[Source: SportAccord] SportAccord is proud to announce H.E. Ban Ki-moon will deliver the Opening Welcome Address at the SportAccord Summit on Wednesday 8 May 2019 at 11.00hrs in Gold Coast Australia, as well as take part in the United Through Sports Youth Conference.
Former United Nations (UN) Secretary General and former South Korean Foreign Minister, championed the world’s vulnerable by putting sustainable development, climate change, and gender equality at the top of the UN agenda.
“I, as an Honorary president of 2019 Chungju World Martial Arts Masterships, a Chairperson of IOC Ethics Commission and the 8th Secretary General of the United Nations, am very pleased to participate in 2019 SportAccord, which will be held in Gold Coast. Of 2019 SportAccord programs,
SportAccord Summit will be an important stage to share the knowledge and information on the topic of “The Future of Big Data and Analytics” among leaders in the sporting world. I hope all participants and colleagues of 2019 SportAccord endeavor to promote sport for development and peace in the world through the SportAccord Summit. Thank you!”
Sporting leaders and delegates represented at the highest levels will gather at the SportAccord World Sport & Business Summit in Gold Coast for a week of networking and key meetings, and hear the latest from around 100 subject matter experts involved in this year’s conference programme.
Commenting on the participation of H. E. Ban Ki-moon, Nis Hatt, Managing Director of SportAccord said: “It is an absolute pleasure and honour to be welcoming His Excellency Mr Ban Ki-moon to the SportAccord Summit 2019. His vision, leadership and accomplishments over the years have made a significant impact around the world. His leadership continues to inspire as one of the world’s top global thinkers. We look forward with anticipation to hear what His Excellency will impart to the international sports community during his Welcome Address at this year’s SportAccord Summit in Gold Coast.”
Delegates can register and hear first-hand from a stellar line-up of Summit speakers and panellists, as well as take part in the newly formed interactive Summit Hub sessions planned for Day 2 of the SportAccord Summit. Each hub (5 in total) will be led by a Summit speaker, where attendees will be able to discuss the Summit conference sessions from Day 1 in more detail with peers.
H.E. Ban Ki-moon will also speak at this year’s United Through Youth Opening Conference taking place 7 May 2019 during SportAccord and forms part of the Sports Festival hosted by United Through Sports. The events embrace a number of key drivers which have become part of the DNA for United Through Sports. These comprise: inclusivity; unity in diversity; the future, our youth; non-discrimination; gender quality; providing opportunities for the youth via sport; building alliances to give back.
The Sports Festival was formed to make a real difference to the lives of countless children, giving them a chance to showcase their talents regardless of ability or life circumstances. This year’s Sports Festival is under the patronage of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
With the full support of the IOC and the Queensland government, around 5,000 children from 170 schools are set to take part in the Sports Festival (7 – 10 May 2019). Children will have the opportunity to try as many sports as they wish (around 60 sports federations are involved including well-known athletes and celebrities). Morning programmes, a mix of promoting an active lifestyle and education, will be exclusively for the youth of Australia, and doors will be opened to the general public for the afternoon and evening sessions.
The Festival Opening Ceremony involves over 200 youth with a history-making performance planned. The ceremony promises to be an eye-opening, educational and action-packed extravaganza with many exclusives and ‘firsts’ being revealed from the moment the Sports Festival begins with the entire Opening Ceremony also performed in ‘sign’.
To benefit from these exclusive opportunities, organisations can register for SportAccord and take advantage of the full conference programme and all that the Sports Festival has to offer.
To become an Exhibitor or Partner contact the sales team: sales@sportaccord.com or phone +41 21 612 3070. To register as a delegate and watch past SportAccord footage visit www.sportaccord.sport.
Follow developments and updates via Twitter @sportaccord using #SA2019, or keep up-to-date via LinkedIn and Facebook.
Tag: SportAccord
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H.E. Ban Ki-moon to open the Summit at SportAccord In Gold Coast
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Five returning Bronze Partners confirmed for SportAccord 2019
[Source: SportAccord] SportAccord is delighted to confirm five Bronze Partners for the Gold Coast edition of the World Sport & Business Summit set to take place from 5 – 10 May 2019. This year’s Bronze Partners have all renewed their partnerships for SportAccord 2019 and include: Chuncheongbuk-do Province, Commonwealth Games Federation, the Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance (CSTA), the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), and Visit Victoria from Australia.
