Six World-Class Athletes Elected to IFA Athletes’ Commission at The World Games

published: August 14, 2025

The IFA Athletes’ Commission has been successfully elected at The World Games, bringing together six outstanding representatives from three continents to shape the future of fistball.

Successful Election of the IFA Athletes’ Commission at The World Games

The election of the IFA Athletes’ Commission during The World Games has been successfully completed. All nominated candidates have been elected and will serve as members of the Athletes’ Commission for a term of four years, until the next World Games in 2029.

Elected Members

Men

  • Josh Cameron (NZL) – Committed to growing fistball internationally, particularly in New Zealand, where his efforts have already expanded the sport. His vision and dedication bring fresh perspectives to the Athletes’ Commission.

  • Gabriel Heck (BRA) – With many years of active involvement in fistball, Gabriel aims to use his experience to help the sport grow and make it even more enjoyable and rewarding for players worldwide.

  • Eric Kindler (USA) – A long-serving Chair of the Athletes’ Commission and active international player, Eric has been a strong voice for athletes in the IFA Board of Directors, advocating for fair play, athlete welfare, and sport development.

Women

  • Tanja Bognar (SUI) – A long-time member of the world’s fistball elite, with international playing experience in both Europe and South America, Tanja brings a deep understanding of the athlete community.

  • Cecilia Jaques (BRA) – Drawing on her playing experience and involvement in PAFA, Cecilia is dedicated to representing athletes’ voices and contributing to the worldwide growth of fistball.

  • Antonia Woitsch (AUT) – Current Chair of the Athletes’ Commission and member of the IFA Board of Directors, Antonia’s open-minded approach and strong motivation to improve fistball at all levels make her a valuable representative.

Both current Chairs and IFA Board members, Antonia Woitsch (AUT) and Eric Kindler (USA), have been re-elected to the Athletes’ Commission and will continue their successful work representing athletes’ interests at the highest level.

“I am proud to see that our Athletes’ Commission is now composed of world-class athletes from different continents. They are not only outstanding on the field but also bring passion and a sense of responsibility for the further development of our sport”, said IFA President Jörn Verleger.

The Athletes’ Commission will now elect from among its members a male and a female Chair. Both will become members of the IFA Board of Directors and will represent the athletes’ voices in the federation’s highest decision-making body.

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WE ARE FISTBALL

THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

In every country where fistball is actively practiced, there is a national association with passionate people who are responsible for this sport.

It bundles and represents the interests and is the first point of contact for the athletes and teams in the respective country.