Posts

Jan Fransoo nominated for IWGA Executive Committee Vice-President

/in , /by

The International World Games Association (IWGA) has officially announced its candidates for the 2026–2030 Executive Committee. Among the nominees for Vice-President is Jan Fransoo, Honorary Life President of the International Korfball Federation (IKF) and a leading figure in international sports governance.

The election will take place during the IWGA Annual General Meeting on 25 April 2026 in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Proven Leadership

Jan’s candidacy is built on a foundation of significant leadership. First elected to the IKF Executive Committee in 1995, he served as IKF President for two decades (2003–2023). His era as President was defined by the global expansion of korfball, leading to his appointment as Honorary Life President in late 2023.

Impact within the IWGA

Since 2018, Jan has been an active member of the IWGA Executive Committee. Currently completing his second term, he has  led the strategic development of the IWGA. He developed a quota mechanism through which all member International Federations could take part in The World Games once their proposal meets a set of clear criteria.  

Further, he initiated a process of closer and more regulated collaboration with National Olympic Committees and National Sports Associations. The latter is envisioned to provide more support to athletes at the national level.  

In support of the athletes, and in close collaboration with IWGA Athletes Committee chair, Sandra Sanchez, he also set up the first IWGA Athletes Committee, which about 1000 athletes that participated in Chengdu voting for their representative voice on the IWGA Executive Committee. 

His contributions to sport and society were notably recognized in November 2024, when he was appointed a Knight in the Order of Orange-Nassau by King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, a prestigious royal honor initiated by the IKF and the Royal Dutch Korfball Federation.

As the IWGA prepares to shape its strategy through 2030, Jan’s extensive expertise and diplomatic track record makes him an ideal candidate for the Vice-Presidency. The IKF fully supports his nomination and wishes him every success in the upcoming elections.

Excitement builds as IKF CEO attends IWGA General Meeting in Madrid

/in , /by

The International World Games Association (IWGA) recently held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Madrid, Spain, bringing together over 100 representatives from the international sports community. Among the participants was Joana Faria, CEO and Secretary General of the International Korfball Federation (IKF), who represented the global korfball family. 

Encouraging updates from Chengdu

With The World Games 2025 in Chengdu fast approaching, the AGM provided a valuable opportunity for international federations and the IWGA leadership to hold productive discussions on a wide range of important topics. Delegates received encouraging updates from the Chengdu Organising Committee, with information shared regarding competition schedules, accreditation procedures, and visa arrangements – all contributing to a well-planned pathway to Chengdu. 

A significant moment of the meeting was a video address from International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Dr. Thomas Bach, in what marked his final AGM appearance in his current role. His supportive message reaffirmed the IOC’s strong commitment to the IWGA and The World Games, highlighting the continued importance of global collaboration in sport. 

‘It’s an exciting time for korfball’

Joana Faria highlighted the real value of attending the AGM, saying: “Representing korfball at the IWGA AGM was a great opportunity to connect directly with other sports leaders and ensure our sport continues to progress on the global stage.  

“With the korfball competition and the thrilling debut of beach korfball both featuring in The World Games 2025 programme, it’s an exciting time for our sport. The discussions in Madrid with the IWGA and other International Federations reinforced our shared dedication to innovation, collaboration, and the ongoing development of our sports.” 

The AGM also included important updates on The World Games Series and the positive preparations for TWG 2029 in Karlsruhe – Germany, alongside a warm celebration recognising IWGA President José Perurena’s 80th birthday. 

As The World Games 2025 draws closer, we are keen to showcase our sport effectively on the world stage. Actively participating in the IWGA general meeting is important to ensure our continued input into shaping a positive future within The World Games movement. 

Knight of the Order of Orange-Nassau distinction for Jan Fransoo

/in , , /by

On Monday (18 November 2024) Honorary Life President of the International Korfball Federation, and Executive Committee Member of the International World Games Association, Jan Fransoo, was appointed Knight in the Order of Orange-Nassau. The order is awarded on behalf of King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands to individuals who have performed acts of special merit for society. 

