All posts by Media Team

Recap Day 2 World Championship – Argentina wins thrilling five-set match, while Germany and Austria are on track for group victory

Sunday July 23rd, 2023 Media Team

Title defenders Germany maintained their flawless record on the second day of the 16th IFA Men’s Fistball World Championship and impressively demonstrated their strength with a 3-0 victory against Switzerland, in front of 2.500 spectators at the Rhein-Neckar Stadium. Austria showed improvement and secured an important win in the top match against Brazil.

Germany – Switzerland 3-0 (11-9, 11-4, 11-3)

A fantastic atmosphere at the Rhein-Neckar Stadium as the German team thrilled the spectators in their second group stage match. Switzerland managed to keep pace with Germany towards the end of the first set, coming back from a 5-8 deficit to level at 9-9. However, the German strickers, Patrick Thomas and Johannes Jungclaussen, stepped up to win the set. Germany continued their dominant performance, quickly taking a 5-0 lead in the following sets. Switzerland, who were strong opponents in last year’s World Games final, stood no chance. Coach Olaf Neuenfeld made substitutions in the defense during the game, but the quality did not diminish with the inclusion of Oliver Kraut, Tim Albrecht, and Jakob Kilpper.

Denmark defends Belgium’s offense
Denmark – Belgium 3-0 (11-6, 12-10, 11-7)

Denmark secured second place in Group D after their second group stage victory, this time against Belgium. The Danes delivered convincing performances, especially in the first and third sets. In the second set, Belgium, leading 6-4 at one point, came close to winning a set. The game remained even until 10-10, but in the crucial moments, Denmark managed to step up their game.

USA leads Group D
USA – Serbia 3-0 (11-7, 12-10, 11-6)

The Americans lead Group D after two dominant victories and will face Denmark on Monday to decide the group winner. Serbia displayed some spectacular moves and great defensive actions, making the second set challenging for the USA, as they were briefly trailing behind at 10-9. However, the USA showcased their class and won both the set and the match.

Thrilling five-set match in the South American clash
Chile – Argentina 2-3 (13-11, 6-11, 4-11, 12-10, 7-11)

The thrilling game of the World Championship at the Rhein-Neckar Stadium between Chile and Argentina was not for the faint-hearted. In front of 2500 spectators, Chile took the lead but fell behind in the following sets. At 10-5 for Argentina in the fourth set, it seemed the match was decided, but Chile fought back, resulting in an incredible turnaround. Both teams engaged in a defensive battle with long rallies. Chile fought off five match points and scored an impressive seven consecutive points to win the set. However, in the decisive fifth set, Argentina sealed their first group stage victory.

Austria outshines Brazil
Austria – Brazil 3-1 (7-11, 11-9, 11-6, 12-10)

In the crucial match for the group victory, the cards were clearly stacked in favor of Brazil. Only the winner is likely to avoid tournament favorite and reigning world champion Germany in the semifinals. The South Americans had the better start, and Austria made mistakes, appearing nervous. Consequently, Austria lost the first set. However, the Austrians turned the game around when they trailed 6-8 and won the second set 11-9. Brazil seemed paralyzed afterwards, unable to find their flow. Austria won the third set and started the fourth set with an 8-6 lead. Despite Brazilian mistakes, and thanks to the impressive performance of striker Karl Mühllehner, Austria secured the vital 3-1 victory.

New Zealand remains undefeated
New Zealand – Japan 3-0 (11-7, 11-5, 11-9)

With their second win, New Zealand secured the top spot in Group C. Japan, known for their acrobatic plays, showed improvement compared to the opening match and came close to winning the third set. Despite not yet having won a match, they have already become crowd favorites.

Australia struggles to victory against Czech Republic
Czech Republic – Australia 2-3 (11-9, 9-11, 11-5, 9-11, 5-11)

In an evenly-matched and exciting duel, Czech Republic’s two-set lead was not enough for a second group stage victory. Australia fought back to equalize and dominated the decisive fifth set.

