IF Forum Celebrates 10 Years Today -- Federations Focus

(ATR)Over 100 delegates from sports federations around the world have gathered in Lausanne, Switzerland today for the 10th anniversary edition of the International Federation Forum.

"We are proud to celebrate a decade of learning and progress and would like to thank our Stakeholders and Members for making the IF Forums such a success over the last ten years.

"This milestone is testament to the International Federations’ commitment to continued innovation for our athletes, as well as the significant role sport can play in cultures and communities around the world," President of ASOIF and the SportAccord Convention President Francesco Ricci Bitti said in a statement.

The three-day program hosted by Sport Accord will feature discussions on doping in sport, athlete health and how sport can make a difference, under the theme "Power of Sport to Drive World Health".

"This is a defining time for sport and Sport Accord continues to be a strong platform for all its Members. The IF Forum gives us the opportunity to reflect on how our policies, partnerships and resources can best be put into use to support athletes at every level, and make a difference to world health. The power of sport can never be underestimated," President of Sport Accord Patrick Baumann stated.

IOC President Thomas Bach and the Mayor of Lausanne Gregoire Junod began the forum by welcoming all delegates before opening addresses from Ricci Bitti and Baumann.

The first two days of the event will consist of keynote addresses, panel discussions, lectures and sessions with topics that include Preventing Athlete Injuries, Medication Abuse in Elite Sport and Defining and Prevention of Harassment and Abuse in Sport. Some of the featured speakers of the forum include Olympic Gold medalist Stefan Groothius and IIHF President Dr. Rene Fasel.

BBC journalist David Eades will serve as the master of ceremonies for the event that concludes on Nov. 11.

WSF Elects New President

For the next four years Jacques Fontaine will be serving as the 9th President of the World Squash Federation (WSF).

"My intention will be to work with a new governance model based on integrity, transparency and team spirit.

"The Olympic agenda remains a priority, along with increasing the profile of our sport worldwide and supporting grassroots development. Collaboration of all Member Nations is a must," Fontaine said in a statement.

The former President of the French Squash Federation has also worked as the European Regoinal Vice President and is a board member of the French NOC. Fontaine was chosen over three other candidates including WSF Vice President Mohamed El Menshawy and President of the European Squash Federation Zena Wooldridge.

Along with electing a new president, choosing four new vice presidents and approving Tahiti as a member were also agenda items completed during the annual general meeting of the WSF today.

Written by Courtney ColquittandKevin Nutley

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