It is with great sadness that the International Korfball Federation has learnt of the passing of Jean-Claude Besnard, IKF Badge of Honour, at the age of 78. Mr. Besnard was one of the pioneers of korfball in France. As a delegate of UFOLEP, he showed interest in the game in 1980, which resulted in the birth of korfball in France with a first international tournament in 1982. His efforts lead to a development of a big korfball community in France, with over 1000 active players in the 1990s.
Mr. Besnard was also actively involved with the IKF as referee and member of the European Championships Committee. For his work for IKF and his dedication to korfball development in France for decades, he was awarded the IKF Badge of Honour during the IKF World Korfball Championship in 2003.
IKF President Jan Fransoo: ‘The world of korfball says adieu to a great man with a fabulous generosity that I remember with great happiness. My condolences to the Besnard family and the entire French korfball community’.
The 3rd edition of a spectacular the IKF Beach Korfball World Cup (Europe) 2023 has finished in the Polish city of Wroclaw. From 25 to 26 August, 13 teams from 3 different continents competed to be the new champion in this new and fascinating korfball discipline, recently included in the official program of the next World Games 2025 in Chengdu, China.
The 2 fields located at Wrocław Academy of Physical Education in Wrocław became the perfect scenario for great and exciting matches, where all teams had the chance to compete for the win. The sand and the intensity of this discipline guaranteed a lot of tight matches, and lots of them were decided during exciting golden goal extra periods.
Australia, Belgium, Catalonia, England, France, Hungary, Netherlands, Poland, Scotland, Sweden, Türkiye, United States Of America and Wales were the participants in the senior category, and the Belgians were the ones who reached the top position after winning the senior final against the Netherlands by 6-8. They reached the final after winning their semi-final vs Poland by 7-10 in a great match. Congratulations!
Photos by: Marco Spelten
The Dutch team got the silver medal by fighting until the last second of every match, like they did in the final vs BEL and also during the thought semi-final vs USA which they won by one single goal (4-3).
Photos by: Marco Spelten
For the Bronze medal, Poland, the current world champions, played against an intense and competitive strong squad from the United States. The Americans were leading the game with 3 goals in advantage, but in the last 3 minutes, an impressive comeback from the Polish team decided the game in favour of the locals with a close 11-12.
Photos by: Marco Spelten
The U19 competition played between Belgium, Catalonia, Netherlands and Poland finished with another duel NED-BEL, also ending in favour of the Belgian players by 5-6. Catalonia finished 3rd and Poland 4th.
FINAL RANKING: SENIOR COMPETITION
1st – Belgium
2nd – The Netherlands
3rd – Poland
4th – United States Of America
5th – Hungary
6th – France
7th – Catalonia
8th – Wales
9th – Türkiye
10th – Australia
11th – Scotland
12th – England
13th – Sweden
The IKF and the PKA were honored to have the Polish Olympic Committee as a patron of this important international event, successfully organised, once again, by the Polish Korfball Association and lots of great volunteers and officials. Thank you very much to all of them for their support and good job and spirit!
LIVE STREAM PLAYLIST: *Click on the top-right icon ≣ to view all games scheduled
All games were available to watch live for free on YouTube.com/ikfchannel: Link to playlist
All fans around the world were also follow this tournament, with the best image galleries, videos and photos on www.beachkorfball.sport, as well as on social media visiting the different @BeachKorfball profiles and via the hashtags #BKWC2023 and #beachkorfball:
https://korfball.sport/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/IKF_BKWC_EU_2023_Day2_BeachKorfball_Marco_BEL_header.jpeg3801000Dani Ezpeletahttps://korfball.sport/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/LogoIKF.pngDani Ezpeleta2023-08-27 10:18:222023-12-11 08:58:34Belgium wins the senior and the U19 IKF Beach Korfball World Cup (Europe) 2023
[Updated after Day 1] The Polish Korfball Association is ready to host the 3rd edition of the IKF Beach Korfball World Cup (Europe) 2023. From 25 to 26 August, 14 13 teams from 3 different continents will be competing for a place in the final podium at Wrocław Academy of Physical Education in Wrocław.
Australia, Belgium, Catalonia, England, France, Hungary, Morocco, Netherlands, Poland, Scotland, Sweden, Türkiye, United States Of America and Wales are the participants in the senior category.
UPDATED RESULTS & RANKING AFTER DAY 1
24/8/2023 – 18:00 pm ⚠️ URGENT ⚠️ Updated match schedule: The IKF and LOC have faced a last-minute withdrawal of Morocco, due to VISA problems. Despite various efforts, the required documents to travel to Poland were not obtained. Therefore, the IKF BKWC (Europe) 2023 will take place with 13 senior teams.