The International Korfball Federation (IKF) and the Royal Dutch Korfball Federation (KNKV) jointly nominated Jan for this prestigious award. 

The award ceremony took place at the home of the Dutch Olympic Sports Federation (NOC*NSF) in Papendal in the Netherlands. Jan was delivering a presentation to the General Members’ Meeting of NOC*NSF about The World Games, immediately after Jan’s presentation finished, he was surprised by Mayor Jack Mikkers of the city of ‘s-Hertogenbosch who gave a speech and presented Jan with the order. 

The IWGA said: “This recognition highlights Fransoo’s outstanding contributions to the sport, both in the Netherlands and on a global scale.”  

During the presentation IKF President Gabi Kool said: “Today we honor not only your accomplishments, but also your character, your dedication and the indelible legacy you leave behind. Congratulations, Jan. You truly have been korfball’s best teammate, and the best is yet to come. Ladies and gentlemen, let us celebrate together a life’s work that has touched so many and will continue to inspire generations. Jan, thank you for everything.” 

Jan served on the International Korfball Federation (IKF) board from 1995 to 2023, chairing the organization from 2003 to 2023. During his tenure, the IKF experienced significant growth, with the number of affiliated national associations rising from 33 to 72. 

Under his leadership, the international competition calendar expanded significantly, offering a diverse range of competitions to suit different levels of play. Notably, Jan championed the development of beach korfball, culminating in the inaugural European Championship in 2017. He also established the IKF Korfball Champions League, elevating club competition to a new level. 

To foster the growth of national korfball associations, Jan implemented and funded IKF Development and Education Grants. In 2021, he played a pivotal role in formulating the Olympic Pledge, a framework that empowers national korfball associations to set clear development goals aligned with Olympic aspirations. This initiative, signed by 51 national korfball associations, has further propelled the sport’s global reach. 

The entire korfball community extends its heartfelt congratulations to Jan Fransoo on receiving this prestigious honor. Jan’s tireless dedication and visionary leadership have significantly shaped the global landscape of korfball. We are truly grateful for his invaluable contributions to the sport. 

Photos: Anne van Vegchel 

Netherlands win gold at The World Games 2022

/0 Comments/in , /by

The Netherlands have today (Sunday, Jul 17, 2022) won an tenth consecutive World Games korfball gold medal following victory in today’s final against Belgium in Birmingham, USA.

It was October 2021 during the final of the IKF European Korfball Championship when Netherlands and Belgium last met. The European championship final was spectacular, ending with a narrow victory for Netherlands by four goals [17-21].

Eight months later and the teams meet again in the final of The World Games 2022 in Birmingham, USA. The korfball arena was SOLD OUT for the korfball final at the BJCC East Exhibition Hall – the korfball arena for The World Games creating an electric atmosphere. There wasn’t a spare seat in the house.

Final score [23-12].  Belgium’s Kian AMORGASTE top scored in the game with 5 goals.

Saying goodbye to the world stage  and playing in their last international korfball match is Barbara BROUWER (NED), Julie CALUWE (BEL), Brent STRUYF (BEL) and Jari HARDIES (BEL).

In the end it was a comfortable win for Netherlands. The result means that the Netherlands have now won an eleventh consecutive World Games korfball gold medal. 