Determined Italy defeats tenacious Namibia
Italy – Namibia 3-0 (15-13, 11-9, 13-11)

In a tight and thrilling floodlit match, Italy emerged victorious against the African team. The “Azzuris,” led by veteran Armin Runer, won two of the three sets in overtime. Namibia put up a passionate fight but could not reward themselves with a set win.

All games are livstreamed on fistball.tv.

Recap Wold Championship Day 1 – Many favorites secure victories on the opening day

Sunday July 23rd, 2023 Media Team

Germany defeats Namibia
Titleholder Germany started the 16th IFA Fistball Men’s World Championship with a clear victory on the first day of the tournament. And in the other seven preliminary round matches, the favorites prevailed in front of 2,200 spectators at the Mannheim Rhein-Neckar Stadium.
Germany – Namibia 3:0 (11:2, 11:5, 11:4)

Olaf Neuenfeld had announced his intention to give playing time to the entire 10-player squad against Namibia, and he succeeded in doing so. The reigning champions had a perfect start to the World Championship on their home turf, and they also gave Jonas Schröter the appropriate gift for his 27th birthday. The starting five, with Patrick Thomas and Nick Trinemeier as strikers, overwhelmed the men from Southern Africa in the opening set with a score of 11:2. Germany only conceded nine points in the following two sets. Despite the defeat, the large crowd of fans from Namibia was impressive, creating a lively atmosphere in the stands. The fans rejoiced at every point against the overwhelming favorites and celebrated loudly.

Czech Republic wins the first match of the championship
Czech Republic – Japan 3:0 (11:3, 11:9, 11:6)

The opening match of this World Championship was filled with great excitement as the Czech Republic convincingly won 3:0 (11:3, 11:9, 11:6) against Japan. The Czech team, led by coach Jan Mazal, showed a convincing performance from the beginning and only faced some difficulties in the second set.

New Zealand’s victory with the “Haka”
New Zealand – Australia 3:0 (11:6, 11:5, 11:6)

The Oceania clash between New Zealand and Australia had a similar one-sided outcome, with the “Kiwis” claiming a 3:0 victory (11:6, 11:5, 11:6). They hyped themselves up before the match with their traditional “Haka” performance, which generated immense enthusiasm in the stadium.

Italy takes a set from Switzerland
Switzerland – Italy 3:1 (11:3, 9:11, 11:7, 11:6)

Switzerland fulfilled their duty and won 3:1 against a strong Italian team. After an almost perfect first set, an exciting second set unfolded. Italy, led by their attacker Armin Runer, who scored points with clever shots, secured a well-deserved set victory. Swiss coach Oli Lang made two substitutions, bringing in Tim Egolf and Leon Heitz, and despite losing the second set, they secured a ultimately comfortable victory.

USA impress against Belgium
USA – Belgium 3:0 (11:3, 11:4, 11:4)

With their clear 3:0 victory against the surprise team Belgium, the US boys took an important step towards winning their group. The Americans were never in real trouble against Belgium, who qualified for the World Championship at the last minute due to India’s withdrawal.

Denmark’s attack power secures victory
Denmark – Serbia 3:1 (11:4, 9:11, 11:3, 11:1)

Denmark dominated almost the entire game, with Serbia only managing to keep up in the second set, earning them at least one set victory. In the subsequent sets, Denmark’s strong attacking game proved to be the decisive factor for the victory.

Austria with a strong tournament start
Austria – Argentina 3:0 (11:3, 11:5, 11:9)

Austria arrived with ambitions for the title and confirmed them with a strong performance in their opening match against Argentina. In the 3:0 victory against the South Americans, the 2007 World Champions had some difficulties in the third set, with Argentina holding on until 8:8. However, Team Austria sealed the victory with the second match ball.

Brazil’s powerful attackers celebrate a confident victory
Brazil – Chile 3:0 (11:2, 11:7, 11:8)

In the first floodlit match of this World Championship, Brazil achieved the expected success against determined Chileans, who fought with all their might. However, they ultimately lacked the skills to match the powerful and attacking Brazilian team. From the beginning, Brazil showcased their top form and were on par with the strong title contenders from Germany and Austria.