The U19 event will be played by Belgium, Catalonia, Netherlands and Poland.
The IKF and the PKA are honored to have the Polish Olympic Committee as a patron of this important international event.
All games will be available to watch live for free on YouTube.com/ikfchannel: Link to playlist
LIVE STREAM PLAYLIST: *Click on the top-right icon ≣ to view all games scheduled
FOLLOW ON SOCIAL MEDIA
All fans around the world can also follow this tournament, with all the results, rankings, image galleries and photos on www.beachkorfball.sport, as well as on social media visiting the different @BeachKorfball profiles and via the hashtags #BKWC2023 and #beachkorfball:
24/7/2023 – The match schedules for the IKF Beach Korfball World Cup (Europe) 2023 senior & U19 categories have been published.
6/7/2023 – 20:30 (CEST) – The groups are known:
6/7/2023 – 20:00 (CEST) – Live draw:
Official logo:
https://korfball.sport/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/header_website_BKWCEU2023_follow.png3491030Dani Ezpeletahttps://korfball.sport/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/LogoIKF.pngDani Ezpeleta2023-08-23 17:09:502023-12-11 08:58:34Follow the IKF Beach Korfball World Cup (Europe) 2023!
Egon E. Jolig, IKF Badge of Honour, has passed away at the age of 86 on 14 July 2023. Mr. Jolig received the IKF Badge of Honour for his work on korfball development in Germany. He was long-time chairman of the Ballsports section of the Deutscher Turner Bund.
IKF President Jan Fransoo presented him the IKF Badge of Honour during the IKF World Youth Championships in Duisburg in 2004. Mr. Jolig was president of the organizing committee of that event.
Egon E. Jolig will be remembered as a passionate volunteer for various leisure organisations, and the IKF is grateful for his contribution to the development of korfball.
https://korfball.sport/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Egon_E_Jolig_14july2023_web.png321845Dani Ezpeletahttps://korfball.sport/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/LogoIKF.pngDani Ezpeleta2023-08-14 13:46:222023-12-11 08:58:35Egon E. Jolig, IKF Badge of Honour, passes away
The IKF U21 Asia-Oceania Korfball Championship 2023 is over after an intense and exciting week full of korfball and a great ambience, proclaiming Chinese Taipei as champions of this 2023 edition, after winning today’s decisive final match against Malaysia by 9-27.
The Bronze medal match between China and Hong Kong China ended 24-11 in favour of China, who leaded the match from the beginning until the end, despite efforts of HKG that kept playing looking for a comeback.
We witnessed an exhilarating display of talent and sportsmanship as the IKF U21 Asia-Oceania Korfball Championship 2023 in Shah Alam, Malaysia. This prestigious tournament showcased the best young korfball players from across the region, and it was a historic occasion for Malaysia as they hosted their first ever international Korfball event.
Nine teams from Asia and Oceania participated in this thrilling competition, making it a true celebration of the sport’s global reach. Athletes from Chinese Taipei, Malaysia, China, Hong Kong China, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Thailand, and India showcased their skills, determination, and teamwork throughout the championship.
The closing ceremony was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including IKF Asia President Prof. Inglish Huang, Mr. Tim Miller, President of IKF Oceania, and IKF Exco Member, Mr. Jorge Alves. Their attendance at the event highlighted the significance and recognition of the tournament on an international level.
Moreover, Ms. Daphne Lau Wai Fun, the President of the Malaysia Korfball Association, played a pivotal role in organizing this grand event. Her dedication and commitment to the sport were instrumental in ensuring the success of the championship. Her presence during the prize distribution ceremony added a sense of pride and accomplishment to the occasion.
Chinese Taipei emerged as the champions, displaying their mastery of the game with a resounding victory in the final match against Malaysia. The scoreline of 27-9 reflected their exceptional skills, teamwork, and strategic prowess. Their achievement marked a successful defense of their title and solidified their position as one of the dominant forces in the world of korfball.
However, it was Malaysia who created history by making it to the final for the first time. Their remarkable journey saw them defeat previous time finalists (2019), China, in a thrilling semifinal match. The Malaysian team’s performance demonstrated their rapid growth, determination, and resilience as they continue to make their mark on the international korfball stage.
China secured the third position in the tournament by defeating Hong Kong China with a commendable score of 24-11. Their consistent performance and expertise in the game were on full display, showcasing their status among the top teams in the region.