SportAccord brings together international sports federations, cities and regions, and top decision-makers from the global sports community. Over 50% of those attending use the World Sport & Business Summit platform to share breaking news, or drive sporting initiatives and key strategies.
Chuncheongbuk-do Province is gaining attention as a centre for martial art. The Province has international organisations related to martial art such as International Center of Martial Art (UNESCO-ICM), World Martial Arts Union (WoMAU), and World Martial Arts Mastership Committee (WMC). The 2019 World Martial Arts Masterships (August 30 to September 6), approved by the Korean government, will be held in Chungju City, Chungcheongbuk-do Province under the patronage of GAISF.
The Commonwealth Games Federation’s most recent event on Gold Coast was billed as the “Games of Firsts” – historic first-ever medals for five Commonwealth islands and states; an equal number of medals for women and men for the first-time at a global multi-sport Games; and a ground-breaking Reconciliation Action Plan to acknowledge, respect and support Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander communities. The next Commonwealth Games will take place in Birmingham, England from 27 July to 7 August 2022.
The Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance is a non-governmental, member-based, capacity building organisation promoting sport tourism as a grassroots economic development initiative at the community level. The CSTA services over 500 members across Canada, including 150 municipalities, 300 national and provincial sport, multi-sport and major games organisations and a variety of other sport and tourism industry partners. Sport tourism is the fastest growing segment of the tourism industry in Canada with approximately $6.8 billion in annual spending by domestic and international visitors. Once again, Team Canada will be hosting their popular annual cocktail evening on Wednesday 8 May, Pool side at The Star Grand, (official Headquarter hotel for SportAccord).
The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) is the world governing body for basketball. It is an independent association formed by 213 National Basketball Federations throughout the world and recognised as the sole competent authority in basketball by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). FIBA are the official sponsor of the SportAccord 2019 pen.
Visit Victoria is the primary tourism and events company for the State of Victoria in Australia. Its primary objective is to build Melbourne and Victoria into Australia’s number one tourism destination by delivering strong and sustainable growth across priority markets. Since Visit Victoria’s establishment, the region has hosted more than 450 business events, 70 major events and over 180 regional events.
Commenting on the Bronze partnerships, Nis Hatt, Managing Director, SportAccord said:
“We are delighted to welcome back our Bronze Partners for this year’s edition of SportAccord in Gold Coast, all of whom have been partners for several years. We appreciate their continued involvement, support and loyalty and wish them all the very best at the 17th edition of the World Sport & Business Summit.”
SportAccord enables attendees to enjoy multiple networking events and access to 50+ conference sessions. The high-profile event gives organisations the opportunity to increase their visibility by becoming a Partner. Organisations can find out more about becoming involved in Gold Coast by taking a look at this year’s recently published interactive Preview e-magazine and contact sales@sportaccord.sport.
Follow developments and updates via Twitter @sportaccord using #SA2019, or keep up-to-date via LinkedIn and Facebook. -
SportAccord confirms ‘exceptional’ silver partners for Gold Coast edition
[Source: SportAccord] SportAccord is delighted to confirm its Silver Partners Edmonton Events, EventScotland and Beijing Olympic City Development Association (BODA) for the 17th edition of the World Sport & Business Summit set to take place from 5 – 10 May 2019 in Gold Coast, Australia, home to last year’s Commonwealth Games.
SportAccord brings together international sports federations, cities and regions, and top decision-makers from the global sports community. Over 50% of those attending use the World Sport & Business Summit platform to share breaking news, or drive sporting initiatives and key strategies.
With less than a month away before SportAccord begins, organisations who still want to be involved can take advantage of an exclusive offer (CHF 3,750) and experience the benefits of attending a high profile event. By applying code EO2019 (available for a limited time only) during registration, secures this investment. This includes a delegate pass, 5-nights accommodation and breakfast, not to mention the opportunity to meet and discuss future sporting opportunities and events with the Silver Partners.