Medal Ceremony

twg2022_day5_final_korfball (12)

Jan Fransoo, International Korfball Federation President and Anna Arzhanaova, International World Games Association (IWGA) Executive Committee presents the Gold medals and gifts to Team Netherlands.

twg2022_day5_final_korfball (11)

Joana Faria, International Korfball Federation Secretary General and Nick Sellers, CEO of the Birmingham Organizing Committee for The World Games 2022 presents the Silver medals and gifts to Team Belgium.

twg2022_day5_final_TPE

Gabi Kool, International Korfball Federation Executive Vice President and Jay Karsten, COO of the Birmingham Organizing Committee for The World Games 2022 presents the Bronze medals and gifts to Team Chinese Taipei

Photo: Marco Spelten – actiefotografie.nl

twg2022_day5_final_korfball (1)

Final Ranking – Korfball at The World Games 2022

1st Place – Netherlands
2nd Place – Belgium
3rd Place – Chinese Taipei
4th Place – Germany
5th Place – China
6th Place – Suriname
7th Place – Czech Republic & Portugal

IKF YouTube live streaming playlist:

*Click on the top-right icon ≣ to view all games scheduled

Missed the match? Watch it back here

For the latest information from The World Games search online using the hashtags #WeAreTheWorldGames, #TWG2022 and #Korfball.

Follow us on social media

We invite you to follow this korfball event 24/7 on IKF social media channels with the best moments, images, videos, highlights and latest information. Feel free to share your moments with us tagging the IKF on your posts and stories!

► facebook.com/korfball.org
► twitter.com/korfball
► instagram.com/korfball_org
► tiktok.com/@korfball.sport

IWGA Honorary President attends Korfball at The World Games 2022

/0 Comments/in , /by

We are delighted to welcome Ron Froehlich (USA) Honorary Life President of the International World Games Association (IWGA) into the arena to watch the match between China and Germany on the third day of the korfball competition at The World Games 2022.

Ron Froehlich was IWGA President from 1992 to 2014. Since then, he has been serving as Honorary Life President.

Ron Froehlich gets hands-on with a korfball ball with Gabi Kool, Executive Vice President of the IKF

Ron Froehlich (L) and  Gabi Kool (R)

Ron Froehlich gets hands-on with a korfball ball with Gabi Kool, Executive Vice President of the IKF.

IOC President Thomas Bach enjoys Korfball at The World Games

/0 Comments/in , /by

Today the International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach attended the opening match of the Korfball competition between Belgium and Germany at The World Games in Birmingham, Alabama, USA.

The match was won by Belgium who beat Germany with a scoreline of 26-9.

While today is the first time that Thomas Bach has watched a top level international korfball match, it is not Mr Bach’s first playing korfball! 

At the #OlympicWeek in Lausanne, Switzerland the IOC President took part in a korfball demonstration match with athletes and young people.

Promoting gender equality, both on and off the field of play is a priority for the IOC, who have taken increasing actions in recent years to advance gender equality throughout the whole Olympic movement.

During the 2017 edition of The World Games held in Wrocław, Poland the IOC Sports Director Kit McConnell also took up the opportunity to watch the World’s only mixed-gender team ball sport played at the highest level.

In addition to Thomas Bach, IOC President we today also welcomed Nick Sellers, CEO World Games 2022, Randall Woodfin, Mayor of Birmingham, Jonathan Porter, Chair of Birmingham Organising Committee, Irina Gladkikh, IOC Associate Director, Winter Sports and Recognised Sports. 

We are delighted with the continued focus and support from the IOC and International World Games Association (IWGA) to korfball. Did you know every edition of The World Games, the IOC Sports Director and/or the IOC Olympic Games Executive Director have attended the korfball competition!

While President of the Belgian Olympic Committee, Jacques Rogge, previous IOC President attended the IKF World Korfball Championship in 1991. A year that is famous when Belgium won Gold for the first time in their history. 

Thomas Bach, IOC President

Mr Thomas Bach, IOC President with players and IKF officials at the World Games 2022 | Photo: Marco Spelten

Mr Thomas Bach with a korfball ball

World Games 2022

The World Games is a multi-sport event staged every four years by the International World Games Association and organised with the support of the International Olympic Committee. 

The Korfball competition at The World Games 2022 takes place between Wednesday, July 13 to Sunday, July 17 at the  Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. 

