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Ludo Wils Awarded IKF Pin of Merit for Lifetime Contribution to Korfball

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The International Korfball Federation (IKF) is proud to award the IKF Pin of Merit to Mr. Ludo Wils (Belgium), recognising his exceptional and lifelong contribution to the development and promotion of korfball. 

Mr Yves Daelmans (IKF Europe President), Mr Ludo Wils, Mrs Inge Van Acker (President of KBKB) – Photo: Marco Spelten

The award was presented earlier today (Friday 1 May 2026) during the Belgian Cup Final between AKC/Luma and Boeckenberg – a fitting moment to honour one of Belgium’s most dedicated contributors to our sport. 

A pioneer of korfball in Belgium, Ludo Wils was among the country’s first internationally recognised IKF referees. His involvement in the sport spans more than six decades, during which he has served as a referee, administrator, and communicator. 

Within the Belgian Korfball Federation (KBKB), Wils served on several committees and held the position of Secretary General from 1998 to 2004. His work played a key role in supporting the growth and organisation of korfball in Belgium. 

Alongside his administrative and refereeing roles, Wils has long been an ambassador for the sport through journalism and media. For many years, he promoted korfball through newspapers, radio, and television, helping to raise its profile both nationally and internationally. More recently, he has continued this work online, managing a well‑followed Facebook community that brings together korfball supporters from around the world. 

His contributions have been recognised many times. Within KBKB, he received the Pin of Merit in 1981, was named an Honorary Member in 1997, and received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007. He has also been honoured outside the sport, receiving the Silver Bloso Badge (1981) and the Order of the Crown (1994). 

For more than 60 years, Ludo Wils has shown unwavering commitment, passion, and service to korfball. 

The IKF Pin of Merit is a tribute to his decades of dedication, and the International Korfball Federation is proud to recognise a figure whose influence will continue to shape our sport for years to come. 

Photo: Marco Spelten / Actiefotografie

Kevin Lauwers Presented with IKF Pin of Merit

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Today in Herentals, Belgium, Mr Kevin Lauwers was presented with the IKF Pin of Merit in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Beach Korfball. The award was presented by Mr Yves Daelmans, President of IKF Europe, during a short ceremony on the occasion of the final weekend of the Belgian hall competition 2026.

The International Korfball Federation is incredibly proud of Kevin’s contribution to our sport and is delighted to publicly honour him with this award.

Over the last decade, Kevin has been a constant and tireless advocate for the Beach Korfball format and has played a hugely significant role in taking Beach Korfball all the way from a dream to The World Games, with Beach Korfball being competed for the first time at The World Games 2025 in Chengdu, China.

Kevin has been central to many of the ‘firsts’ in the first decade of Beach Korfball: Chair (and more!) of the IKF Beach Committee, Coordinating Officer (and more!) of the first official IKF Beach Korfball event held in The Hague in 2017, Coordinating Officer (and more!) for the very first Beach Korfball World Championships held in Nador, Morocco, in 2022, and, in close collaboration with international colleagues, contributing significantly to the concept, format, and even the playing rules of the Beach Korfball format. Kevin’s long hours behind the scenes have truly contributed immeasurably—culminating in the format’s acceptance into The World Games—and we thank him for it.

The IKF Pin of Merit is an important recognition, given to those who have made a dedicated and lasting contribution to Korfball. Kevin’s energy, passion, and endless hard work make him a truly deserving recipient. Thank you, Kevin!

Marco Spelten Awarded IKF Pin of Merit for Outstanding Contribution to Korfball

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On Saturday, July 12, during the closing ceremony of the IKF U21 European Korfball Championship in Herentals, Belgium, the International Korfball Federation (IKF) awarded the IKF Pin of Merit to Marco Spelten of the Netherlands – whose work has shaped how our sport is seen, remembered, and celebrated. 

Marco’s work with the IKF began in 2007 when he was appointed as an official photographer. Since then, Marco and his camera has been a constant presence at korfball events around the world, capturing all the action and emotional moments that have helped bring the sport to life for fans everywhere. 

