WFDF forms Sport for All Commission

“Sport for All” within the context of the Olympic Movement refers to a philosophy and initiative aimed at promoting broad-based, inclusive participation in sport, regardless of age, gender, ability, or background. It emphasizes access to physical activity as a fundamental right and social good. It promotes mass participation in sport and physical activity at all levels of ability and society, aiming to improve health, social inclusion, and quality of life. It supports the idea that everyone should have the opportunity to engage in sport, not just elite athletes. It is currently overseen under the IOC’s Olympism365 Initiative. WFDF is also a member of The Association For International Sport for All (TAFISA), which promotes participation in grassroots sport.

Frisbee legend Dan “Stork” Roddick has been named Chair of the commission.  He will be joined on the initial commission by Rob McLeod, who also serves as the chair of the Overall Committee, Calvin Cheng, and Jim Elsner.  Their biographies can be found here.

Frisbee has always invited its enthusiasts to “Play Catch—Invent Games” and it was even imprinted on the original plastic discs. Since 1958, frisbee games have been invented and developed into organized sports that are recognized by WFDF and for which World Championships are held. However, there are numerous other disc disciplines with organized rules that are regularly played by enthusiasts, and a variety of other frisbee games that are played with on a fairly regular basis but more for just fun. The commission will also be responsible for proposing and promoting disc disciplines for recognition by the WFDF Congress.  The initial list of Disc Disciplines approved by WFDF Congress are:

“There are many different ways to amuse oneself and have fun with a frisbee, and we encourage everyone to carry a disc in their backpack whenever they go out and engage in a simple throw and catch whenever possible,” stated WFDF President Robert “Nob” Rauch. “We are excited to recognize a much expanded group of disc disciplines and are pleased to have gotten the support of Stork and the other members to spearhead this effort.”

Sport for All Commission Chair Dan “Stork” Roddick added: “Since its inception, the flying disc has inspired us to play catch and invent games. Perhaps no single sports object has been such a catalyst for creative play. The Sport for All effort demonstrates WFDF’s commitment to preserving and encouraging that seminal aspect of disc play. Some of our sports are already moving into the mainstream of global sport. At the same time, we look forward to the invention, development and promotion of still more engaging disc activities to challenge and entertain the many playful fans of this magical saucer.”