All World Championship games can be watched on the live on fistball.tv.
For more information and full results, visit www.fistballmwc.com

Photo: Austrian striker, Jean Andrioli
Photocredit: Petra Den Dulk

More Photos and Videos for further use are available on http://media.faustballwm.de
More information: www.fistballmwc.com

Austrian Help for Team New Zealand – Interview with Anika Hartl

Sunday March 26th, 2023 Media Team

At the invitation of the New Zealand Men’s National Team, Anika Hartl travelled together with Emma Dallinger, Jana Pinsker and Elias Eckerstorfer to Timaru, the center of New Zealand Fistball.
We took the opportunity to talk to Anika Hartl and learn more about Fistball in New Zealand.

How did the contact to NZ come about?
I had seen the IFA’s call on Facebook that the New Zealand Fistballers were looking for a coach to prepare for the Men’s World Championships. I was thrilled, as I wanted to travel after my A-levels anyway and if that can be combined with the sport of Fistball, all the better.

Why a “whole delegation”?
Word got around and, in the end, there were four of us interested and the New Zealanders didn’t mind. We left on November 1st with an extended layover in Sydney. On November 7th we landed in Christchurch and the New Zealand adventure began for us.

How long did the trip last?
We were on the road from November until mid-February.

What is Timaru like?
Timaru is a tranquil little town with a population of just under thirty thousand and is located on the east coast of the South Island. It is about 150 km southwest of Christchurch on the sea with a great beach. We arrived in the middle of the New Zealand summer. The people welcomed us with open arms and gave us a warm welcome.

Where did you stay?
We stayed in the guest flat of the Kempf family. The Kempfs are a Fistball-loving family with Swiss ancestors. Sam and Jesse were on the 2019 world championship team that placed 11th at the first attempt. René, their father, plays Fistball himself and will be the head of the delegation in Mannheim.

How did the first training session go?
First, we introduced ourselves to each other and started with the basics such as ball control, passing, etc. We felt a lot of commitment from the very first moment. From the very first moment, we sensed a great willingness on the part of the New Zealanders – but fun was never neglected.

How many times a week did you train?
We trained intensively 3 times a week. There were up to 15 people on the field at any one time. We continued to work on the “basics” of Fistball. All the players are sports enthusiasts and have a good basic fitness level. We played many sets competitively and tried to teach tactical finesse as well as technique. Some of the Fistball players came from Christchurch. Finally, a training camp lasting several days and the selection for the World Championship squad took place. We also held “Training for Beginners” and taster courses at a local school.

Did you also sight see in New Zealand?
Definitely! We trained from Thursday evening to Saturday and in between we visited the South Island. In the holiday period over Christmas, we had a break in training for 3 weeks and during that time we were on the road in the North Island. Our hosts supported us with great tips and lots of information about the sights.

Unfortunately, the last U18 World Championship did not take at the end of 2022. Would you make the long journey to New Zealand for a World Championship or another international Fistball event?
Absolutely! I think it would have been a great experience for the U18 national teams to play a World Championship in New Zealand. It’s a great country with sport-loving, friendly people. I hope that a World Championship will be held in New Zealand soon.

The New Zealand selection teams dominated the Pacific Championships in Australia last October – not only in the men’s, but also in the women’s competition. What distinguishes these teams, which only appeared internationally a few years ago?
From my point of view, it is the willpower, the team spirit and the interest to always learn something new as well as the passion for the sport of Fistball.

Will you go to the World Championships in Mannheim with the NZ men as part of the coaching team?
That is the plan. The NZ team wants to continue to improve internationally and qualify for the 2025 World Games in China if possible. After an 11th place finish in Winterthur in 2019, they want to achieve more in Mannheim.
Our training trip should have laid the foundation for that!

Interview by Roger Willen

Successful graduates of the Women’s International Referee Course

Tuesday December 13th, 2022 Media Team

This year the first women’s-only international fistball referee course was held in the Pan-American region by PAFA president and member of the IFA Referee Commission Gastão Englert. The program started with virtual sessions in April 2022 and now the first participants finished the practical evaluation. The objective is to provide a professional fistball referee course only for women which is based on theoretical training, as learning process, as well as on a practical formal evaluation. “The most important part of this course is the practical evaluation, so the referees have to show their skills on the field. We want to have highly qualified international referees and therefore it’s important to establish this two-stage education program.”, is Englert emphasizing the value of the practical part.