The Malaysia Korfball Association deserves heartfelt congratulations for their remarkable efforts in organizing this grand event. Their dedication and hard work have undoubtedly contributed to the growth and popularity of korfball in the region.
As the IKF U21 Asia-Oceania Korfball Championship 2023 comes to a close, we extend our congratulations to Chinese Taipei for their well-deserved victory, as well as to Malaysia for their exceptional performance and successful hosting of this memorable event. We also salute all the participating teams for their dedication, sportsmanship, and incredible talent displayed throughout the championship.
The tournament was a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together, fostering friendship, and promoting healthy competition. Let us cherish the memories, celebrate the triumphs, and continue to support the growth of korfball in the Asia-Oceania region.
Updated results and final ranking
The Malaysia Korfball Association was the organiser of this event and all games were played at National Sports Complex, Shah Alam You can visit the official website of the tournament (facebook.com/IKFU21AOKC2023) to find and review all the information about this event, as well as all the other activities and events planned to enjoy an intense and exciting 6-day korfbal championship.
Fans around the world were able to watch and enjoy all games through the IKF live streamings available on www.worldkorfball.sportand youtube.com/ikfchannel, with all the statistics, results, top scorers and rankings.
IKF Youtube live streaming playlist:
*Click on the top-right icon ≣ to view all games scheduled
On social media you can find the best images, clips and highlights, visiting the official IKF profiles (see below) and via the hashtags #U21AOKC and #korfball:
After 3 intense and exciting days at the IKF U21 Asia-Oceania Korfball Championship 2023, the Malaysian city of Shah Alam in Selangor is ready to host the decisive final crossings that will decide which teams will play for medals on Sunday.
Australia, China, Hong Kong China, India, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Chinese Taipei, Thailand and Sri Lanka are the ten teams participating in this always exciting tournament.
Updated results and final match schedule | 2nd Phase
The Malaysia Korfball AssocationAssociation is the organiser of this event and all games will be played at National Sports Complex, Shah Alam You can visit the official website of the tournament (facebook.com/IKFU21AOKC2023) to find all the updated information about this event, as well as all the other activities and events planned to enjoy an intense and exciting 6-day korfbal championship.
Fans around the world will be able to watch and enjoy all games through the IKF live streamings available on www.worldkorfball.sportand youtube.com/ikfchannel, with all the statistics, results, top scorers and rankings.
IKF Youtube live streaming playlist:
*Click on the top-right icon ≣ to view all games scheduled
On social media you can find the best images, clips and highlights, visiting the official IKF profiles (see below) and via the hashtags #U21AOKC and #korfball:
The Malaysian city of Shah Alam in Selangor is hosting from 8 to 13 August the IKF U21 Asia-Oceania Korfball Championship 2023. Australia, China, Hong Kong China, India, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Chinese Taipei, Thailand and Sri Lanka are the ten teams that will participate in this always exciting tournament to decide wich country is the most powerful in this intercontinental event. During the first 4 days, teams will compete in a group phase, and the last 2 days, they will play a second phase that will decide the final crossings.
Updated match schedule after the late withdrawal of #TeamSriLanka:
The Malaysia Korfball AssocationAssociation is the organiser of this event and all games will be played at National Sports Complex, Shah Alam You can visit the official website of the tournament (facebook.com/IKFU21AOKC2023) to find all the updated information about this event, as well as all the other activities and events planned to enjoy an intense and exciting 6-day korfbal championship.
Fans around the world will be able to watch and enjoy all games through the IKF live streamings available on www.worldkorfball.sportand youtube.com/ikfchannel, with all the statistics, results, top scorers and rankings.
IKF Youtube live streaming playlist:
*Click on the top-right icon ≣ to view all games scheduled
On social media you can find the best images, clips and highlights, visiting the official IKF profiles (see below) and via the hashtags #U21AOKC and #korfball:
The IKF is excited to share that Dean Woods has been appointed as chair of the IKF Marketing, ICT and Live Streaming Committees. In this role, Dean will coordinate the work of the three committees, thereby connecting the initiatives and work of all involved volunteers more closely.
