Sporting for All – Bringing sports to everyone

GAISF President Raffaele Chiulli and GAISF Vice President Stefan Fox visited the Star Judo Club in Naples last week to meet its founder Gianni Maddaloni, a man who credits judo with keeping him on the right path and out of trouble. And now Maddaloni is committed to doing the same for the young people in his community. As part of the International Judo Federation’s (IJF) ‘Judo for the World’ initiative, the International Federation commissioned a series of videos which showcase individuals who have dedicated their time to changing the lives of others in their community through judo. Based in Scampia, near Naples, one of the most dangerous suburbs in Italy, Maddaloni opened the Star Judo Club in 1992 as a place to care of and inspire local people. After his son Giuseppe won the gold medal at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, Maddaloni was able to develop his idea. His mission was to give the community the opportunity to practice a sport, something they had not had beforehand. Many of the young people visiting his gym have no family support network and come from all walks of life. “Scampia was full of criminals, my own brother died in a prison […]

The second round of the Bangkok Urban Tournament took place last weekend with youth teams meeting again to compete in futsal, 3X3 basketball, sepak takraw, badminton and muaythai. The Bangkok Urban Youth Tournament is the continuation of the legacy left in the wake of the SportAccord Convention 2018 in Bangkok where charity, social and sports organisations such as United Through Sports, EXtreme Sports and Right To Play united to launch a multi-sports event to bring kids from different socio-economic backgrounds on to a shared field of play. All hands were on deck with officials and coaches from the Badminton Association of Thailand, International Federation of Muaythai Amateur, Sepak Takraw Association of Thailand, Thailand Basketball Association, Thailand Department of Physical Education and the Amateur Muaythai Association of Thailand volunteering their time to provide the various sports for the youths to partake. IFMA President Dr Sakchye Tapsuwan was representing Thailand, Khun Paisan Rangsikitpho from the Badminton Association of Thailand represented the Chair of the event Khun Ying Patama, Vice President of the World Badminton Federation and IOC Member. GAISF was represented by Vice President Stephan Fox and Right To Play by Asia Director Niamh De Loughry. One of the highlights of the events was the fact that a team […]

The 8th General Secretary of the United Nations was the keynote speaker at the 2019 AIMS General Assembly. Mr. Ban Ki-moon earned the highest respect for his work for peace, justice and human rights and he also chairs the IOC Ethical Commission. Mr. Ban Ki-moon spoke about the unifying power of sport. He spoke about the ability to unite, inclusivity, equality and the power of sport towards social change. He gave grace to the AIMS family for their initiative, United Through Sports, and this year’s United Through Sports Youth Festival as part of the Sport Accord Convention on the Gold Coast. The initiative which started in Bangkok at the convention is a perfect example of what can be accomplished by working together, sharing the same vision for the future and the youth of the world. The initiative, which again is patronized by the IOC, outlines the Olympic values and Olympic humanity and Mr. Ban Ki-moon thanked all the AIMS members council and the UTS team under the leadership of President Stephan Fox and he encouraged everyone to continue this inspiring initiative.

The Sports Ministry of Kazakhstan invited the GAISF leadership to the Capital City, Nursultan,  which has been awarded the 2021 World Combat games. The two day visit included an important conference in which over 500 delegates of various combat sports and martial arts came together for the forum. The former Prime Minister and Chairman of the National Security Committee Karim Massimov who is also the President of the Kazakhstan Martial Art Federation, did a welcome speech to the President of GAISF and SportAccord , Raffaele Chiulli, GAISF Vice President, Stephan Fox and the Director of GAISF, Philippe Gueisbuhler. Mr. Massimov outlined the unique power of sport, especially martial arts and the importance of GAISF as the umbrella body for recognized international sports federations. Many other important personalities were included: Mr. Muhamediuly Arystanbek, Minister of Culture and Sports, Mr. Dauren Abayev, Minister of Information and Communications, Mr. Saken Mussaibekov, Kazakhstan NOC Secretary General and Mr. Anuar Sadykulov, Head of the State of Security Service. President Mr.  Chiulli thanked on behalf of GAISF for the invitation, highlighting again, the importance of Kazakhstan in the world of sport and the importance Kazakhstan gives to sport and active society. Stephan Fox, the Chair of the Multi-sport Games […]

As done in previous years, at the start of the SportAccord Convention, the 60 members of the ARISF & AIMS family came together for a night between friends. Many VIP delegates from the IOC, Queensland Government joined the surprise party including the 8th Secretary General of the United Nations, H.E. Mr Ban Ki Moon. Three buses and many VIP cars whisked the delegates off to the surprise venue the Warner Bros. Movie World Theme Park. Delegates were welcomed by none other than Ms Marilyn Monroe at the Fountain of Fame after walking the red carpet. GAISF/SportAccord and ARISF President Raffaele Chiulli and AIMS President Stephan Fox made their welcome speech and everyone toasted to sport and friendship. The function kicked into high gear as the DC Roller Coaster opened up for the private function where all delegates including Mr Ban Ki Moon took a ride (or two!) on the thrilling ride. After the adrenaline rush, the guests were led to the Star Pavillion through a vibrant street setting and a live performance by Ms Monroe. The lights went out and Bat Man arrived on his Bat Mobile to the delight of all the young-hearted delegates experiencing the first welcome dinner of […]

A special ceremony took place in the presence of the IOC President Thomas Bach, HRH Prince Faisal, GAISF & SportAccord President Raffaele Chiulli, WADA President Sir Craig Reedie and many others. The 8th Secretary General of the United Nations H.E. Ban Ki Moon awarded the AIMS President, Stephan Fox, the position of Co-Chairman of the 2019 Chungju World Martial Arts Masterships of which Mr Ban Ki Moon is Honorary President. The 8th UN Secretary General whom is also Chairman of the IOC Ethics Commission stated that the AIMS President is a great advocate to the Olympic and Martial Arts values and Olympic humanity.

