International Pickleball Federation and World Pickleball Federation Announce Historic Merger
The International Pickleball Federation (IPF) and the World Pickleball Federation (WPF), two major governing bodies for pickleball, have announced their plans to merge. This merger aims to create a unified organization dedicated to the global growth and development of pickleball.
Significance of the Merger
This decision is particularly significant as it coincides with the sport’s 60th anniversary in 2025. The merger aims to bring the global pickleball community together and establish a cohesive approach to governance.
Unified Organization
The new organization will retain the World Pickleball Federation (WPF) name while incorporating the IPF’s mission of “No Country Left Behind.” National governing bodies worldwide are invited to join this effort to advance the sport internationally.
Transition and Governance
A Transition Board, with representatives from both federations and an independent advisor from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), will oversee the merger. The process will conclude with a joint Annual General Meeting (AGM) to finalize the merger and appoint a new Board of Directors.
Future Goals
The unified federation aims to streamline global governance, strengthen international relationships, and elevate pickleball’s profile worldwide. Leaders Arvind Prabhoo and Seymour Rifkind emphasized their commitment to the sport’s growth and uniting the global community.
Doubts Revealed
Pickleball -: Pickleball is a fun sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It’s played with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes, usually on a small court.
Merger -: A merger is when two organizations come together to form one. In this case, the International Pickleball Federation and the World Pickleball Federation are joining forces to work better together.
International Pickleball Federation (IPF) -: The International Pickleball Federation (IPF) is an organization that helps promote and organize pickleball games around the world.
World Pickleball Federation (WPF) -: The World Pickleball Federation (WPF) is another group that supports and manages pickleball activities globally. After the merger, the new organization will keep the WPF name.
60th anniversary -: The 60th anniversary means that pickleball has been around for 60 years. It’s a special milestone that shows how long the sport has been enjoyed by people.
Transition Board -: A Transition Board is a group of people who help manage the change when two organizations merge. They make sure everything goes smoothly and everyone works well together.
AGM -: AGM stands for Annual General Meeting. It’s a big meeting where important decisions are made, and everyone involved in the organization can discuss plans for the future.
