Act: The Canada Not-For-Profit Corporations Act S.C. 2009, c. 23 including the Regulations made pursuant to the Act, and any statute or regulations that may be substituted, as amended from time to time.

Arbitration Tribunal: The WDBF Body in charge of the application of the disciplinary rules.

CAS: Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Commission: A Commission of the WDBF that has been appointed by the Executive Board under the terms of these By-laws.

Committee: A Committee of the WDBF that has been elected by the Congress under the terms of these By-laws.

Congress: The WDBF Congress comprising the collective membership.

Continental Confederation (CC): The association of National Federations in a region of the world.

Country: Means a self-governing geographical area of the world, which is an independent state, recognized by the international community.

Dodgeball: A sport played with two teams attempting to eliminate each other by throwing balls while avoiding being hit. The main objective of each team is to eliminate all members of the opposing team by hitting them with thrown balls or catching a ball thrown by a member of the opposing team.

Executive Board (EB): The WDBF Executive Board.

IOC: International Olympic Committee.

IPC: International Paralympic Committee.

Member: A national governing body for Dodgeball affiliated to the WDBF and the relevant CCs.

National Federation (NF): The Member of the WDBF to which an athlete or other person under these By-laws is affiliated directly or through a club or another body affiliated to a Member.

Officers: Individuals who hold the position of the WDBF Executive Board.

Panel: A group of qualified individuals appointed to hear disciplinary cases in accordance with Disciplinary Regulations.

ParaDodgeball / Adaptive Dodgeball: Dodgeball in its definition adapted  for athletes with varying degrees of physical impairment or other physical or behavioural challenges.

Region: One of the five Regions: Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America (Central and South America), North America and the Caribbean.

Resolutions: Proposals submitted to the Congress and decisions made by the Congress.

Rules: The WDBF Rules.

Summit: Referring to the annual WDBF Summit and also known as the General Assembly / Annual General Meeting of the Federation.

Territory: Means a geographical territory or region, which is not a country, but has certain aspects of self-government, at least to the extent of being autonomous in the control of its sport and which is thus recognized as such by WDBF.

Article 1 – The Mission of the WDBF

The Mission of the WDBF is to govern the game of Dodgeball, constantly promoting the sport globally with the aim of unifying educational, cultural and humanitarian values, and to strengthen the bonds of friendship between the National Federations around the world.

 

Article 2 – The Objectives of the WDBF

2.1 – To promote and generally advance the sport of Dodgeball, Adaptive Dodgeball and its related other Multisports world-wide and act as its world governing body.

2.2 – To lead the sport of Dodgeball towards recognition by the International Olympic Committee and the International Paralympic Committee.

2.3 – To support the aims, ideals and principles of the Olympic and Paralympic movements and to promote the inclusion of Dodgeball on the respective programs of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

2.4 – To promote the practice of sport, encourage the construction of physical facilities and improve the standard of performance in the spirit of the Honor System within the members’ respective jurisdictions.

2.5 – To encourage, support and lead, where possible, the efforts of government, sports federations, and public authorities to provide for the development, health and well-being of athletes.

2.6 – To enact and enforce rules governing Dodgeball, Adaptive Dodgeball and their related other Multisports and to ensure in all competitions, whether sanctioned by the WDBF, a Continental Confederation or a National Federation that such rules shall be applied in accordance with their terms.

2.7 – To supervise the strict application of the By-laws, Rules, Regulation and Policies.

2.8 – To aid the interests and well-being of its Members, and to supervise and enforce the obligations of WDBF Members.

2.9 – To assist NFs to organize and receive recognition by their National Sports Authorities and National Olympic Committees and Paralympic Committees.

2.10 – To strive to ensure that no gender, race, religious, political or other kind of unfair discrimination exists or is allowed to develop in Dodgeball, Adaptive Dodgeball and their related Multisports in any form, and that all may participate regardless of their gender, race, sexual orientation, religious or political views or any other such irrelevant factor.

2.11 – To foster and develop links with other International Federations, National Governments and Non-Governmental Organizations in order to promote the interests of sport in general, and Dodgeball in particular, at all levels throughout the world.

2.12 – To promote fair play in sport. In particular, to play a leading role in the fight against doping both within Dodgeball and externally in the wider sporting community and to strictly adopt and enforce the World Anti-Doping Agency’s rules; and to develop and support programmes of detection, deterrence and education, which are aimed at the eradication of the scourge of doping within sport.

2.13 – To develop sponsorship and marketing opportunities and commercial arrangements in relation to WDBF’s intellectual property, as are appropriate with the purpose of creating a sustainable income stream to further its mission and objects.

2.14 – To undertake and/or do all such things or activities as are necessary, incidental or conducive to the advancement of its mission and objects.

Article 3 – Members

3.1 – The Members of the WDBF are the Member National Federations.

3.2 – The Member National Federations listed in the Member Registry are the Members of WDBF as at the date these By-laws is effective, subject to Article 9 of these By-laws.

Associate members:

Associate membership of the WDBF is open to:

4.a – Continental Confederations under Art 18;

4.b – Provisional member National Federations granted by the EB under Art 4.6;

4.c – Honorary presidents and Honorary members under Art 32;

4.d – Other bodies recognised by Congress

The Associated members are listed in the Member Registry. Associate Members do not have voting rights.

Clubs, organisations (LOCs), athletes, coaches, agents, staff, technical officials and other officials, affiliated with or licensed by Member NFs are automatically affiliated or licensed to the WDBF and must at all times respect the By-Laws as well as the Competition Rules, in particular, without limitation, those on Anti-Doping, eligibility and national status of the athletes and the EB.

 

Article 4 – Admission as a Member

4.1 – A national governing body for the sport of Dodgeball in any Country may apply for admission as a Member of the WDBF.