EventScotland has a strong track record and international reputation for hosting major cultural, business and sporting events and has been a keen supporter and partner of SportAccord over the years. Through the work of EventScotland and partners, Scotland will host a number of world-class events in the coming years, including the 2019 Solheim Cup, Euro 2020 – also the 60th anniversary of the European Championship competition – with Glasgow as one of the 12 host cities, and the recently secured inaugural 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships. As in previous years, EventScotland are also sponsoring the official notepad used at SportAccord. Meet the EventScotland team at Stand 50.
Edmonton Events have also renewed their partnership with SportAccord and will sponsor the ‘Edmonton Events Zen Zone’ featuring a Reef within the Exhibition Hall, enabling delegates to take a few moments to relax from their busy schedules. Edmonton has a reputation for hosting a wide range of major events from the ITU World Triathlon Final and IIHF Ice Hockey World Junior Championships, to extreme events like the FISE World Series and Red Bull Crashed Ice. A spirited city that loves sports and radiates culture, its sporting pulse is palpable to visitors and fans alike. Meet Edmonton Events at Stand 64.
Beijing Olympic City Development Association (BODA) was set up in August 2009 to carry forward the Olympic spirit. Its organisation encourages the development of public welfare relating to the Olympic culture, education, sports, youth and citizen involvement, and conducts sport-related exchanges as part of the Olympic movement. Beijing will be host to SportAccord 2020, and BODA will become the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 18th edition. BODA are sponsoring The Recharge Zone which features The Outback – this year’s destination theme for Tourism and Events Queensland. Meet BODA at Stand 54.
Commenting on the silver partnerships, Nis Hatt, Managing Director, SportAccord said:
“We are delighted to welcome the return of Edmonton Events and EventScotland as Silver Partners for the 17th edition of the SportAccord World Sport & Business Summit and heartily appreciate their continued involvement, support and loyalty to the event.
“We are also honoured to welcome BODA onboard this year as a Silver Partner and look forward to working with them on the 18th edition of SportAccord, scheduled to take place in Beijing from 19 – 24 April 2020.
“Our Silver Partners are exceptional and we wish them the very best for SportAccord in Gold Coast.”
SportAccord enables attendees to enjoy multiple networking events and access to 50+ conference sessions. The high-profile event gives organisations the opportunity to increase their visibility by becoming a Partner. Organisations can learn more about the unique benefits of becoming a partner via Daily Highlights and contact sales@sportaccord.sport to become involved.
Follow developments and updates via Twitter @sportaccord using #SA2019, or keep up-to-date via LinkedIn and Facebook. -
Scottish events industry continues to shine on the world stage thanks to SportAccord
[Source: EventScotland] It has been another outstanding 12 months for EventScotland and the Scottish events and festivals sector since last year’s SportAccord Conference.
Our continued record in successfully attracting and delivering some of the world’s biggest events alongside our enviable portfolio of annual events and festivals reaffirms Scotland’s reputation as a world-leading events destination.
Among the highlights in 2018 was the successful delivery of the inaugural European Championships, which saw Glasgow and Scotland provide 11 days of sporting and cultural action with co-hosts Berlin.
The event was hugely popular with viewers throughout the continent. 567 million hours of action was viewed across 10 key national markets over 10 days of broadcasting, while in Glasgow more than 500,000 people attended a sports session, a Festival 2018 offering or visited the hugely popular live sites at George Square and Glasgow Green
The successful delivery of the event, which surpassed all expectations, showed what can be achieved when you are brave, ambitious and innovative.
Summer 2018 was also undoubtedly the biggest and best year for golf events in Scotland. There were no fewer than nine top-class golf events taking place across Scotland, featuring not only the biggest names from the men’s and women’s game but also the rising stars of the future and the legends of yesteryear.
Alongside the annual Scottish Open and Ladies Scottish Open, the history making European Golf Team Championships as part of Glasgow 2018, and Senior Open Championship, The 147th Open at Carnoustie was undoubtedly the highlight of Scotland’s golfing summer. The Open attracted a record 172,000 fans, delivering an economic impact of £69 million according to the study by Sheffield Hallam University’s Sport Industry Research Centre.
Scotland also benefited from £51 million in destination marketing activity thanks to The Open being broadcast on television to more than 600 million households in 193 countries worldwide.
The success of our golf portfolio confirms Scotland’s reputation as, the Home of Golf and as we look ahead to The 2019 Solheim Cup, the biggest event in women’s golf, at Gleneagles this September, it continues to be the envy of countries around the world.