Ju-jitsu has a huge popularity in the world and is very active in the Kingdom itself. IJJF, the world governing body for Ju-jitsu is recognized by GAISF and AIMS. The President of IJJF, Khun Chuchart, is also the Vice President of AIMS. IJJF is included in many multi-sport games. The Thailand Ju-jitsu Federation under the presidency of Khun Chuchart, staged the National Championship and invited AIMS President as the guest of honor. President, Stephan Fox, congratulated the Thailand Ju-jitsu Federation on all their efforts and having over 700 junior athletes participating at the National Championships speaks for itself. Congratulations to the Ju-jitsu Thailand Federation!  

In an often divided world, sport is an important connection that unites people across and within societies promoting unity in diversity. There are countless examples of the unifying strength of sport. The Olympic value focuses on friendship, respect and excellence combined with the paralympic values of determination, inspiration, courage and equality. The objective of the Olympic movement is to contribute in building a more peaceful and better world by educating youth through sport and practise without discrimination of any kind. Pierre de Coubertin founder of the modern Olympic movement believed that sport contributed to the harmonious and well-balanced development of the body, personality and the mind. The interaction between sport, education and culture is encouraged by the Olympic movement to promote Olympism, Olympic ideals, reinforce cooperation with educational bodies and with projects focused on the youth. Alliances are crucial, and this is what was established at the 2018 SportAccord Convention in Bangkok with the formation of United Through Sports (UTS) and the many supporters. The IOC, AIMS, GAISF, RTP, UNESCO, UN Women, Generation for Peace, Peace and Sport, WADA and Royal Thai Government were amongst those endorsing the initiative. One of the key persons behind UTS is GAISF Vice President […]

Bankgkok, Thailand – The SportAccord Convention 2018 in Bangkok has been remembered as one of the most outstanding, particularly with the initiative United Through Sports which saw events leading up to the convention and building up to the Bangkok Sports Festival with over 60 sports participating. History was made when the youth team of displaced and disadvantaged children from the Mae La Camp participated in the event. The festival opened with a conference joined by many personalities including IOC President Dr Thomas Bach. The four-day event came to an inspiring close with the conference “Leaving a Legacy” behind with key-note speaker His Royal Highness Prince Faisal. The initiative spear-headed by AIMS under the full patronage of the IOC, GAISF and SportAccord raised donations throughout the week to leave something behind for children in need. As the SportAccord convention prepares for the Gold Coast Australia, Bangkok holds activities and where donations have been made. United Through Sports, Right To Play and IFMA teamed up to distribute donations form SportAccord Convention to the Tak Province Mae La camp in December. Last Saturday saw the SportAccord Managing Director Nis Hatt travel to Bangkok to participate in the extension of the Sport Is Your […]

Over 30 years ago, countless Rohinga families fled from violent human rights abuse and conflict within Myanmar (Burma) and have been “temporarily” living in nine refugee camps within the Tak Province along the western border of Thailand. With over 120,000 refugees in this region, they contribute to the fastest growing refugee crisis in the world. Rohinga families currently have no alternative than to live in cramped shacks in over-crowded make-shift communities. Regular risk of fires sweeping through these camps means that each house is adorned with rows of small plastic bags above their entrances filled with water or sand. These families live where they can, with little access to medical care, they are dependent on donations. Many have been born into the camps never stepping foot outside of the gated and guarded compounds. Dusty air, poor nutrition and hygiene is the reality for these families. There is no alternative but to live off donated rations. Here they eat what is available and what they are given. Here there is no privacy, almost no personal space and a lack of basic amenities. Children marry young, create their own families, receive basic education provided by elected teachers within the camps. With limited […]

The AIMS family would like to wish everyone happy holidays and a great start to the New Year.    

The 2018 general assembly of the World Masterships was held in Korea under the chairmanship of the esteemed governor of Cheoungju province, Governor Si Jong Lee. Representatives from around the world traveled to Cheoungju to participate in the forum which had many important speakers. The afternoon meeting was on the organisation of the upcoming 2019 Games, under the honourary president of former UN General Secretary, Ban Ki Moon, and the President for 2019 of the World Taekwando Federation, Dr. Chungwon Choue. The governor opened the assembly followed by GIASF Vice President, Mr. Stephan Fox, honouring the late President Patrick Baumann with a minute of silence. Many AIMS member federations participated in that meeting including AIMS Vice President and President of Ju Jitsu, Mr. Panagiotis Theorodopoulus.

