Sport Advancement

While the pinnacle of sport advancement might be roundnet reaching the Olympic Games, there are many ways that the International Roundnet Federation can help move the sport forward.

Often advancement is defined in relative terms. Success is measured against a benchmark of the status quo. How can roundnet be more like volleyball, tennis, or football? While we certainly aspire to reach those levels of awareness and participation, we have an opportunity to do something even bigger.

Roundnet is a sport that can be played anywhere. It needs just four players and very limited equipment and space. People of all ages, genders, and abilities can get hooked on this sport and have healthier lives because of it.

Beyond that, there’s something special and intangible about the way roundnet brings people together. This sport fosters friendships and community in way that is rarely seen and greatly needed. If you play roundnet you know you have a couch to crash on, a ride to the airport, or just someone to talk to all over the planet. It’s a sport that values integrity, personal responsibility, and kindness.

The founding of our group and the building of many friendships happened in parallel. I don’t think it would be the way it is if it wasn’t friendships built in the dirt. Some of the closest friendships I have were built when this roundnet community started.

Benny, Roundnet Austria

These attributes are special to what roundnet is. So while we want to reach football’s level of participation, we want to maintain roundnet’s level of compassion. We want to show that inclusivity doesn’t have to be at the expense of popularity. Building an International Federation is our way to help make sure everybody has the opportunity to experience the value that roundnet can add in their lives at whatever level they choose to participate.

In doing so, there are a number of concrete ways the IRF can accelerate roundnet’s growth including youth development programs, diversity and gender equity initiatives, and awareness and promotion of national governing bodies and events. The IRF is not a professional league or something reserved for the most elite athletes. Its goal is to give everyone a chance to fall in love with roundnet.