SportAccord – “uniting the world of sport”

5th edition alumnus, Tim Goethals, was the final guest speaker on the FIFA Master 10th edition programme. Mr. Goethals (Project Manager at ASOIF and Head of Operations, SportAccord Convention) presented the current activities of SportAccord – an umbrella body which seeks to co-ordinate and promote the common interests of international sport federations such as the IOC, FIFA and the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF).

Formerly known as the General Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF), Mr. Goethals stated that rebranding of “SportAccord” was a direct result of the success of the SportAccord Convention.

The SportAccord Convention was recently held in Dubai, bringing together various organizations and stakeholders within the sport industry. In line with the new name, SportAccord has also structured itself to incorporate its partners.

The SportAccord General Assembly and Council includes sport administrators from various entities – all with the aim of “recognising, assisting and representing” international federations within the global sport movement. Other strategic developments have included SportAccord’s relocation to the Maison du Sport in Lausanne as well as the promotion of the Multi-Sport Games.

There was also time for Mr. Goethals to put on his “ASOIF hat” and discuss the role and need for organizations such as ASOIF within the IOC. The FIFA Master students were also interested in the Olympic Programme and the relative importance of Olympic revenue to the different sport federations. The contemporary topic of “event hosting” was examined, looking at the aims of the different stakeholders when an international event is held.

In conclusion, Mr. Goethals held a Q&A session with the FIFA Master students, discussing topics such as doping and career opportunities within the sport industry.