4.2 – There shall only be one Member National Federation from any one Country recognised by the WDBF.

4.3 – In case of two (2) or more competing National Federations within the same country, the EB will work with affected parties toward a resolution; if no resolution can be found, the EB will review the membership and/or applications and subject the question to a vote at Congress.

4.4 – An application by a national governing body seeking Membership shall be made in accordance with the admission procedures set out in the By-Laws.

4.5 – To be considered for Membership, an applicant seeking admission as a Member shall demonstrate to the EB’s satisfaction that:

a – it is recognized as the national governing body for the sport of Dodgeball in its Country;

b – it is a separate legal registered body and/or can satisfy the World Dodgeball Federation that it has the legal and administrative ability to administer the sport to an acceptable standard in good governance;

c – it is Financially Solvent;

d – it recognizes the Court of Arbitration for Sport, as specified in these By-laws;

e – Its application for Membership is supported by the Continental Confederation in which the applicant is situated; and,

f – Such other requirements as set out in the By-laws.

4.6 – The EB has the power to decide, in its discretion, by Special Majority, whether to admit a national governing body to be a Member of the WDBF on a provisional basis.

4.7 – Provisional membership of any Member National Federation granted by the EB by Special Majority shall be put to the next Congress meeting for approval of permanent membership or otherwise.

4.8 – The admission, or otherwise, to Membership is at the sole discretion of Congress.

4.9 – Once admitted, a Member National Federation is a Member for indefinite duration, unless it withdraws its membership or is suspended or expelled from Membership in accordance with these by-Laws.

 

Article 5 – Application for Membership

NFs wishing to become members of the WDBF shall:

5.1 – Apply for affiliation in writing to the Secretary General, or through an official online form, as available. The Secretary General shall place the matter on the agenda for the next Executive Board meeting.

5.2 – Enclose the By-Laws of their organization. If the By-Laws is in a language other than English, then a translated version in English will be provided if requested.

5.3 – Enclose a list of its principal officers and its address and contact details.

5.4 – Provide proof of recognition as the national governing body for the sport by the National Sports Authority or National Olympic Committee, according to the practices of that country; or demonstrate that the organization is working towards recognition

5.5 – Pledge to abide by the By-Laws of WDBF.

5.6 – Submit a report on past and current Dodgeball activities.

 

Article 6 – Annual Fees for Membership

There shall be an annual fee for each Member affiliated to the WDBF and this shall be paid in advance, by the 31st of January each year. The annual fee is set by the Executive Board and published in the Membership Agreement, Appendix A – Member Dues and Schedule

As the discretion of the WDBF Executive Board, Member Dues may be deferred to a subsequent year or waived altogether if that Member is deemed to be in a state of financial hardship and/or where the sport would be better served by the internal application of Member Dues within that country.

All changes to Membership Categories and Member Dues and Schedule must be changed through a majority membership vote through a Special Motion or through a tabled motion at the Annual General Meeting.

 

Article 7 – Rights of Members

7.1 – Subject to these By-laws each member National Federation has the right to:

a – Appoint Delegates to attend, speak and vote at meetings of Congress, in accordance with these By-Laws;

b – To submit Resolutions for inclusion in the agenda of the Congress;

c – Submit nominations for the election of President, and EB-members and committee members;

d – Receive the Annual EB Report together with such other reports that are required to be made to Congress as specified in these By-laws:

e -Receive circulars and other official information as specified in these By-laws;

f – Enter athletes in International Competitions in accordance with the Competition Rules;

g – Be a member of a Continental Confederation in accordance with the By-Laws and rules of the Continental Confederation;

h – To take part in and benefit from WDBF’s assistance, development and educational programmes organised directly or through the Regions; and

i – Such other rights and privileges as set out in these By-laws.

7.2 – Obligations of Members:

a – In accordance with these By-laws each Member National Federation shall:

i – Govern, promote and develop Dodgeball, ParaDodgeball and their related Multisports in the Member National Federation Country in accordance with the Purposes of the WDBF;

ii – Comply with these By-laws and all WDBF rules and regulations;

iii – Comply with the principles of good governance, and shall in particular contain, at a minimum, provisions relating to the following matters:

b – To be neutral in matters of politics and religion and to prohibit all forms of discrimination;

c – To be independent and avoid any form of political interference;

d – To democratically elect or appoint its officers and executive body;

e – To ensure that judicial bodies are independent (separation of powers);

f – To avoid conflicts of interests in decision-making;

g – legislative bodies must be constituted in accordance with the principles of representative democracy and taking into account the importance of gender equality in Dodgeball; and

h – Yearly independent audits of accounts.

i – to include the WDBF mention or branding where appropriate;

j – to submit information in accordance with the membership agreement, if requested.

k – continue to meet all the requirements for admission to Membership set out inside these By-laws;

l – adopt a By-Laws, rules and regulations which comply with, and are consistent with these By-laws;

m – to incorporate in its By-Laws a provision to the effect that all disputes between that NF/CC and an athlete and WDBF shall be submitted to arbitration before the CAS for final and definitive resolution.

n – be a member of its Continental Confederation and co-operate with it, in accordance with the Continental Confederation’s By-Laws and rules; and

o – pay any Membership Fee, by the end of March of each year.

In the event of any inconsistency between the By-Laws of a Member National Federation and these By-laws, then to the extent of that inconsistency, the By-Laws of the WDBF will prevail.

 

Article 8 – Partnerships

Neither these By-laws, nor a Membership Agreement shall constitute the WDBF or a Member being an agent of the other or create a partnership, joint venture or similar relationship between the parties, nor shall these By-laws constitute the authorization of either party to act for or on behalf of the other.

 

Article 9 – Suspension of Membership and Other Sanctions

9.1 – