The International Floorball Federation (IFF) has taken a major step forward by creating a brand-new committee structure designed to strengthen cooperation, open the door for new expertise, and accelerate the global growth of floorball. More than 160 members from 42 countries have been appointed to serve in these committees – a milestone for the entire floorball family.
We spoke with IFF President Filip Šuman about the background, goals, and future of this initiative.
Why did the IFF decide to create this new committee structure?
The IFF has reached a stage where we need stronger capacities and broader expertise to face the challenges of modern sport. The idea was not to simply adjust existing structures, but to build a completely new system from the ground up. These committees are designed to become engines of progress – flexible, motivated, and diverse teams that will strengthen our international development.
How were the committee members selected?
We launched a call to all member federations earlier this year, asking them to recommend motivated and competent individuals. But the process didn’t stop there – members of the Central Board and other floorball leaders also contributed with suggestions. In total, we received more than 250 recommendations, from which over 160 people from 42 countries have already been appointed. This shows the incredible commitment across our sport.
What kind of people were you looking for?
We wanted individuals who are not only skilled, but also ready to actively contribute. The emphasis was on motivation, competence, and willingness to work – not on formal or political nominations. We encouraged federations to think broadly: to involve not only their own officials, but also capable people from clubs, from other sports, or even from the business sector, if they had a link to floorball.
What about diversity?
Diversity was a key priority. We actively encouraged the recommendations of women, aimed for balance in age, and looked for people with different kinds of experience. This diversity is crucial, because the committees should reflect the global character of floorball.
What will the time commitment be for committee members?
We expect an average of several hours per month. Typically, this means one online meeting per month lasting around 1–2 hours, plus independent work on sub-tasks or preparation for projects. It’s important to underline that this is a voluntary role – there is no financial remuneration. What matters is the passion to contribute.
What role will the committees play in the IFF’s work?
They will of course focus on their specific areas – development, sport, events, marketing, governance, and so on – but just as importantly, they will serve as a channel of communication between the IFF and our member federations. This two-way dialogue is essential to align international goals with national priorities.
What are the next steps?
The committees will begin their work with an online onboarding meeting in a few weeks. The aim is to ensure that all members share the same framework and understanding of their tasks. From there, they will start regular work under their respective chairs. Each committee has a very specific guideline clearly defining what is expected from them and what outputs should be delivered to the IFF Central Board. We also approved transparent timeline until the end of 2026 when we need different documents from the committees. I’m confident that this will significantly accelerate the international development of floorball.
Looking ahead, what is your vision for the committees?
My vision is that they become not only working groups, but real engines of progress. With over 160 people already involved from 42 countries – and with the final number possibly reaching around 200 – this is the broadest collective effort in IFF history. It will also be crucial to secure a very strong connection with the professional staff of the IFF. If we succeed, the committees will ensure stronger communication, more effective solutions, and – most importantly – a faster and more sustainable growth of floorball worldwide.
You can find the list of all Committees and appointed Committee Members here (PDF file)