The Annual Aikido Seminar in Netherlands, that is conducted by female instructors, run its course full well. Women and also men gathered to practice together on tatami. The instructors that lead the course were Jeanette Tanis, Trudeke Sterringa, Satomi Ishikawa and Caroline Bied-Charreton, all four of them from Netherland, and also Laura Copello from Argentina. With over 45 years of Aikido experience, Laura brought a lot of knowledge to the seminar, showed many steady positions and effective movements. Despite the different backgrounds, all the teachers looked for common frame. The participants worked on Aikido basics such as taking low stands, making correct tai sabaki, opening the chest and connecting to others with the hara. The seminar took place on the 28th of October, in Amsterdam. It was a seminar of meeting and sharing with a good atmosphere. Article from : http://www.aikido-international.org

LAUSANNE, Switzerland – SportAccord is delighted to announce Beijing, capital of the People’s Republic of China, as Host City for the 18th edition of SportAccord which is set to take place from 19 – 24 April 2020. One of the six ancient cities in China, Beijing is the nation’s economic, political and cultural centre. It serves as the main transportation hub for Northern China with frequent flights and an excellent infrastructure, making it easy for delegates to reach Beijing. Mr. Chen Jining, Mayor of Beijing and Executive President of Beijing Organizing Committee for the 2022 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, said: “Hosting the 2020 SportAccord Convention will promote the sports development in Beijing and China at large, further Beijing’s exchanges and cooperation with the international sports community, boost the preparations for the 2022 Winter Olympics and Paralympics, and contribute to the development of world sports.” “SportAccord shows its trust for my city by hosting 2020 SportAccord Convention in Beijing. We will fully explore the strengths of the city and deepen cooperation with the SportAccord and International Sports Federations to ensure the Convention is a fruitful event.” With many high-profile events on the horizon such as the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup and […]

The AIMS family come together in Lausanne to honour the late former President of GAISF, Patrick Baumann. Patrick died in the evening of October 13, following a heart attack while attending the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires. Only 2 days before, he was at the AIMS council meeting to inspire the AIMS family. He was an inspirational leader whose vision, enthusiasm, personality, transformed GAISF following his election to the Presidency in 2016. His life was dedicated to sport and he was one of the leading administrators of his generation. The AIMS family come together to mourn but also to celebrate Patrick’s life and the best way to remember him is to continue his legacy.

A dream came true for Thailand’s Krisana Padsawa (10) and Arithat Nilsarika (11). Sport Is Your Gang (SIYG) is an initiative founded by the International Federation Muaythai Amateur many years ago. The youth-based initiative functions in corporation with many key humanitarian organisations including Peace and Sport, Generation for Peace and UNESCO. The objective of SIYG is to support and empower youth from challenging backgrounds and encourage them to participate in exercise and dialogue exchange programs towards a healthier and active lifestyle. SIYG focuses on communities facing economic hardship, increased immigrant populations in urban environments and includes victims of crime and bullying. Many youths find themselves without real opportunities for self-advancement and consequently many of these youths find belonging in street gangs where education suffers through truancy and lack of a stable support system. IFMA advocates the potential of sport understanding how importance of cultivating self-respect and self-belief, and for these children to find a safe and trusted environment amidst adversity. The SIYG project has been successfully integrated in many IFMA National Federations around the world and has gained the highest respect from the sports community. In 2014, they were awarded the SportAccord “Spirit of Sport Award” for their contribution towards […]

Uruguay gathered a lot of active people yesterday, in Canelones, for the Nanairo Ekiden event. The Aikido Federation of Uruguay, member of IAF, joined the activities of the Nanairo Ekiden organized by Red Internacional Basquetbol Educativo, the Juan Salvador Gaviota School and the University of Tsukuba, on the 7th of October 2018, in Canelones, Uruguay. “It was a pleasant surprise to see that even though there were a lot of loud expressing spectators, during the Aikido demonstration everybody turned quiet and paid attention to what was happening on the tatami.” said Lilamani de Soysa, from the University of Tsukuba, present at the event. The Aikido demonstration was one of the featured sports together with basketball, baskin (adapted basketball), wheelchair basketball and zumba dancing, performed by the Uruguayan Down Syndrome Federation. His Excellency, the Japanese Ambassador Tatsuhiro Shindo, together with wife, watched the demonstration and the activities.     The Aikido demonstration, with the participation of Makoto Kikugawa Sensei, JICA volunteer in Uruguay, was added value to this inclusive educational event. The Nanairo Ekiden is based on the traditional Japanese Ekiden race together with educational activities based on Olympic and Paralympic values: friendship, respect, excellence, determination, inspiration, courage and equality. It is […]

Kosice will be the heart city of the 24-hour Aikido Marathon this year. 14 instructors from 7 countries will conduct the trainings of this event, during the 6 th -7 th of October 2018. At least a hundred people are expected to be on the tatami on the Saturday of October 6 and train continuously for 24 hours. The marathon starts at 11 a.m. and it is planned to have a break every 45 minutes so that the aikidoka would be able to go through the entire series of trainings. The panel of instructors emphasizes teachers from Slovakia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Sweden, Belgium, Germany and Ukraine. They are ready to train when they don’t teach so that they keep the motion of the marathon: Dusan Dreisig, Iveta Sudorova, Panni Becsagh, Norbert Hochstrsser, Helena Reguli, Zdenko Reguli, Martin Svihla, Vanda Svihlova, Andreas Falk, Sylvia Mucke, Alain Dujardin, Olga Stegura, Mikhail Rogach, Zuzana Gajdosova. Some may wonder how this could be possible, but the answer has multiple aspects such as enthusiasm of meeting friends, joy of training with passionate people or even establishing new limits of mind and physical resistance. The marathon is open to all aikidoka, regardless of rank or experience. […]

