former IWGA president, Ron Froelich, who has set the foundation for these games and to the current IWGA president, Mr. Perurena for his leadership. Mr. Fox thanked the IWGA team led by the CEO Joachim Gossow and General Manager, Chantal Boehi for their hard work behind the scenes, especially in the name of all the participating atheltes. Mr. Fox also presented a plaque to the IOC representative Jenny Mann, thanking Ms. Mann and the IOC for all their support and guidance and outlined again, the important cooperation between […]