The last 12 months have also seen Scotland secure the rights to four international events over the next four years, most notably the inaugural UCI Cycling World Championships in 2023. It, together with the IFSC European Championships 2019 for Lead and Speed, the Sprint World Orienteering Championships 2022, and the 2023 Island Games, join a strong pipeline of events in the coming years, including the UEFA EURO 2020, in which Glasgow will be one of 12 cities who will host the tournament to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Championship. All these events will continue to provide the opportunities to showcase Scotland’s expertise in delivering major international events.
Paul Bush OBE, Director of Events, said: “It has been another outstanding 12 months for EventScotland and the Scottish events and festivals sector. Together we have continued to build on our reputation as a world-leader in event delivery by pushing the boundaries and not being afraid to take on new challenges.
“The successful delivery of the 2018 European Championships along with securing a competition of such global magnitude as the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships reinforces Scotland’s position as the perfect stage for events and one of the world’s leading sports destinations.
“All this success wouldn’t be possible without SportAccord. The Conference plays a hugely important role in helping us build and maintain positive relationships with rights-holders and International Federations. It has allowed us to meet and network with key decision-makers to both understand their ambitions for their events while showcasing our experience and expertise, and is often the starting place for our bids.”
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Raffaele Chiulli unanimously elected President of SportAccord
[Source: SportAccord] SportAccord is delighted to confirm Raffaele Chiulli was unanimously elected President of SportAccord at the SportAccord General Assembly which took place on Wednesday 8 May 2019 in Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.
Dr Chiulli is President of UIM (International Powerboating Federation), President of ARISF (Association of IOC Recognised International Sports Federations) and leader of GAISF (Global Association of International Sports Federations).
Commenting on his new appointment as President of SportAccord, Dr Raffaele Chiulli said:
“I am proud to have been unanimously elected as SportAccord President.
“Sport has never been more relevant as a means of bringing people together around the values of inspiration, unity and respect. I am very excited by the scope for us to do more really valuable work in the future.
“SportAccord is a powerful brand, going from strength to strength and widely known as the place to connect. It is a great platform for learning and sharing, which brings together International Federations and the wider sports world. And our gathering here in Gold Coast will be one of the biggest and most relevant of the year.
“SportAccord includes the United Through Sports festival, which brings sport directly to youth and local communities, ensuring a positive social legacy for our events. This year’s edition featured IOC President Thomas Bach, H.E. Ban Ki-moon, eighth Secretary General of the United Nations, HRH Prince Feisal of Jordan, and other leaders of sport and civil society, alongside more than 250 children and young people representing 150 schools throughout Queensland.
“This year we launch SportAccord regional conventions starting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in December and we can look forward to much more in the future.”
SportAccord focuses on driving positive change internationally and dedicated to engaging and connecting; international federations, rights holders, organising committees, cities, press and media, businesses and other organisations involved in the development of sport. -
New President Raffaele Chiulli underlines the value of SportAccord as crucial platform for sport
[Source: SportAccord] New President Raffaele Chiulli of SportAccord and GAISF hailed the successful Gold Coast edition of SportAccord and the many accomplishments achieved during an action-packed week, was down to the ‘energetic participation’ of everyone involved in the 17th edition of SportAccord. President Chiulli went on to say:
“The success of SportAccord 2019 proves the importance and commitment of our organisation to our stakeholders and members, delegates, exhibitors and partners involved in the sport landscape. SportAccord will continue to adapt to the needs of our delegates and provide a platform that allows us to gather and move forward on the activities and collaborations crucial to the development of our sports, athletes and fans, ensuring a voice for everyone.”
Held in the Oceania region for the first time, SportAccord 2019 followed hot on the heels of the XXI Commonwealth Games in the Gold Coast – billed as the Games of Firsts.
The SportAccord Review magazine looks back at some of the many highlights that took place across the event.
Delegates were treated to a traditional Aussie welcome when SportAccord 2019 was officially launched with an Opening Ceremony welcoming a global gathering to include: 1700 delegates from 830+ organisations, including 109 international sports federations, 176 cities and regions, and over 80 nationalities present.
At the annual General Assembly Raffaele Chiulli was unanimously elected as President of the Global Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF) at SportAccord. President Chiulli’s ‘Work Programme’ for GAISF comprises 4 pillars, aimed at addressing the needs of its members and the wider sports movement, and building on the services it offers.
