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The International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) is pleased to confirm the composition of its Players’ Commission following the completion of recent zonal nomination and election processes.
The Commission represents an important pillar of IWBF governance, ensuring that the player voice is embedded within discussions that shape the future of wheelchair basketball worldwide.
Newly Elected Representatives
• Africa – Alhassan Sedky (Egypt) | Serving his second term
• Europe – James MacSorley (Great Britain)
• Asia Oceania – Hannah Dodd (Australia)
• Americas – Kady Dandeneau (Canada)
Continuing Members
The newly confirmed representatives join the athletes already serving on the Commission:
• Americas – John Boie (USA)
• Europe – Mariska Beijer (Netherlands)
• Asia Oceania – Hiroaki Kozai (Japan)
• Africa – Michelle Moganedi (South Africa)
The newly elected representatives will serve a four-year mandate from 2026 to 2030, while the continuing members will continue their term through to 2028.
Together, the eight athletes will work collectively to strengthen communication between players and IWBF, contribute to discussions impacting the sport, and help ensure athlete perspectives remain central to decision-making.
Welcoming the new composition of the Commission, IWBF Secretary General Gabriel Zangenfeind said:
“We are delighted to welcome the newly elected members to the Players’ Commission and to continue working alongside those already serving. The player voice is not only relevant - it is essential. The players bring lived experience, perspective and credibility to our discussions, and their input strengthens the decisions we take as a federation. Ensuring that players are meaningfully involved in shaping the future of wheelchair basketball remains a priority for IWBF.”
Growing Engagement from Athletes
In three Zones, positions were filled via a co-option process after a single eligible candidate stood.
Encouragingly, the election in the Americas saw four nominations and registered voters participating. This level of engagement signals a growing awareness of the Commission and an increasing willingness among athletes to take an active role in shaping the governance of the sport.
Recognising Those Who Built the Foundations
As the Commission moves forward, IWBF would like to acknowledge the tremendous work undertaken by the initial Athlete Steering Committee members, Erica Gavel, Ella Sabljak and Terry Bywater.
Across five years, their leadership helped establish the structures, processes and credibility that have enabled the Players’ Commission to mature into the body confirmed today.
What Happens Next
The Commission will shortly convene to agree its internal leadership, ways of working and priorities for the coming term. It will continue to collaborate closely with IWBF leadership, committees and Zones to ensure athletes remain at the heart of the federation’s work.
IWBF congratulates all representatives and looks forward to supporting them in their roles.