Eight teams qualified for the The World Games; Belgium, China, Chinese Taipei, Czech Republic, Germany, Netherlands, Portugal and Suriname.

For the latest information from The World Games search online using the hashtags #WeAreTheWorldGames #TWG2022 #Korfball.

Follow us on social media

We invite you to follow this korfball event 24/7 on IKF social media channels with the best moments, images, videos, highlights and latest information. Feel free to share your moments with us tagging the IKF on your posts and stories!

► facebook.com/korfball.org

► twitter.com/korfball

► instagram.com/korfball_org

► tiktok.com/@korfball.sport

Where to watch The World Games 2022

/0 Comments/in , /by

The excitement is building ahead of the opening day of the korfball competition. National teams and IKF officials are already in Birmingham, Alabama, USA, to participate from 13 to 17 July 2022 at the The World Games 2022, a huge multi-sport event with more than 3,600 athletes from 34 sports and over 100 countries. 

The World Games started with an amazing opening ceremony at the impressive Protective Stadium on Thursday evening (July 7th), and the spirit of the Olympics is again all around the athletes village. For korfball players The World Games are a unique and unforgettable experience. 

Watch Live – Don’t miss any of the action

All the korfball matches at The World Games will be available to watch for free on the IKF live streaming service available on www.worldkorfball.sport and the IKF YouTube channel. 

Matches on the final day are also available on The World Games website or on the Olympic Channel.

 

 

For the latest information from The World Games search online using the hashtags #WeAreTheWorldGames, #TWG2022 and #Korfball.

Match Schedule

You can follow the scores and match information Live through IKF World Korfball data website. The full fixture list is also available here.

The World Games is a multi-sport event staged every four years by the International World Games Association and organised with the support of the International Olympic Committee.

twg2022_match_schedule_korfball_ikf_revided_4july

Follow us on social media

We invite you to follow this korfball event 24/7 on IKF social media channels with the best moments, images, videos, highlights and latest information. Feel free to share your moments with us tagging the IKF on your posts and stories!

► facebook.com/korfball.org
► twitter.com/korfball
► instagram.com/korfball_org
► tiktok.com/@korfball.sport

 

The World Games 2022: Match schedule published (updated)

/0 Comments/in , , /by

The match schedule for the upcoming The World Games 2022 has been published. This World Games will be held from 13-17 July in Birmingham, Alabama (United States). More information about the event can be found at the event information page.

The korfball event will kick-off with a clash in Pool B between Belgium and Germany, the numbers two and three of the last European Korfball Championship in 2021. Via an intense five days of competition, the final of the event is planned for Sunday 17 July. Right after the medal ceremony of the korfball event the overall closing ceremony of The World Games will take place at the impressive Protective Stadium.

*UPDATE: On July 4, all morning times were updated. Here you have the final match schedule with the correct times.

twg2022_match_schedule_korfball_ikf_revided_4july

The pool draw of the event was webcasted live last February 26th. The draw split the eight teams participating in the event into two pools of four teams each, as can be seen in the overall tournament schedule as presented above.

 

twg2022_match_schedule_square_korfball_ikf_revised_4july

Korfball on the 2021 World Games program

/0 Comments/in , /by

The sports program of the 2021 World Games edition has been published today – 16 April 2018 – and korfball is on the program again.

Korfball has been a World Games program sport on every edition since 1985.

The 2021 World Games will take place from 15 – 25 July 2021 in Birmingham, Alabama, USA.

The full program: World Games 2021 sports program

IKF President Fransoo elected in the board of The World Games

/0 Comments/in , /by

Today, 16 April 2018, IKF President, Dr Jan Fransoo, has been elected in the Executive Committee of the International World Games Federation (IWGA).

The board elections took place during the Annual General Meeting of the IWGA in Bangkok, Thailand. All 37 IWGA Member Federations were present in the General Meeting

Mr José Perurena was re-elected as IWGA President.

The korfball community congratulates Jan Fransoo with this election as IWGA Board member.