H. E. Ban Ki-moon, 8th Secretary General of the United Nations, Chairman of the IOC Ethics Commission and Honorary President of 2019 Chungju World Martial Arts Masterships, delivered the Welcome Address at the SportAccord Summit conference, and highlighted the ‘transformative power of sport’ as well as the importance of big data and analytics. Commenting to The Daily, Mr Ban said: “SportAccord can play an important role in solving the problems and developing and promoting a sporting community through Conferences, Summits, Sports Festivals and other events, helping to disseminate the values of sport and a healthy community to people worldwide.”
The SportAccord Summit theme focused on ‘The Future of Big Data and Analytics’ with technology and learning being the key focus this year. Delegates heard how technology can influence ‘the spirit of sport’, and IFs were encouraged to forge brand partnerships and collaborate on big data, this being instrumental in helping to drive fan engagement.
The SportAccord Conference programme saw nearly 100 speakers participating in the event across: the Summit, LawAccord, HealthAccord, CityAccord, and MediaAccord.
Following its debut in Bangkok, the 3-day SportAccord United Through Sports Festival took place in Kurrawa Park in the Gold Coast, and enabled 5,000 children to try around 60 different sports with federations. The United Through Sports Youth Conference highlighted the need to continue to build on the outstanding legacy from Bangkok, with several projects being identified during the SportAccord Sports Festival in the Gold Coast.
The SportAccord event platform was used by World Lacrosse, the global governing body, to unveil its new name, logo and brand. Other exclusives at SportAccord came from: UK Sport confirming London will host the World Skate Street League Skateboarding World Championships and Birmingham will host The World Trampoline Championships in 2023; Gracenote offered its first look at the virtual medal table forecast for Tokyo 2020; and the Commonwealth Games Federation returned to meet representatives from the 2018 Games, to continue to learn from their experiences, in preparation for the best possible Games for Birmingham and the West Midlands.
The organisers of the Gold Coast’s biennial Pan Pacific Masters Games used the SportAccord platform to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the team behind the Kansai 2021 World Masters Games in Japan.
The World Academy of Sport released research findings on the challenges for student-athletes maintaining a dual career; and the International University Sports Federation (FISU) and the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) announced Moscow will host the first University World Powerlifting Championship. IPF also attracted many delegates to their exhibition stand to test their strength, including IF Presidents and dignitaries including H. E. Ban Ki-moon.
At the International World Games Association’s (IWGA) General Assembly during SportAccord, the Chinese city of Chengdu was confirmed as host of The World Games 2025. “By signing a contract with one of the most forward-looking and dynamic cities in China, we have signalled our arrival as a major power in international sport,” IWGA President José Perurena told The Daily.
At other General Assemblies, AIOWF praised the 2026 presentations given by both city candidates, Stockholm-Åre (Sweden) and Milan-Cortina (Italy) via video at SportAccord 2019, and acknowledged the progress being made for the 2022 Olympic Winter Games in Beijing.
ASOIF took the opportunity to discuss their recently published report, ‘Vision for the Future of Sports 2019 to 2040’, which sets out 10 recommendations under the themes of governance and entrepreneurialism. ASOIF’s President Francesco Ricci Bitti also advised IFs to use the SportAccord platform to continue discussions with the Tokyo 2020 delegation.
At the AIMS General Assembly, President Stephan Fox’s continuing role as the Alliance’s representative on the GAISF Council was confirmed. Stephan Fox is also the Vice President of GAISF, and a leading supporter of the SportAccord United Through Sports Festival – one of the key highlights of SportAccord.
More high-level meetings took place including the ARISF General Assembly, where President Raffaele Chiulli confirmed the presence of President Bach from the IOC was ‘a very strong sign of his appreciation for what ARISF members are doing’.
Raffaele Chiulli was also confirmed President of SportAccord at its General Assembly.
Looking forwards to future events, in an exclusive interview with iSportconnect, Raffaele Chiulli shared his vision for the expansion of SportAccord into regional saying ‘relevance is the aim’. Regional SportAccord Pan America will take place for the first time, from 10 to 12 December 2019 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA.