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Nat Indrapana, IOC Member in Thailand, at the age of 80. With a strong academic background, Nat Indrapana was a key figure in the development of sport in Thailand and Asia, holding numerous positions within sports organisations in his country and continent. He was Deputy Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee of Thailand; Chairman of the Sports Development and Improvement Committee at the Southeast Asian Federation; President of the Asian Trap and Skeet Shooting Federation; a Council member of the Asian Games Federation and of the Olympic Council of Asia; and a member of the University Sports Board of Thailand. IOC President Thomas Bach said: “With the death of Nat Indrapana, the IOC loses a true gentleman of sport. With his outstanding gentleness he made many friends around the world, including me. Over the years of his membership, Nat contributed greatly to the Olympic Movement and the protection of its values. For this, he mobilised all his personal forces to serve the IOC even while fighting his serious disease. We will all miss him greatly.” Indrapana entered the IOC in 1990 and had more recently […]

GAISF has officially launched the .sport extension programme, offering its members the opportunity to secure their own .sport domain portfolio. As digital technology continues to evolve, International Federations (IFs) with a recognised and protected domain will ensure they are positioned as the global leader in their sport. Owning a .sport domain from GAISF helps by instantly identifying an organisation or individual as a recognised, credible and trusted member of the global sports family. Each IF will acquire a portfolio that can include a number of domains, providing information for fans in more than 30 different languages. For every domain that isn’t actively managed by a Member, GAISF creates pages which includes a visual of the IF or event and a redirection to the Member’s main website, ensuring that each IF has a vast digital landscape but that traffic to its active sites are never lost. Having an identifiable domain such as .sport gives all federations that choose to opt in to the initiative an unmistakable association to the sport ecosystem, as well as the opportunity to adopt a fresh and straightforward digital image that is easy discoverable by fans of the sport. Governing bodies, athletes, clubs, event organisers, media/publishers, as […]

The SportAccord Convention 2018 edition took a fresh direction with the incorporation of activities that included a United Through Sports Art workshop led by Valentina Jarrett. With her warm spirit, the engaging Mrs. Jarrett volunteered to teach and inspire a group of displaced children from the Tak province (Mae la, Umpiem and Nu Po camps) to create art depicting sports using recycled materials to create beautiful pieces.   Aside from being a part of the United Through Sports opening ceremony, the displaced youth participated in the Bangkok Sports Festival including; 3×3 basketball, street football and sepaktakraw. They also enjoyed other activities and workshops with Peace and Sport Olympic champion medal winner Pascal Gentil, French football legend Christian Karembeu and NBA basketball superstar Bismack Biyombo. During the unique afternoon event, the children expressed their freedom of creativity by using the logos of the 64 International Federations and the result was contemporary art illustrating sports of the participating IF’s. Assisting the afternoon events were translators from the organization Right To Play where the atmosphere was one of laughter, education about the principles of art and an exchange of ideas. The workshop came to a close over snacks and group photographs, with appreciation and thanks given […]

ARISF believes strongly in the concept of a unified front to support the healthy development of the sport on all levels. Over the last few years IFMA, ARISF International Federation Member, has initiated rigorous efforts to unify all Muaythai groups within the member countries. The unification processes have been accomplished in cooperation with the international sport governing bodies and national Olympic committees, in line with the interests of ARISF International Federations such as IFMA. Italy has become the latest member to sign this important MOU unifying the two national Muaythai federations in cooperation with the National Olympic Committee, the CONI. The signing ceremony took place in Rome in presence of the ARISF President Raffaele Chiulli, IFMA General Secretary Stephan Fox, CONI representative Anna Riccardi, FIKBMS President Donato Milano, FIMT President Mauro Bassetti and IFMA Executive Board Member Davide Carlot. ARISF President Raffaele Chiulli stated: “IFMA is an important member in the IOC recognised sporting family and I applaud IFMA’s initiatives to work for the overall sport development in each country”. “This cooperation was very important and its significance was truly highlighted by the presence of both the ARISF President and CONI representative at the signing ceremony” IFMA General Secretary Stephan […]

The 15 IOC and or GAISF recognised Combat Sports met in Bangkok under the leadership of chairman Stephan Fox who is also GAISF Vice-President. The meeting was shared by IOC Executive Member, Nenad Lalovic, who is also the President of United World Wrestling. Many topics were discussed in regards to establishing a working group towards the World Combat Games. Also discussions took place in order to do a martial arts and combat forum. Mr Stanislas Frossard, EPAS Executive Secretary, did an extensive presentation on behalf of the European Council. The GAISF combat commission has become a strong group within the world recognised family and 6 out of the 15 members will be part of the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

The 17th of April was a historical day in the world of sport with the official launch of the United Through Sport (UTS) initiative during the SportAccord Convention 2018 held in Bangkok. The Bangkok Sport Festival and UTS initiative was under the full patronage of the IOC and to show his support, IOC President Dr.Thomas Bach was keynote speaker at the opening conference of the festival. The President made a heartfelt speech congratulating the GAISF Vice President Mr Stephan Fox for his initiative and thanks was also given to United Through Sport CEO Mrs. Julia Govinden. The President outlined the goal of the Olympic movement, with emphasis on the Olympic spirit which requires mutual understanding with a spirit of friendship, solidarity and fair play. He highlighted the importance of the opening ceremony in PyeongChang with the unified Korean team reminding us that sport does not build walls, today more than ever we need the unifying power of sport. There were many welcoming speakers, including the GAISF President Patrick Baumann, President of ASOIF Francesco Ricci-Bitti and President of WADA Sir Craig Reedie. The event was opened by the Minister of Tourism and Sport his excellency Weerasak Kowsurat with many other speakers; […]

