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The International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) has released a series of significant organisational updates following the Executive Council Meeting held on 12–13 April 2025 at the Patrick Baumann House of Basketball in Mies, Switzerland. These decisions reflect IWBF’s commitment to strengthening its governance, operational capacity, and long-term strategic direction.
APPOINTMENT OF COMMISSION FOR LEGAL MATTERS & ELIGIBILITY CHAIR (CLME)
IWBF is pleased to confirm, in accordance with Article 7.4.2 e) of the IWBF General Statutes, Jessica Vliegenthart (Canada) has been appointed as Chair of the CLME and will serve as a full voting member of the Executive Council.
Paralympian Jessica Vliegenthart is a former national team wheelchair basketball player and world bronze medallist. Beyond her achievements on the court, she has built a successful professional career as a lawyer with Fulton & Company LLP in Canada, specialising in governance, policy development, and safe sport. Jessica has been an active and valuable member of IWBF’s Commission for Legal Matters and Eligibility since 2023.
Jessica’s appointment is effective immediately and the term of office will run until the 2026 IWBF World Congress, scheduled for September 2026.
COMPETITION COMMISSION UPDATE
In line with ongoing operational enhancements, Charlie Bethel has taken on a new role of IWBF Director of Sport and Competition. With this move, Charlie has stepped down from his elected position as Chair of the Competition Commission on the Executive Council. Given IWBF’s expanded operational capacity to manage competition, the Executive Council has decided to leave the Chair position vacant until further notice. Charlie will now focus on leading all competition matters, including event delivery, competition review, and the planning of IWBF’s long-term international calendar.
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP – “STRONGER TOGETHER”: FIBA x IWBF
A key outcome of the meeting was the approval of an extended and enhanced cooperation between IWBF and FIBA. The strategic partnership includes the establishment of the IWBF Secretary General’s permanent office at FIBA Headquarters, the Patrick Baumann House of Basketball, in Mies, Switzerland. This move will allow IWBF to further integrate into the global basketball community and benefit from strengthened collaboration and shared synergies. The full scope of the “Stronger Together” partnership will be presented at the 2026 IWBF Congress.
2025 IPC CLASSIFICATION CODE
IWBF is proactively aligning its classification processes with the newly launched 2025 IPC Classification Code. A dedicated working group has been established to oversee this important work, with a timeline in place to guide the implementation in coordination with IPC. Further details, including key milestones and opportunities for member consultation, will be communicated to ensure transparency and a smooth transition to the updated compliance framework.
OPERATIONAL UPDATES
As part of the organisational restructuring approved in November 2024, Stephanie Gagné has officially transitioned from her previous role as Communications and Marketing Manager to Chief Operations Officer (COO).
These appointments and updates mark an important step forward for IWBF as it continues to build a solid foundation for future growth and success. IWBF will remain in regular communication with its members and stakeholders to ensure they are informed and engaged as these developments progress.