Dean Woods, IKF Head of Digital and Media said, “Marco’s ability to consistently deliver high-quality photos with incredible speed and professionalism has been a game-changer for the IKF’s media presence, significantly boosting how korfball is showcased to the world”  

Jorge Alves, IKF Senior Vice President, who presented the award during the closing ceremony, praised Marco’s longstanding commitment and influence within the korfball community: 

“Marco has been one of the quiet forces behind the global image of our sport. His photos do more than capture action, they tell the story of korfball’s spirit, passion, and people. This award recognises not only his talent, but also his dedication he has shown over many years to elevate our sport worldwide.” 

Through his business, Actiefotografie, which marks its 25th anniversary this year, Marco has raised the standard for korfball photography, inspiring photographers across multiple sports. But his work goes far beyond the korfball field. 

Marco has worn many hats – player, referee, coach, photographer, mentor, and now also Archive Manager for the IKF. In this latest role, he is helping preserve korfball’s visual history, ensuring that key moments are protected for future generations. 

He’s also helped build a global community of korfball photographers, sharing his time and expertise with young talent not only in the Netherlands, but also in Hungary, Catalonia, Wales, and beyond. Many years ago, he played an important role in launching the Royal Dutch Korfball Association’s (KNKV) website and later received the Wilson Erebeker Award for his efforts. He also founded the Korfbalfoto club, creating a space where photographers could connect over their shared passion for the sport. 

The IKF Pin of Merit is a significant recognition, awarded to individuals who have made a lasting contribution to korfball’s growth and visibility. Marco’s dedication, creativity, and commitment make him a truly deserving recipient. 

Hans Kraaijeveld, bearer of the IKF Pin of Merit, passed away

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The IKF has been made aware of the passing of Mr Hans Kraaijeveld from the Netherlands, at the age of 85.

After a career as referee and korfball administrator in the Netherlands, Mr Kaaijeveld was chair of the IKF Finance Committee for many years, for which he was recognized by receiving the IKF Pin of Merit in 1995

Upon establishment of the Swan Fund by Adrie Zwaanswijk, Mr Kraaijeveld served on the board of the Swan Fund in the role of Treasurer for many years, helping to grow and govern the fund that has supported many national korfball associations with their inception

Mr Kraaijeveld will be remembered for his long-term involvement with korfball over many years, always being straight and clear about his thinking, and focused on the long-term development of our sport.

IKF Pin of Merit awarded to Dani Ezpeleta

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Mr. Dani Ezpeleta, a volunteer with the IKF, is our social media officer. He is responsible for much of the content you view every day across our website and multiple social media channels.

Dani has been awarded the Pin of Merit distinction because of his superhuman efforts over many years promoting korfball around the world. It’s very rare to see him without his laptop or a camera in his hand, in today’s hyper-connected world, social media platforms hold the power to amplify voices and build communities, thanks to Dani’s efforts we have a highly engaged and motivated fanbase and following.

Very early on Dani recognized the potential of social media as a force for good and carved a remarkable path for the International Korfball Federation. Thanks to his passion and dedication we have accounts on every social media platform. Dani’s tireless dedication and innovative approach has made a transformative impact on the Federation’s online presence and beyond.

The IKF Executive Committee is forever grateful for the dedication of Dani Ezpeleta, and to all the volunteers supporting the IKF, National Federations and clubs throughout the world.

 

Jorge Alves & Dani Ezpeleta (c) Photos by Gertrude de Vries and Marco Spelten

IKF PIN of Merit to Dani Ezpeleta (c) Photo by Gertrude de Vries

IKF Pin of Merit awarded to Brian Koppelaar

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The International Korfball Federation Executive Committee has today awarded long-term volunteer Brian Koppelaar the IKF Pin of Merit for his outstanding service to the International Korfball Federation. 

Brian is a member of Papendrechtse Korfbal Club (PKC) in the Netherlands and a long-time volunteer with the IKF. The Pin of Merit was awarded for his outstanding contributions to developing and promoting korfball worldwide.  