New female international referees from Brazil and Chile
With Mariana Scherer Eltz (Brazil) and Florencia Schwaner (Chile) the program is finishing this year with two women being approved as International Fistball Referee. “I am very happy that both candidates finished the practical evaluation with over 90 %. Mariana and Florencia are now part of the International Fistball Referee crew and willing for future challengers.”, says head of the referee course Gastão Englert. “In 2023 the program will surely continue and there are already more women interested to get the evaluation for International referee.” The main objective for this first phase is: The next 2023 women’s-only international referee course in Europe and Pan-America and for the Women’s World Championship 2024 IFA is looking to have only women as first and second referees in the competition.

To get to know the first ever female International Fistball Referees from Pan-American we provide a short portrait of them.

Mariana Scherer Eltz (19)
Sociedade Ginástica Novo Hamburgo, Brazil

What was your motivation to become an international referee?
My motivation to become an international referee is to participate in high level Fistball events all around the world. I want to improve my referee skills and also, to be able to meet new people while being involved in something that I really love is an amazing opportunity. And of course it’s very important to have more woman acting as Fistball referees, that was one of my biggest thoughts while doing the course.

What is the biggest difference between being on the fistball court as a player and as referee?
Both parts, players and referees have equally importance to guarantee a good match. I think the only difference is that when I am playing, I have to be committed only to my teammates and coaches. When being on court as a referee, I need to be committed to all people involved: both teams, the spectators, and of course the others referees and linesmen. So I’d say that the overall responsibility as referee is much higher.

Florencia Schwaner (19)
Club Manquehue, Chile

What was your motivation to become an international referee?
So honestly my biggest motivation was to keep on being able to be part of the world-wide fistball community despite the fact that I’m not playing tournaments anymore because of my university obligations. I also wanted to be part of more female representation and equality in our sport. I think it is important to include women in every aspect.

What is the biggest difference between being on the fistball court as a player and as referee?
I think one of the main differences between being a player and a referee is how you approach the game. So for example, as a player the game is much more of an emotional roller-coaster and you stay concentrated in how you and your team is playing and what you need to do to improve in order to win. Meanwhile being a referee you got to stay calm and be really focused to see every detail there could be. It’s very different on the emotional aspect of the game.

How to get involved yourself?
First of all everyone can become an International Fistball Referee. If you are interested to be part of the next Women’s-Only International Referee Course (WOIRC) here are some important prerequisites, that applicants should fulfill: highest national fistball referee level in your country and knowledge of the English language. The whole process of evaluation and communication will be held in English. In 2023 we’ll have the second “season” of the WOIRC. It would be a pleasure for the IFA Referee Commission to have more women interested in being part of the International Referee crew.

Our goal?
In the WWC in 2024 to have only women as main referees. Let’s fight together! For further information please contact head of the program Gastão Englert: g.englert@ifa-fistball.com
More details about this course will be published soon

LIVE: Day 5 – The World Games 2022

Thursday July 14th, 2022 Media Team

17:00

Germany strikes again!
For the third time in a row Germany wins the men’s gold medal at the World Games. The German team dominated the tournament once again. In the final Switzerland played a good match but couldn’t uphold their performance the whole durance of the match. Still the Swiss team played a great World Games tournament and earned another silver medal after their women’s team.

15:00

Germany is the first ever women’s World Games Champion!
Germany is the first ever women’s World Games Champion!
In a thrilling match, Switzerland started as a rocket. The Swiss team dominated the first two sets but then Germany came back and turned the game in their favour. Both teams played high class fistball showing off how great of a sport fistball is. In a day full of amazing matches, this game fit right in.

13:30

Brazil wins dramatic bronze medal match!
In a thrilling game against Austria, Brazil takes the win. Only five balls were played before the game had to be delayed due to lightning in the nearby area. After an almost 3 hour long break, the match was continued. And what a match it was! The spectators in Birmingham saw a bronze medal match full of spectacular rallies.
Throughout the game both teams were going head to head, with no telling who would win. In the end, Brazil pulled through, winning with 3:2.