Over 100 representatives of local and international press turned up at the official prelaunch held at the Arnoma Hotel Ballroom. The event opened with a powerful video showcasing the 92 recognised sports grouped together under the GAISF umbrella. Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul opened the press conference showing her pride as a Thai and IOC member that the SportAccord convention has been awarded to Thailand and the unique opportunity for Thailand to present itself to the world. It furthermore outlines Thailand as a sporting hub in the South East Asian region. As an IOC member Khunying also showed her pride that the IOC has granted patronage to the festival and she congratulated all organisations and individuals who have joined hands in the United Through Sport Campaign. Khunying thanked especially Stephan Fox the Vice President of GAISF and AIMS President for his vision in the unique power of sport. Colonel Ruj Sangudom Deputy Governor of the Sport Authority of Thailand stated that Thailand looks forward to welcoming the leading personalities to Bangkok includingg the IOC President and preparations are well on the way both at the convention to be held at the Centara Centre and the festival which will be held outside of the […]

WMF is now delighted and excited to be able to inform that we have signed the contract for WC 2019 with the local organizer and China Minigolf Sport Federation (CMF). This means that the Minigolf World Championships will take place for the first time ever outside Europe in 2019. This is a consequent step in the development of WMF to make the game more global. The negotiation process lasted about six months from the day when CMF President Xiaolong He announced that they have found an investor/organizer, who wants to bring the championships to China. The investor / organizer is a real estate company who is building a new hotel and recreational area in Zhouzhuang, the ancient water town of China. This real estate company is a subsidiary of high tech public company Invengo Information Technology Co. Ltd. who plans to bring more intelligent technologies to the minigolf course. They are also the Intelligent Campus Solution provider of Shanghai Disney Park. The negotiations were very smooth and we could reach a result with which all sides are satisfied. Also the regional government is supporting the championships, which is essential in China for the success of such an event. This contract […]

LAUSANNE, Switzerland – This year’s CityAccord conference taking place on Tuesday 17 April 2018 at SportAccord in Bangkok will focus on ‘Making Relationships a Priority’. During the session ‘Between Events’, delegates who register for SportAccord will hear about ground-breaking initiatives from UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) and UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), and the tremendous impact these initiatives are having at both governmental and grassroots levels. With non-communicable diseases (NCDs) now accounting for the majority of health-related deaths in Asia and the Pacific, especially among youth[1], interventions to increase or improve the quality of spaces in urban planning, can have a transformative effect on the lives of individuals and the community. Caroline Baxter Tresise, International Consultant for Sport, Social and Human Sciences Sector, UNESCO Paris, will reveal how they are working with IFMA (International Federation of Muaythai Amateur) in Thailand as part of the initiatives, Sport is Your Gang and The New Urban Agenda. Together, these programmes are helping to combat the rise of NCDs as a result of the increase in dedicated urban green public spaces for sport and physical activity such as Muaythai. “Parks and celebrated public spaces for sport are rapidly disappearing across the world in favour of shopping malls and […]

The 3rd site visit took place between the LOC of the Royal Thai Government and lead by Lt. Co. Ruj Saeng-Udom, Deputy Governor of SAT and Nis Hatt, CEO of SportAccord Convention. Over 70 people from various departments participated in this important meeting in which all departments put their progress reports forward. GAISF Vice President, Stephan Fox, also made a welcome speech, again thanking the Royal Thai Government for bringing the convention to Bangkok and that the over 100 recognised sports and organisations are looking forward to the convention from 15 – 10 April 2018. There is a great progress on all aspects of the convention including the Sport Festival which is coming together very nicely and is drawing much interests across all sports. The Festival will be a great message to show the power of youth and sport for a brighter future for all.  

PRESS RELEASE 22 December 2017 ISTAF CONGRESS 2017 General Charouck Arirachakaran, President of Takraw Association of Thailand (TAT) was re-elected unopposed as President, International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) for a 4 years term during the International Sepaktakraw Federation’s Congress. A total of 50 delegates from 17 countries attended the Congress held at Alexander Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand. Details of the council members who were elected and appointed willserve the next term from 2018-2021 (4 years term) are as follows: President 1 Gen. Charouck Arirachakaran – Thailand Deputy President 1 Boonchai Lorhpipat – Thailand Deputy President 2 Sohrab Azad Khan Kandi – Iran Vice President 1 S.R. Premraj – India, 2 Lee Qoea Gyu – Korea, 3 Muhammad Fariq Abdul Halim – Singapore, 4 Meas Sarin – Cambodia, 5 Karen Tanchanco-Caballero – Philippines, 6 Shunichi Takeshita – Japan, 7 Yeh Chen Yen – Chinese Taipei, 8 Dhurba Bahadur Gurung – Nepal Secretary General Abdul Halim Bin Kader, BBM – Singapore Deputy Secretary General Muhammad Taufiq – Singapore Asst. Secretary General Yogender Singh Dahiya – India Treasurer Prof. Chalerm Chaiwatcharaporn – Thailand Council Members 1 Abdul Sarip Naharawi – Singapore, 2 Ali Fouladi Rad – Iran, 3 Kazi Rajib Ahmed Chapol – Bangladesh, 4 […]

