The International Fistball Association (IFA) was founded on January 30, 1960 and has had six presidents since then, each of whom has made significant contributions to the development of Fistball:
Erich Petschnek (Austria, 1960-1982): As the first IFA President Petschnek laid the foundation for the international organization of Fistball. Under his leadership, the first Men’s World Championships were held in Austria in 1968.
Hans Beutler (Switzerland, 1982-1986): Beutler took over the office in 1982 and continued the internationalization of the sport. During his term of office, Fistball was included in The World Games for the first time in 1985.
Dr. Hans Kollmann (Austria, 1986-1995): Kollmann led the IFA through a period of growth. In 1990, the federation celebrated its 30th anniversary, and the number of nations participating in world championships reached a new record of 11.
Ernesto Dohnalek (Argentina, 1995-2011): As the first president from South America, Dohnalek promoted the global spread of Fistball. In 1994, the first Women’s World Championship was held in Buenos Aires, a milestone for women’s Fistball.
Karl Weiß (Austria, 2011–2019): Weiß advocated for the recognition of the IFA by the IOC and expanded the IFA’s membership from 27 to 61 nations.
Jörn Verleger (Germany, since 2019): Verleger promotes the global presence of Fistball and is committed to sustainability in sports. Under his leadership, the 2023 Men’s World Championship was awarded to Mannheim, where Gold Medal matches was held in an indoor arena on natural grass for the first time.
Each of these presidents has contributed significantly to the development and internationalization of Fistball.