Interview with Ines Mayer, Chair of the IFA Athletes’ Commission

The IFA Communications Commission team spoke to Ines Mayer, Chair of the IFA Athletes’ Commission, regarding her goals as representative of the athletes.

• Name: Ines Mayer
• Age: 26
• Club: FBC ABAU Linz Urfahr
• Former Clubs: –
• National Team: AUT
• International Games for the AUT: 43
• Playing Position: Attack
• Height: 1.78m
• Successes:
o 2011, 2012, 2013 European Champion
o 2009 Youth World Champion
o 2009, 2015, 2016 Austrian Champion

Chair of the Athletes' Commission - Ines Mayer (AUT)
Chair of the Athletes’ Commission – Ines Mayer (AUT), Picture: Stefan Gusenleitner

How did you get involved with fistball?
As my mother was also infected by the fistball-fever so I grew up with the sport and played my first match with almost 6 years. Two of my first teammates are still playing with me now. Fistball has always been part of my life and I’m sure it always will be.

Could you please describe what fascinates you about fistball?
Of course, the best of fistball is the game itself. I like the idea of the game, I love playing it and I‘m glad to be part of a team that shares this passion. Another big point for me which makes this sport so fascinating is the social fistball network in my club, in my nation and all over the world. It is an incredibly beautiful feeling to be part of the fistball community.

What are your goals as representative of the athletes?
In every system where so many people are involved exist different interests, different needs and requests. Complex decisions have to be made to enable a positive development of the sport. In this process, I see my goal to represent the view of the athletes and to bring the ideas of the players to the IFA board.

What do you expect for the international development of fistball?
I notice a fresh drive in the international fistball development. There are several renovations concerning rules, the new condition of the World Tour, grandiose events in recent years and so on. I hope that this development will continue and I like to contribute personally.