MADRID – 14 December 2017 – Following the recent celebration of its one-year anniversary, the Olympic Channel today announced that it has reached cooperation agreements with the Alliance of Independent Recognised Members of Sport (AIMS), and the international governing bodies for fistball, muaythai, polo, powerlifting and tug of war to collaborate on content for the multi-platform global media destination. The agreements with AIMS, International Fistball Association (IFA), International Federation of Muaythai Amateur (IFMA), Federation of International Polo (FIP), International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) and Tug of War International Federation (TWIF) bring the number of partners who have announced similar agreements with the Olympic Channel to 63. Federation partners include international sports federations (IFs), recognised federations and organisations, multi-sport organisers and non-recognised federations. “We are excited to welcome these organisations to the Olympic Channel’s robust family of federation partners,” said Mark Parkman, general manager of the IOC’s global Olympic Channel. “As we look ahead to 2018, we are in a great position to promote all sports and athletes within the Olympic Movement, and help to distribute their content and grow their audiences worldwide.” AIMS President Stephan Fox expressed his joy and said, “this is an important step for AIMS and the 21 […]

An official signing took place with representatives of the Chinese Taipei government and National Olympic Committee to host the 2019 World Combat Games. The contract was signed by representatives of the Chinese Taipei government, Director General of Sports Administration, Ministry of Education Lin Te-Fu and Director of International and Cross-Strait Sports Division Maggie Hsu.   The GAISF Council approved the MOU which was then followed by the signing. GAISF President, Mr. Patrick Baumann counter signed together with GAISF Vice President and Chairman of the GAISF Combat Commission, Mr. Stephan Fox.   The announcement was made at the GAISF briefing in front of the 92 GAISF member federations. The combat meeting has already been scheduled.      

LAUSANNE, 8 November 2017- GAISF and International Olympic Committee (IOC) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), underscoring the unity of vision and purpose between the two organisations and paving the way to a continuing close and fruitful relationship, which will benefit all of sport’s stakeholders. The MoU was signed by IOC President Thomas Bach and GAISF President Patrick Baumann, ahead of the official opening of the International Federations Forum in the Olympic Capital Lausanne. The signing marks a new era in the ever-closer relationship between GAISF and the IOC, and the closure of a transition period which has seen Sportaccord re-name as GAISF, as well as the re-evaluation and redefinition of its role, aims and objectives. The relationship between GAISF and the IOC is increasingly important in a changing international sports landscape and emphasises the IOC’s continued commitment to the International Federation (IF) Family, which was highlighted in Olympic Agenda 2020. This gave IFs a greater responsibility in key areas including nomination of new sports, the Olympic Games bidding process and ensured a voice at the top table across the Olympic Movement. The MoU covers membership criteria, services to members and multi-sport games, and is designed to serve as […]

LAUSANNE. 2nd October 2017 – The Global Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF) today announced the first International Federations to achieve Observer Status. They are: World Armwrestling Federation (WAF) World Dodgeball Association (WDA) Federation for International FootGolf (FIFG) International Union of Kettlebell Lifting (IUKL) International Federation of (Match)Poker (IFP) International Pole Sports Federation (IPSF) International Table Soccer Federation (ITSF) Details on these Federations can be found here. The decision to introduce Observer Status for aspirant members was unanimously agreed by delegates at the GAISF General Assembly in Aarhus, Denmark, earlier this year. Since then the GAISF Membership Commission Chaired by Antonio Espinos along with Vice Presidents Dr Raffaele Chiulli (President of ARISF) and Stephan Fox (President of AIMS) have worked to define eligibility criteria and application procedures which were shared with aspirant Federations in Lausanne in May. Observer Status allows new, young International Federations to take advantage of the GAISF network to grow and develop. They can take part in the annual IF Forum and attend the General Assembly, but have no right to vote. The Observer status has been designed as a first step in a clear pathway towards full GAISF membership. Observers will be accompanied by GAISF in their development […]

After the successful AIMS breakfast get together in Wroclaw, Poland. AIMS President, Stephan Fox, invited the world of sport to a gathering during the Asian Indoor & Martial Arts Games 2017 in Ashgabat. AIMS President welcomed everyone on behalf of AIMS and the 21 sports but also in his capacity as the General Secretary of IFMA (Muaythai). President Fox made a heartfelt speech on using the unique power of sports to contribute to the society in many positive ways and he thanked some of the guests who have been a great contributor to sports over the years. The first appreciation was given to Mr. Wei Jizhong, the life-time honorary president of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) who have contributed his life to sports, including as a former president of International Volleyball federation. The second presentation as made to Mr. Pere Miro, IOC Deputy General Director also heading the IOC Director for NOC Relations and Olympic Solidarity, which continues to make such a positive impact in the Olympic movement. The 3rd presentation was made to the President of the International Weightlifting Federation and a member of the International Olympic Committee, who has supported sports for so many years and is […]

AIMAG 2017 started with a spectacular opening and now it is time for the athletes to shine. 3 AIMS members are part of the game, Ju-Jitsu, Kickboxing and Sambo. Ju-Jitsu was the first to start with the stadium packed to the last seats and outstanding performances by the athletes. Ju-Jitsu President, Pannagiotis Theodoropoulus, who is also AIMS Vice President, congratulated Turkmenistan and the OCA on this outstanding event and also welcomed the AIMS President, Stephan Fox, at the finals.

