Three athletes step into governance roles to represent player interests, foster community growth, and elevate athlete well-being globally for a four-year term.

The World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) today announced Caroline Tisson (GER), Şevval Cihankaya (TUR), and Benjamin Swanson (NZL) as the newly elected representatives for the Ultimate community on the WFDF Athletes’ Commission. The election was conducted via digital ballot among participating athletes during the WFDF 2026 World Ultimate Club Championships in August in Limerick, Ireland.

The Athletes’ Commission serves as a vital bridge between the international governing body and the global athlete community, providing direct input to WFDF leadership on key issues including health and safety, competition structures, and the evolution of Spirit of the Game.

“The Athletes’ Commission is the heartbeat of our federation, ensuring that the voices of those on the field are heard at the highest levels of governance,” said Robert “Nob” Rauch, WFDF President. “Our elected representatives bring a deep dedication to giving back to the sport, helping us expand participation and strengthen our global community.”

Newly Elected Representatives

Caroline Tisson returns to the Commission with four years of experience as Chair and WFDF board member, focusing on safe sport and gender equity. She currently works as a youth engagement officer with Deutschen Olympischen Sportbund. Şevval Cihankaya brings a background in sports governance and NGO management, aiming to expand opportunities for women and develop Wheelchair Ultimate. She is employed as a Business Development and project coordinator with Türkiye Girişimcilik Vakfı. Benjamin Swanson, an educator with extensive national team leadership and experience, will advocate for regional equity and ensuring athletes from all communities are represented.

The WFDF Athletes’ Commission was established in 2012 to serve as the unified voice for athletes across all Flying Disc disciplines. The Commission acts as a non-political advisory group that provides direct feedback and recommendations to WFDF leadership on issues vital to athlete health, well-being, and competitive integrity while actively promoting high standards of sportspersonship on the international stage.

An additional two athletes will be selected during the upcoming WFDF 2026 World Team Disc Golf Championships being held in September in Vilnius, Lithuania to represent Disc Golf perspectives.

For more information on their work and representatives, visit the Athletes’ Commission page.