The Pan American sports business event will bring together around 500 delegates from 400 organisations, representing over 30 cities and regions, over 15 industry sectors and more than 40 international and regional sports federations. Event accreditation is priced at USD $1,500 and organisations who would like to take part can register here for Regional SportAccord Pan America 2019.
The 18th edition of SportAccord will return to Beijing, China from 19 – 24 April 2020. The key decision makers in sport will gather at the China National Convention Center for a week of networking and meetings. Organisations can register and take advantage of the myriad opportunities, high-profile events and social occasions being organised for SportAccord Beijing.
To take part in either event, organisations can register online or contact the sales team to become an exhibitor or partner.
Follow developments and updates via Twitter @sportaccord, or keep up-to-date via LinkedIn and Facebook. -
EXCLUSIVE: “Continually evolve and be innovative” – Sarah Lewis OBE
Host City: Host City 2019 takes place in Glasgow on 26-27 November, with theme of “Innovate; Reformulate; Co-Create”, in recognition of the fact that many major events are evolving and emerging through creative partnerships. To what extent are FIS and other Winter IFs innovating, reformulating and co-creating events?
Sarah Lewis: Collaborating with other stakeholders for the FIS major events, namely the World Championships, is fundamental to utilise the respective capacities to deliver the best possible event. We aim to continually evolve and be innovative, whereby it fundamental to respect the sport and ensure its DNA remains intact.
Partnership is normal practice for major FIS events, both within the FIS disciplines as well as with other stakeholders. For example, the three Nordic disciplines of Cross-Country Skiing, Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined are staged as one Nordic Event that provides permanent action. Since the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games, Freestyle Ski and Snowboard are combined at major events and increasingly as part of the FIS World Cup series, in order to maximise the many synergies with the venues and operations.
I’m looking forward to interesting exchanges and discussions at Host City on innovating, reformulating and co-creating events where many different event stakeholders can contribute their own and shared perspectives.
Host City: The theme of SportAccord 2019 was “The Future of Big Data and Analytics”. What opportunities do you see from big data and analytics in skiing and other winter sports events?
Sarah Lewis: The main and important opportunity is to establish a direct online relationship and interaction with the 15 million online followers of the FIS disciplines, which is a key asset for the development of digital activities as well as sponsorship opportunities. Our objective at FIS is to create a digital ecosystem to serve viewers and fans, which will open up new commercial opportunities for the stakeholders.
Host City: What were your impressions of Gold Coast and Queensland as a host destination, as they consider applying to host the 2032 Summer Olympic Games?
Sarah Lewis: Just as well you specified Summer Games, as the likelihood for the Winter edition would be tricky even with a very “New Norm” concept! The Commonwealth Games in 2018 have provided an excellent basis for future Olympic Games and during SportAccord there was certainly great enthusiasm expressed from the sports leadership, political authorities and tourism.
Host City: The growth of the sports industry in China is reflected by the growing number of conventions taking place there – with World Winter Sports Expo, Host City Asia and now SportAccord taking place in Beijing. What impact do you think the upcoming 2022 Winter Olympic Games is having on the growth of winter sports in China?
Sarah Lewis: The catalyst of Beijing 2022 is already having a momentous effect on the growth of winter sports and even globally for the industry and tourism. China has a long cold winter and significant mountain regions and the country is now exploiting the potential of winter sports tourism and recreation for the benefit of the health of population, especially children, to combat the concerns about an increasingly sedentary lifestyle.
The legacy of the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games was established by the Government already at the outset with its candidacy to use the Games as a spur to develop winter sports for the general population and the economy, through developing tourism and winter sports industry. -
International Federation (IF) Forum 2019 to Explore Athlete-Focused Strategies
[Source: SportAccord] ‘Athlete Centred Sport’ has been unveiled as the theme of the International Federation (IF) Forum 2019, giving custodians of sport the opportunity to explore the game-changing benefits of putting athletes at the heart of their strategies.
The IF Forum 2019 is organised by SportAccord for GAISF members and supported by the International Olympic Committee to tackle global matters related to the Sports Movement. The IF Forum will bring together more than 200 leaders from over 100 International Sports Federations from 28-30 October 2019 at the Hotel Royal Savoy in Lausanne.
The annual three-day gathering is also limited to a small number of industry partners and gives them exclusive access to an authoritative networking environment and recognition as a supporter of the Sports Movement.