Nin, Croatia – The World Adventure Golf Masters (WAGM) and World Deaf Minigolf Championship (WDMC) were held on September 11 and 12, 2017 at Zaton Holiday Resort.  Both of these events are sponsored by the World Minigolf Sport Federation (WMF) and feature some of the best international competitors in their respective divisions on both the minigolf open standard (MOS) and miniaturegolf style courses.  There was a total of 104 participants from 18 countries in the WAGM and 32 players from 5 countries in the WDC. The first day of the events was delayed by heavy rains and did not start until 18:30 local time, more than 10 hours after the scheduled starting time. As a result, both tournaments were cut short to fit in the allotted time but that made for an even more exciting finish as the scores were very close across many of the divisions.  The rain also made for some interesting course conditions with damp turf, which was a marked contrast to the practice conditions the teams saw earlier in the week. Tournament Director Pasi Aho had this to say about the competitions, “We have seen two days of fantastic minigolf in partly extreme conditions. The players […]

The 2017 Universiade was officially declared open by Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing welcoming athletes from around the world. The spectacular ceremony featured 3 different cultural performances presenting the story of Chinese Taipei to the world. Stunning digital and human performances received standing ovations and then when over 4,000 athletes marched into the arena with the final team Chinese Taipei, the stadium erupted. Chinese Taipei baseball hero Chin Feng Chen hit the fireball from around 50 metres lighting up the cauldron and sending a firework into the stadium and around Taipei. FISU president Oleg Matytsin delivered a heartfelt speech addressing the youth as tomorrow’s leaders and our future. IOC president Dr. Thomas Bach made a video address to all the athletes sharing his pride back in the days when he was a proud participant in the Universiade. AIMS congratulates FISU on an outstanding opening and wishes all the participants lifelong memories at the 29th Summer Universiade !

Askim, Sweden – The Minigolf Open Youth European Championships were held from August 2 -5, 2017 on the concrete and miniaturegolf courses in Askimsbadet, Askim. In total, 66 players (48 male and 18 female) represented 12 different countries in the individual play. There were 5 full country teams in the male division and 4 teams in the female division that competed for the team title. The schedule was packed for the tournament as 8 rounds over the first two days comprised the team competition while and additional 4 rounds were played to round out the individual stroke-play competition at 12 rounds. The last day of play was for the match-play competition, which is played by the top tier players from the stroke play. The story of the tournament was the weather, as rains and bad weather interrupted play and caused from some adjustment of the round schedule. However, that didn’t seem to phase the home team during the team competition as the Swedish male and female teams struck gold and swept first place in both divisions, and followed it up with some success in the individual competitions. It was the first time in 11 years that Sweden swept in the […]

AIMS visited the city hall on invitation of the Mayor of Wroclaw, Mr. Rafał Dutkiewicz. The Mayor was presented with a special token by President Stephan Fox and Vice President Panagiotis Theodoropoulos, thanking him on behalf of all AIMS members, for the people of Wroclaw in opening their homes and hearts to the youth of the world. Mr. Fox especially thanked the Mayor for the amazing championships, assured and that everyone will leave Wroclaw at the end of the games with unforgettable memories of true Polish hospitality.

Fistball, Ju-jistu, Lacrosse, Kickboxing and Powerlifting will be taking part in the 2017 World Games, along with former AIMS members that have made their way into the ARISF family – American Football, Flying Disk and Muaythai. AIMS General Secretary Gerhard Zimmermann stated, “The atmosphere across the venues was electrifying! AIMS is proud to have such a strong presence at the World Games. The attendance in the venues shows the true popularity of the AIMS Sports.”

AIMS President Stephan Fox and Council Member Michal Buchel were invited to the VI MINEPS international conference for ministers and senior officials responsible for physical education and sport. The conference was held from the 13th – 15th July in Kazan, Russia and was attended by representatives from over 120 countries. Both AIMS representatives had the chance to address the audience, the AIMS President, Mr Fox as one of the experts in the panel and Council Member and FIAS CEO, Mr. Buchel as rapporteur on behalf of the working group. AIMS will continue to promote and foster integrity in sport as an IOC recognized umbrella group and as one of the five umbrella groups in GAISF. Mr. Fox, stated, ” it is important that the governments understand the good governance work of AIMS members, especially as non-IOC recognised individual federations.”

A meeting took place for sport federations that have enquired for membership into GAISF (SportAccord) and potential applicants. 48 international sport federations were invited and it was held to provide introduction and practice guidance for international federations and other sport organisations considering applying for membership or associate membership. The day was developed in cooperation with the International Olympic Committee and the GAISF Membership Commission, chaired by Antonio Espinos, President of the World Karate Federation and co-chaired by the two SportAccord Vice Presidents, Raffaele Chiulli, President of ARISF and Stephan Fox, President of AIMS. GAISF President, Patrick Baumann opened the day stating that “sport never stands still”, and that “sport continues to evolve to reflect our changing world”. GAISF currently represents 109 ISFs and other sporting bodies, of which 21 are members of AIMS. The IOC Sports Dept. was represented by Jenny Mann, who praised the cooperation between GAISF and the IOC on the entry level towards further recognition towards AIMS, and then IOC recognised ARISF and the Olympic Programme in ASOIF and AIOWF. Antonio Espinos made it clear that applicants will go through a strict process with rivalry to any existing member as the starting point. The second day featured […]

Francesco Ricci Bitti has stepped down as President of SportAccord Convention, handing over the reins to GAISF President Patrick Baumann. Ricci Bitt’s decision to step aside has now combined both jobs again, however, Mr Ricci Bitti will remain on the Executive Board of the SportAccord Convention to represent the Summer Olympic IFs (ASOIF), which he heads as President. Mr Ricci Bitti thanked the board for accepting his proposal, assuring them the support if ASOIF. Mr. Ricci Bitti continued by stating that the announcement of the convention hosted by Bangkok in 2018 and the interest of so many other potential candidates gives us great confidence for future events. Patrick Baumann is not only President of GAISF at the convention, but also the head of the coordination commission for the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics. Mr Baumann stated that he would like to thank Francesco Ricci Bitti for his confidence, his great commitment and that he looked forward to the continued success of GAISF and the SportAccord Convention for the benefit of all member associations. AIMS would like to congratulate Mr Baumann and the twenty one international federations grouped together under AIMS are looking forward to a continued cooperation with ASOIF, AIOWF, […]