The IKF is delighted to have Dean on board, with his extensive experience in the marketing and media in the korfball world. Gabi Kool, IKF President Nominee: ‘The IKF ExCo is extremely pleased to have Dean joining in this new exciting role. His experience with England Korfball in the PR & Communications team saw him during a ten-year tenure revolutionize the way that England Korfball portrayed itself to its members and the wider public. The high-quality professional and engaging content and branding became the benchmark of everything that England Korfball does. Dean was recognized for his achievements through IKF’s 2019 Award to England Korfball for Innovation and we look very much forward to seeing Dean lead the IKF Marketing, LiveStreaming, ICT and social media committees through similar ideas, innovation and energy to the benefit of our increasing portfolio of activities in these areas on a global level’
Dean is excited to take on the role: ”I am delighted to be appointed as the Head of Marketing, ICT and Live Streaming for the International Korfball Federation. I have been involved with korfball for almost 30 years, as a player I represented Great Britain and England, and then almost a decade as an international referee with the IKF. I am excited to continue working with the IKF in this new role. I know I can help the IKF and the sport reach even greater heights. My previous role was part of the Media and Communications team for England Korfball, a role I held for over 10 years which provided a wealth of experience in all things marketing, media and events management. I am confident that I can use my skills, knowledge and experience to help the IKF grow the sport of korfball globally. I would like to thank all the existing IKF volunteers working in the social media, website, live stream, and photography teams for their dedication and continued efforts. I am confident that together, we can continue to ensure korfball reaches its full potential.”
https://korfball.sport/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/web_Mark_officer_jul2023.png321845Geke Maathttps://korfball.sport/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/LogoIKF.pngGeke Maat2023-08-04 11:17:382023-12-11 08:58:37Dean Woods appointed as chair of the IKF Marketing, ICT & Live Streaming Committees
The Executive Committee of the International Korfball Federation has decided to appoint its Secretary General, Ms Joana Faria (POR) as CEO with immediate effect. Ms Faria will continue to work from Lisbon (POR), from where she will lead the IKF Operations. The IKF Headquarters will remain based in the Netherlands.
Ms Faria has been IKF Secretary General since 2017 as a volunteer role. She will now start working full-time for the International Korfball Federation. Faria was an elite athlete, playing for an impressive 20 years in the national team of Portugal, has been coaching elite korfball teams in the Portuguese League, and has taught thousands of children the basics of korfball. Apart from that, she has gained extensive administrative experience at club, national, and international level. Faria is excited to take on the role: “I am deeply honored to accept the role of CEO and continue my responsibilities as Secretary General. It is a tremendous opportunity to build upon the strong foundation we have and further enhance the impact of korfball worldwide. I am committed to working closely with National Federations, IKF Committees, and my esteemed colleagues on the IKF Council and Executive Committee to achieve our collective vision.”
The appointment of Faria follows a rigorous selection process that was led by IKF Executive Vice-President and Presidential nominee Mr Gabi Kool. Her outstanding leadership experience in global korfball and extensive network across the international korfball community made her the clear choice to drive the IKF forward.
Mr Kool expresses full confidence in Ms Faria’s capabilities, stating, “With her dynamic leadership, unparalleled dedication, and a clear vision for the future, Ms Faria will undoubtedly bring new energy to our operations. As Presidential nominee, I am thrilled to work alongside her in this exciting chapter, ensuring a united and prosperous future for korfball.”
The International Korfball Federation extends its warmest congratulations to Ms Joana Faria on her well-deserved appointment as CEO. Together, the global korfball community looks forward to an inspiring era of operational excellence and collaboration, forging a path towards a brighter and even more inclusive future.
IKF Presidential Nominee Gabi Kool, IKF Secretary General and CEO Joana Faria, and IKF President Jan Fransoo
https://korfball.sport/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/web_Joana_Faria_New_IKF_CEO_July_2023.jpg321845Jan Fransoohttps://korfball.sport/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/LogoIKF.pngJan Fransoo2023-08-03 10:29:542023-12-11 08:58:38IKF appoints Secretary General Joana Faria as CEO
The IKF has learned with sadness about the passing of Mr. Karel Verschoor, bearer of the IKF Badge of Honour, at age 83 on 9 July 2023.
Mr. Verschoor was greatly involved in the development of korfball in Central Europe, especially in Czech Republic and Slovakia. As volunteer he put tremendous efforts into developing korfball in these regions in the 90s. He did so by visiting schools and clubs, organising seminars and helping korfball bodies in their early stages. For this, he was awarded the IKF Badge of Honour in March 1999. The IKF is grateful for his many contributions to the development of korfball.
For his efforts, Mr Verschoor was also indicted in the Czech Korfball Hall of Fame in 2019.
https://korfball.sport/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Karel-_Verschoor_9july2023_web.png321845Geke Maathttps://korfball.sport/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/LogoIKF.pngGeke Maat2023-07-26 14:17:142023-12-11 08:58:38IKF Badge of Honour, Mr. Karel Verschoor, passes away