Safeguarding athletes, protection of clean athletes, athlete welfare, future financial wellbeing and strengthening the voice of athletes will be among the topics under discussion during the IF Forum 2019 conference sessions, workshops, keynotes and fireside chats.
With attendance strictly limited to the International Sports Federations and the event’s Partners, delegates will discuss best practice in an intimate and inspirational environment, strengthening links within the global sports family as they gain a greater understanding of their role in supporting athletes and how they can benefit from ‘Athlete Centred Sport’.
Raffaele Chiulli, President, SportAccord and the Global Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF), said: “As we approach the 13th edition of the IF Forum, the event continues to grow in importance, having become a vital gathering for the family of International Sports Federations to learn and network in a relaxed setting that encourages a healthy exchange of ideas.
“A sport cannot flourish without its athletes performing to their potential, so it is fitting that the focus of the IF Forum 2019 will be on how to nurture and strengthen relationships between International Sports Federations and athletes, who are sport’s most important stakeholders.
“It is paramount for the future growth of International Sports Federations and sport that athletes’ voices are heard and the development, interests and lives of such individuals are supported outside as well as inside the competition arena.”
Kit McConnell, Sports Director at the International Olympic Committee said: “We have seen the Olympic Movement not only recognise the value of the athlete voice but increasingly bring athlete representation into the core of their decision making structures in order to shape the future of sport. This has mirrored the increased focus of all partners in supporting athletes on and off the field of play.
Putting athletes as a focus of this year’s IF Forum reinforces this focus and, in line with Olympic Agenda 2020 recommendations, ensures that we keep athletes at the heart of the Olympic Movement and build on other key steps such as the launch of the Athletes’ Rights and Responsibilities Declaration, the recent International Athletes’ Forum and the ongoing work of the IOC Athletes’ Commission.”
Presentation slots have been scheduled over the course of the programme as part of exclusive rights and benefits available to Partners of the invitation-only event.
The IF Forum 2019 will also feature numerous other opportunities for Partners to engage directly with sport’s decision-makers, including VIP functions and social activities for networking.
To discuss partnership opportunities and take advantage of exclusive access to the IF Forum, contact Malcolm Hardman of SportAccord +41 (0)79 945 89 34 or email malcolm.hardman@sportaccord.sport
For further information about the IF Forum, please download the brochure here or visit: https://www.sportaccord.sport/if-forum. -
FISU confirmed as first Gold Partner for SportAccord 2020 Beijing
[Source: SportAccord] SportAccord is delighted to confirm the International University Sports Federation (FISU) is the first Gold Partner to sign-up for the 18th edition of SportAccord in China. The next annual SportAccord event is set to take place in Beijing from 19 – 24 April 2020 and organisations can now register and take advantage of the pre early bird rate (CHF1,500) available for a limited period only.
FISU, founded in 1949, organises world-class sports and educational events for university students, promoting the pursuit of excellence in mind and body. These include the Summer and Winter Universiades – the largest global multi-sports events for university athletes.
The 30th edition of the Summer Universiade (3-14 July 2019) recently took place in Naples to great acclaim. The USA rank top for the number of gold medals won followed by China in the All-Time Summer Universiade Medal Table. Chengdu in China is the host city for the 2021 Summer Universiade, and was officially awarded the 2025 World Games during SportAccord 2019.
Raising the bar and becoming a Gold Partner for the next SportAccord event taking place at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, Paulo Ferreira, Director General for FISU commented:
“SportAccord 2020 in Beijing is set to be a confirmation of just how important China has become to the world of sport. It is a city that FISU has a great affinity for, with the Summer Universiade having been hosted in Beijing in 2001, shortly before the attribution of the 2008 Olympic Games.
“As a SportAccord Gold Partner, FISU is proud to once again help bring international sport’s leadership to one of our favourite places.”
Nis Hatt, Managing Director of SportAccord said: “We’re delighted to welcome FISU onboard as a Gold Partner for the first time. Their commitment and investment demonstrate that the SportAccord platform provides excellent visibility for international sports federations, particularly at this level. We very much look forward to working with FISU in the lead-up to SportAccord 2020 in Beijing.”
Attending SportAccord enables delegates to network with sporting leaders at the highest levels, access an extensive conference programme, and experience the many opportunities on offer in one location, at the world’s leading global sports business event.