BANGKOK, Thailand, May 31, 2017 – SportAccord Convention is delighted to confirm the official signing ceremony took place today with Host City ‘Bangkok’ for the sixteenth edition of the Convention to be held from 15 – 20 April 2018. The signing event was carried out at the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) building with Nis Hatt, Managing Director of SportAccord Convention, H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand, H.E. Mrs. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, the Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand and witnessed by AIMS President and GAISF Vice President, Mr. Stephan Fox. “Hosting the SportAccord Convention in Bangkok enables us to reach out to all the International Sport Federations and those organisations involved in the business of sport to share our sports tourism vision as well as enabling delegates to experience all that Thailand has to offer. The Tourism and Sports Ministry is a key driver in helping to promote Bangkok and Thailand as a sports dream destination and sports hub in Asean, and these are some of the reasons why the SportAccord Convention is an important event for us as the Host City.” said Mrs Kobkarn. With state-of-the-art venues and a city brimming with opportunities and cultural gems, Bangkok […]

The world recognized Combat Sports and Martial Arts IF leaders convened for the Combat Games meeting under the leadership of the Combat Games Commission. The meeting, held on the 6th of April during the SportAccord Convention was hailed a huge success with the World Combat Games set to return in 2019 after the show of overwhelming support by the international federations. Commission Chairman and SportAccord/ GAISF Vice President, Stephan Fox reported that very keen and positive feedback was received from the questionnaire sent prior to the meeting, with the next step being the fine tuning of the event format. The Commission has received strong proposals from a number of bidding cities, whose representatives were in attendance of the SAC 2017, and the next IF Forum in Lausanne will see the next meeting for more decisions to be made. Mr Fox was quoted: “The Combat Games have held two successful editions already in Beijing and St. Petersburg and remain a valuable event for both Olympic and non-Olympic recognised Combat sports and Martial Arts. For the non-Olympic, it gives the athletes a great opportunity to be together with the Olympic athletes and for the Olympic sports, it also gives an opportunist to showcase some of […]

The 2017 WDF Europe Cup Youth will take place July 12 to 15 2017 in Malmo Sweden

On March 31, 2017, the “IFA Fistball World Tour“ is taking off in Porto Alegre, Brazil – a brand new global tournament series for fistball club teams, which will replace the current World Cup from 2018. In total, 101 teams will compete in 21 venues on five continents for points at the World Tour. The two best female and male teams, respectively, will win wild cards for the World Tour Finals, the former World Cup. This new, global series also enhances the value of the big club tournaments. With the long-term partner and fistball supplier Sportastic a first sponsor of the World Tour has been acquired. “The World Tour is a worldwide series of fistball tournaments in various categories through which teams can secure wild cards for the World Tour Finals, the former World Cup. In future, the two best ranked teams from the World Tour will compete at the World Tour Finals, along with the six continental champions from Europe, North and South America, Australia, Africa and Asia“, said Winfried Kronsteiner, chair of the International Fistball Association (IFA) sports commission and initiator of the World Tour. The IFA will regularly publish the current World Tour rankings. MORE THAN 100 […]

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, was confirmed as the host city for the 2018 edition of Sportaccord Convention during a stunning Opening Ceremony to mark the official start of this year’s edition in Aarhus. The announcement was made during a glittering opening ceremony at the Musikhuset, which featured culture, music and the performing arts, as well as speeches from the from the distinguished IOC President Dr Thomas Bach, SportAccord Convention President, Francesco Ricci Bitti,  and the Mayor of Aarhus, Jacob Bundsgaard. Bangkok – and Thailand as a whole – is renowned for the welcoming nature of this people, and the city is served by numerous international airline, with most countries offering direct flights. As the main hub for Southeast Asia, the city will provide a base for Convention attendees who are keen to explore a stunning part of the world.  Bangkok provides a multitude of affordable activities, with plenty to offer visitors in terms of culture, shopping and more. Commenting on the announcement, Francesco Ricci Bitti, President of SportAccord Convention and the Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF), said: “It will be a pleasure to bring the 2018 SportAccord Convention to Bangkok, Thailand, and I would like to thank the Government of Thailand for supporting the Convention, which […]

AIMS President Stephan Fox confirmed that all 21 AIMS member federations will participate at the SAC in Aarhus. Some of them again as exhibitors. The many activities commence on the 3rd in the morning with the IWGA General Assembly and in the afternoon, the AIMS Council meeting. The 4th of April will see a busy day with the Annual AIMS Conference taking place in the morning followed by the AIMS General Assembly. The evening will have the Opening Ceremony, and the Convention will be opened by the IOC President Dr Thomas Bach, and a member of the Royal Family of Denmark. The 5th will be a full Convention day, with many meetings including the Combat Games Meetings. The evening will have the Joint Olympic Dinner hosted by IWGA, ARISF and AIMS, followed by a special cocktail reception of the 2 former AIMS federations, ICU and IFMA, that received IOC recognition in 2016. The 6th will be the ARISF/ WADA session where AIMS will be in full participation and the 7th will see the SportAccord General Assembly. AIMS wishes all the delegates safe travels to Aarhus and looks forward to a very productive week for SportAccord Convention 2017.