Brian is a key part of a dedicated team responsible for the production and delivery of our live stream of our events. The platform that Brian has created allows us to integrate with numerous international broadcasters, creating images that are now seen by millions of people each year.  

Brian’s passion and can-do attitude is infectious, there are no challenges too big either, so far, we have not come across a technical issue that he and his team have not been able to resolve.  

The IKF Executive Committee is forever grateful for the dedication of Brian, and to all the volunteers supporting the IKF, National Federations and clubs throughout the world.

IKF President Gabi Kool presents the Pin of Merit to Brian Koppelaar  

Photos: Gertrude de Vries ©

IKF awards Pin of Merit to Piotr Urbanski (POL)

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The IKF Executive Committee has awarded the IKF Pin of Merit to Piotr Urbanski, for his extensive contribution to the development of korfball over a very long period of time. The pin was presented to Mr Urbanski by Jan Fransoo, President of the IKF.

Mr Urbanski was one of the first korfball players in Poland since 1987. In 1993, he took on the Presidency of the Polish Student Korfball Association, then a member association in the IKF, and developed this to encompass clubs for youth and adults across Poland, to finally convert this into the Polish Korfball Federation in 2012. In 2017, the Polish Korfball Federation became a member of the Polish Olympic Committee, receiving full recognition as a World Games sport. Piotr Urbanski lead the Polish Federation throughout this extensive period of time, driving the development of youth and competitions, and also obtaining extensive support for the Polish national korfball team. In 2019, Mr Urbanski stepped down from his position to be succeeded by Mrs Iwona Zak.

Photo by: Marco Spelten

Piotr Urbanski pin of merit

Krisztina Kövessyné Pogány (HUN) awarded the IKF Pin of Merit

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Just before the start of the medal ceremony of the IKF U21 World Korfball Championship in Budapest, Krisztina Kövessyné Pogány (HUN) was awarded with the IKF Pin of Merit.

Over the last decade the Hungarian Korfball Association has organised multiple successful IKF events, including: (U21) EKC Final Round, EKC First Round and Club events. Ms Kövessyné Pogány has had a leading role in most of these events and always has been able to combine outstanding organisational skills with a warm and emphatic communication style, doing the utmost to make the participating countries and involved officials happy.

On behalf of the IKF Council, Tilbert La Haye (IKF CEO) presented her the well deserved IKF distinction.

Hans Vroegh, long-time international development volunteer, dies at 76

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The IKF regrets to announce the passing of Mr Hans Vroegh, bearer of the IKF Pin of Merit, at age 76, following a progressive disease. Mr Vroegh has spent all of his life supporting the development of korfball, with in particular during the past decades an emphasis on international development. He was one of the key figures behind the “Apeldoorn Youth Tournament” which later developed into the IKF Youth World Cup, and invitation tournament for national U23 teams, and for the international development committee of the KNKV East District. Later, after moving to the North of the Netherlands, he also supported the U19 Korfball World Cup for some years. Within the IKF, Vroegh had been active as referee instructor and as development officer for India and Indonesia. He was awarded the IKF Pin of Merit in 2012.

Mr Vroegh is survived by his wife, two children and four grandchildren. A mourning ceremony will be held on January 10 in Oldeberkoop, Netherlands.

Mr Paul Jeanes awarded IKF Pin of Merit

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Mr Paul Jeanes (ENG)  – in the middle on the photo, surrounded by two assistants –  ended his career as IKF international referee Saturday 16 January 2016; Click here for details . He was assistant referee during the IKF Europa Cup final.

Paul was international korfball referee since the beginning of this century. He was present in many major IKF events as IKF World Korfball Championship, IKF European Korfball Championship, IKF Europa Cup, IKF Europe Shield. He was respected referee in so many matches in 15 years that the IKF Executive Committee awarded him the IKF Pin of Merit for his long lasting outstanding performances.

IKF Senior Vice-President, Frans Walvis, handed him the pin and the certificate in front of the sold out IKF ECup 2016 venue in Budapest (HUN).