Pursuing IOC recognitionAn international federation for the sport of pickleball
Contact

Governance

Board of Directors

The World Pickleball Federation is governed by an elected Board of Directors, which is accountable to the General Assembly of Member National Federations. As the Federation’s principal governing body between General Assembly meetings, the Board sets WPF’s strategic direction, establishes policies, oversees organisational and financial performance, manages risk, and safeguards the integrity, independence, and sustainable growth of pickleball worldwide through transparent, ethical, and accountable governance.

Board of Directors

Kim Wagner

Kim Wagner

President · South Africa

Kim Janice Wagner is an experienced sports administrator and governance advocate committed to the responsible and inclusive growth of pickleball worldwide, with a particular focus on Africa and emerging pickleball nations.

As President of the World Pickleball Federation, she provides strategic leadership in advancing strong governance, strengthening collaboration among member federations, and promoting sustainable development across the global pickleball community. Her work focuses on supporting national federations, expanding participation, advancing athlete and leadership development, and encouraging integrity, transparency, and international best practices throughout the sport.

Kim is also actively involved in the Federation’s efforts to achieve greater global recognition for pickleball and to establish a strong, unified foundation for the sport’s continued international growth.

Miguel Montaño Freire

Miguel Montaño Freire

Secretary General · Spain

Miguel Montaño Freire serves as Board Director and Company Secretary of the World Pickleball Federation, providing leadership in governance, constitutional compliance, and organisational administration.

He plays a key role in supporting the Board’s decision-making processes, maintaining effective corporate governance, and strengthening relationships with member federations.

Miguel is committed to building a transparent, professional, and internationally respected federation that promotes integrity, accountability, and the sustainable development of pickleball worldwide.

Jimmy Tan

Jimmy Tan

Treasurer · Singapore

Jimmy Tan brings more than three decades of executive leadership in the technology industry, with extensive experience in corporate governance, strategic planning, financial management, and organisational transformation.

A passionate advocate for pickleball since 2014, he has served in various volunteer leadership roles within national, regional, and international pickleball organisations, while also serving as a Vice Chairman within Singapore’s grassroots network since 2016.

In 2020, Jimmy co-founded the Asia Federation of Pickleball (AFP), playing a pivotal role in expanding and strengthening the sport across Asia.

As a Board Director and Treasurer of the World Pickleball Federation, he oversees the Federation’s financial governance while contributing to strategic planning, organisational development, and digital transformation.

Jimmy is committed to building a transparent, accountable, and sustainable global federation that empowers member nations and advances pickleball towards inclusion in the SEA Games, Asian Games, and ultimately the Olympic Games.

Kelvin Yii

Kelvin Yii

Director · Malaysia

Dr Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen is a physician, public servant, and passionate advocate for the growth of pickleball across Asia. As a Board Director of the World Pickleball Federation, he promotes inclusivity, athlete welfare, and international collaboration while supporting the Federation’s governance and development initiatives.

He is committed to ensuring that every member nation has a voice in shaping the future of the sport and helping build a unified global community for pickleball.

Allen Zeng

Allen Zeng

Director · China

Allen Zeng is an experienced international sports entrepreneur and leader dedicated to expanding pickleball throughout China and the Asia-Pacific region.

As a Board Director of the World Pickleball Federation, he contributes expertise in strategic development, commercial partnerships, and international cooperation.

Allen is committed to strengthening the Federation’s global reach, fostering innovation, and supporting programmes that create sustainable opportunities for athletes, member federations, and the continued worldwide growth of pickleball.

Honorary Presidents

Seymour Rifkind

Seymour Rifkind

Founder & Honorary President · World Pickleball Federation (WPF)

Seymour Rifkind is a pioneer of the global pickleball movement and a respected leader in international sports development.

As President of the World Pickleball Federation, he provides strategic leadership for the Federation’s vision, governance, and worldwide growth.

Drawing on decades of experience in business, communications, and sports administration, he works closely with member nations to strengthen governance, expand participation, and promote international collaboration while advancing pickleball’s long-term recognition within the global sporting community.

Arvind Prabhoo

Arvind Prabhoo

Honorary President · International Pickleball Federation (IPF)

Arvind Ramesh Prabhoo is one of Asia’s most respected sports administrators, with more than 25 years of leadership experience in sports governance and development.

He serves as Chairman of the Asia Federation of Pickleball (AFP) and President of the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), where he has been instrumental in accelerating the growth of pickleball across India and the region.

As a President of the International Pickleball Federation, Arvind provides strategic leadership in governance, international cooperation, and the expansion of sustainable, athlete-centred programmes. His vision is to strengthen global unity within the sport and advance pickleball towards recognition at the highest levels of international sport.

Unification Board Members

Karen Mitchell

Karen Mitchell

Former Board Member · World Pickleball Federation (WPF)

Karen Mitchell, Chair of Pickleball England and former Board Member of the World Pickleball Federation, has been a truly inspiring leader whose kindness, wisdom, and collaborative spirit have touched the global pickleball community. Throughout the historic unification of the World Pickleball Federation and the International Pickleball Federation, Karen played an invaluable role in bringing people together with grace, patience, and unwavering dedication.

Her ability to listen, build trust, and unite diverse perspectives helped lay the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive future for our sport. Beyond her leadership, Karen’s warmth, generosity, and genuine commitment to the growth of pickleball have earned the admiration and respect of colleagues and friends around the world.

We extend our deepest appreciation for her outstanding service and lasting legacy. Her contributions will continue to inspire generations of pickleball leaders to come.

Marlon Schulman

Marlon Schulman

Former Board Member · International Pickleball Federation (IPF)

Marlon Schulman, former Board Member of the International Pickleball Federation, has been a trusted leader, respected legal advisor, and passionate advocate for the sport of pickleball. During the historic unification of the World Pickleball Federation and the International Pickleball Federation, Marlon’s legal expertise, thoughtful guidance, and calm leadership were instrumental in helping achieve a successful and lasting outcome.

His professionalism, integrity, and willingness to serve always reflected his deep commitment to the best interests of the global pickleball community. Combining exceptional legal insight with a genuine love for the sport, Marlon helped shape a stronger, more united future for pickleball worldwide.