To raise visibility still further, organisations can become an official partner or exhibitor and discuss these investment opportunities with sales@sportaccord.sport.
The SportAccord 2019 Review magazine looks back at some of the many highlights that took place across the World Sport & Business Summit in Gold, Australia.
Follow developments and updates via Twitter @sportaccord using #SA2020, or keep up-to-date via LinkedIn and Facebook. -
Experts to discuss ‘united approach’ to Americas on Regional SportAccord conference programme
[Source: SportAccord] SportAccord has confirmed that esports, governance and rebranding strategies, protecting athletes and social responsibility will be among the key topics on the Regional SportAccord Pan America 2019 conference programme.
In announcing the theme of ‘A United Approach to the International Sport Landscape in the Americas’, SportAccord has also revealed several influential decision-makers as speakers at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA, from 10-12 December 2019.
More leading sports administrators, business executives and iconic names from the sporting world will be unveiled over the coming weeks as participants in panel sessions, keynote addresses, fireside chats and workshops, ready to offer unique perspectives of the opportunities and challenges in relation to the Pan American region.
The tone of Regional SportAccord Pan America 2019 will be set by an opening Keynote Address on The Changing Landscape of the International Sports World by Francesco Ricci Bitti, President, ASOIF (Association of Summer Olympic International Federations).
A Panel Session on The Future of International Sports Governance will then feature Raffaele Chiulli, President, SportAccord and GAISF (Global Association of International Sports Federations); Stephan Fox, President, AIMS (Alliance of Independent Recognised Members of Sport), Vice President, GAISF; Sarah Lewis OBE, Secretary General, AIOWF (Association of International Olympic Winter Sports Federations); and Andrew Ryan, Executive Director, ASOIF (Association of Summer Olympic International Federations)
With the topics of anti-doping and protecting athletes set to be tackled in separate sessions, esports will also come under the spotlight, during a Esports 101 Scene Setter delivered by Vlad Marinescu, Vice President, IESF (International Esport Federation), President, UESF (United States eSports Federation) followed by his participation in a panel session with Philippe Gueisbuhler, Director, GAISF and other industry representatives.
International Sports Federation viewpoints will also be provided by the likes of Marius L. Vizer, President, International Judo Federation (IJF), and Ivo Ferriani, President of the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) and Executive Board Member, International Olympic Committee. Representatives of sports organisations and governing bodies in the Americas will focus on how ‘win-win’ relationships can be nurtured with athletes.
A Panel Session on Social Responsibility in Sport will focus on equality, diversity and inclusion and will be joined by Jason Jenkins, VP Community Relations, Miami Dolphins.
The industry’s sharpest commercial brains will also be on hand to offer advice about rebranding opportunities joined by Jim Scherr, CEO, World Lacrosse, while a workshop will provide ‘Panam Tools for International Federations’.
Raffaele Chiulli, President, SportAccord and GAISF, said: “As a gateway to the Americas, Regional SportAccord will equip International Sports Federations and sports entities with the knowhow and connections required to engage the region.
“The conference programme theme underlines the importance of the international sports movement working collaboratively to explore new horizons.”
Nis Hatt, Managing Director, SportAccord, said: “The conference programme is at the heart of the drive to connect sport’s key decision-makers and exchange knowledge in the context of Pan America and its vast and varied population of one billion people.
“The theme reflects the inspiration behind the creation of Regional SportAccord and we are thrilled to have secured so many first-class speakers already, with many more to be unveiled in the coming weeks.”
Regional SportAccord Pan America 2019 will bring together the Pan American, Olympic and non-Olympic communities in one location, with the inaugural event set to attract sports commissions, regional, national and international governing bodies, sports ministries, rights-holders, cities and regions, commercial entities and agencies.
Registration is open for the event, hosted by SportAccord in partnership with Greater Fort Lauderdale, Florida Sports Foundation, International Sports & Health Associates and MGO.
For information about becoming an Exhibitor or Partner, request a brochure or contact the sales team via info@regionalsportaccord.sport or +1 954 204 3081.
Follow Regional SportAccord via Twitter @sportaccord using #RSA2019, or keep up-to-date via LinkedIn and Facebook, YouTube and Flickr.