The World Dodgeball federation’s Rapid Global Expansion
The World Dodgeball Federation (WDBF) is experiencing significant growth, solidifying dodgeball’s position as a truly global sport.Momentum is building towards the selection of the host for the 2026 World Championships, an event anticipated to surpass previous participation records with interest already expressed from Argentina, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, adn Thailand.
In 2025, the focus shifted to Continental Championships, serving as a platform for emerging hosts like mexico, Chile, ivory Coast, Ireland, and Malaysia.These events aren’t solely competitive; they aim to bolster local sports infrastructure and attract new fans to the sport, engaging over 2,000 athletes from 50 countries worldwide.
WDBF President Wysynski highlighted the impact of these championships on developing member nations. He specifically cited the African Championships, where Burkina Faso and Liberia made their international debuts despite limited funding and economic hardship, even returning home with medals. These successes, he explained, translate into increased access to school programs, government funding, and improved health and safety outcomes within those communities.
The WDBF’s strategy centers on fostering participation at all levels, building strong partnerships, and leveraging sport to bridge cultural divides. Current collaborations include work with TAFISA, CSIT, and the World Police and Fire Games. A recent agreement with ChezaPlay aims to expand opportunities for dodgeball and other traditional sports in southern and eastern Africa.
As 2018, the WDBF has seen remarkable growth, expanding from eight to over 70 member federations. Wysynski attributes this progress to the dedication of players, volunteers, and federations who believe in the sport’s potential. He views the federation’s request to Sport Accord, with a decision expected in May 2026, as a potential “seminal moment” – a culmination of ten years of effort and trust from global leaders, demonstrating the WDBF’s commitment to making a positive impact through dodgeball.