09:00

Italy takes fifth place at The World Games 2022!
With a solid performance the Italian team takes the victory over Chile in the placement match for the fifth place. Italy took the lead in every set leaving the Chileans little place to show off their skills.

Day 4 – The World Games 2022

Wednesday July 13th, 2022 Media Team

11:45

Brazil wins the Bronze Medal!

Austria started into the game with a bang winning the first set 11:4. The following sets Brazil stepped up their game on all positions winning the game with a clear 3:1. So the first ever awarded medal for women’s fistball at The World Games goes to Brazil. Congratulations to Punhobol Brasil!

10:30

Tournament favourite Germany proceeds to the final!
In the semi final between Austria and Germany the Germans put a lot of pressure on their opponents. Austria kept up well over the first two sets. But then the German express started off again and they turned the game in their favour.

09:15

What a thrilling match – Switzerland beats Brazil in the semi final!

Switzerland is the first team qualified for the gold medal match at the World Games 2022 in Birmingham. Throughout the whole match, the Swiss team played their A-Game on all positions. Brazil kept up for most of the game, but lost their pace in the 5th set. Switzerland never faltered and came out victoriously.

08:00

Argentina secures 7th place!

In a tight match against host country USA the South Americans emerge victorious. The US team gave their all but ultimately team Argentina had the stronger defense resulting in a win for their team.

LIVE: Day 3 – The World Games 2022

Tuesday July 12th, 2022 Media Team

19:00

Austria completes the semi final teams
In the last match of Day 3 at The World Games, Austria defeats the home team USA 3:0. The Austrians start off very well whilst the Americans find their game just after two sets. What follows was a very close third set with the better end for Austria.

17:45

Germany sweeps Argentina away and proceed to the semi final
In a very clear match Argentina has nothing to oppose to the German team. After just 30 minutes the game was over.

16:30

Brazil follows into the semi finals

After a surprising set win of Italy, Brazil stepped up their game and secured the following sets. So Brazil follows Switzerland into the semi finals.

15:15

Switzerland secures semi final with a victory against Chile
With a clear win over Chile the Swiss team is the first team to secure the semi final. The chilean team fought hard but could not keep the pace up with Switzerland.

13:45

Tight match – New Zealand finishes 5th – USA 6th
The spectators saw a match on eye level between the home team and the kiwis. The winner was unclear for a long time of the match. In the final phase team New Zealand had a better momentum and took the win.

12:00

Underdog Switzerland beats Brazil and proceeds to the final

From the very first second of the game onwards Switzerland played a very strong and error free match. They proved they deserve to play in the Final of The World Games. At the same time the Brazilian team didn’t find its pace and had difficulties to crack the strong Swiss defense. This is definitely the surprise of the tournament so far!

10:00

Germany proceeds to the final after a nerve wracking semifinal victory over Austria

In a top quality game Austria started off as a rocket and went in the lead by 2:1. But Germany came back strong and fought back. The reigning World Champions kept cool and proceed to the finals.

Day 2 – The World Games 2022

Monday July 11th, 2022 Media Team

19:30

Match of the day goes to Brazil

In the last match of Day 2 the big crowd at Birmingham Southern College saw a match full of well executed rallies between Germany and Brazil. In the end Brazil showed more passion and will to win the game as Germany struggled to crack the Brazilian defense.

18:15

Austria overcomes Switzerland

In a tight match Austria made the big points and took away the victory. Switzerland kept up really well but was not awarded for the hard fight.

17:00

Brazil overtakes Austria in the group phase

While Austria doesn’t find it’s way into the match, Brazil shows off a great performance. The result is a clear win for the South Americans.

12:30

Italy wins over USA with a solid performance

Even though the US team fought hard the fight was not rewarded with a set win. The italians displayed their experience all over the match with a controlled, mistake free performance.

11:15

Reigning Champion Germany defeats young Swiss team in preliminary round

Even though Switzerland started off as a rocket into the first set and made the Germans sweat, the current world champions returned into the game as it continued. So Germany also wins their second match in Birmingham.

10:00

South American showdown – Chile beats Argentina in preliminary round

In the first match of Day 2 at The World Games Chile defeats Argentina in a tight match. Both teams started off very well and went through a tough fight. In the third set Argentina lost the thread, Chile took the chance and secured their 3:0 win.

Day 1 – The World Games 2022

Sunday July 10th, 2022 Media Team

19:30

Brazil wins in a thrilling match

Surprising match from USA as they win a set against favorite Brazil. Even though the home team had a strong second set victory, they weren’t able to carry the momentum for the rest of the match.

18:15

Switzerland outlasts Argentina
After a slow start for the Swiss men the team was able to pull off a 3:0 victory in their first match. Argentina capitalized on early Swiss mistakes but was unable to shut the door in the first set.

16:45

Team Brazil enters The World Games with a victory

A sovereign start into The World Games for the Brazilian equipe. The south americans tested various different line ups. New Zealand also showed a great team spirit in their second match of the day. With a small number of unforced errors the kiwis improved over the durance of the match.

15:30

Austria defeats the home team USA

The US team showed some strong moments against Austria but throughout the game Austria obtained control. After about 30 minutes the Europeans left the steaming hot court victoriously.

14:00

Austria beats Italy in European show off

With the temperature getting hotter by the minute the Austrians start into the tournament with a solid performance. Italy couldn’t quite get on Austria’s level over the whole durance of the set.

12:45

Germany defeats Chile after close first set

After Chile had a good start Germany increased their pace. So the reigning World Games champions start the tournament with a victory.

During the game the sky is clearing up and it gets hotter and hotter in Birmingham.

11:15

Germany beats New Zealand in the preliminary round
The reigning World Champions from Germany start strong in the tournament against the underdogs from New Zealand. The kiwis played a great match and showed off their skills to the international fistball fans as well.

10:00

Switzerland sweeps USA 3:0 in the first match of the Games in Birmingham
A historic moment. For the first time in history a women’s match is played at The World Games.
The home team from the US is playing Switzerland. The stands are already really packed for this very first match of the day. A crowd of more than 400 fans cheers for their teams. In the end Switzerland defeats the US by 3:0.

Birmingham ready to host The World Games 2022

Saturday July 9th, 2022 Media Team

Fistball players from all over the world are gathering in Birmingham, Alabama in the USA to play The World Games 2022. The matches are taking place on the soccer fields at Birmingham Southern College from July 10-14. For the first time in fistball history women and men are participating at The World Games. Even though fistball was introduced to The World Games in 1985 at The World Games in London, female fistball has never been part of the games so far.
6 women’s teams and 8 men’s teams fight for the fiercely contested medals on 2 courts. In the women’s competition Austria, Brazil, Germany, New Zealand, Switzerland and the host nation USA participate. In the men’s competition Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Chile, Germany, Italy, Switzerland and USA play for gold.
The German men’s team is the reigning World Games champion. They defeated Switzerland in a thrilling final in Wroclaw, Poland in 2017. As the current World Champion the German women’s team is the top favourite for the women’s competition.

The preliminary round is played in two groups – A and B – as best of 5 sets for women and men. After the preliminary round on July 12th the women’s semi-finals are held where each group winner plays the second of the other group and the teams that take the third place play for the 5th rank (all matches best of 5 as well). Men’s preliminary round lasts until July 12th, so the semifinals are played one day later as well as the ranking game for the 7th rank.
The final day of the women’s competition is July 13 (Final+P3), for men it’s July 14th (Finals + P5). The medals are awarded right after the finals for both women and men.

Spectators from all over the world can expect tight matches at very hot temperatures in Birmingham (around 35°C/95°F – humidity 51% –> feels like over 40°C/104°F). The matches will be livestreamed on fistball.tv, be aware of the time shift! The tournament kicks off on July 10 at 10am Birmingham time (GMT-5), which means a time shift of f.e. 7 hours to Berlin (CEST/MESZ) where it’s 5pm when the matches start.

The Organisation Committee is looking forward to the upcoming games and hopes for a tournament free of injuries!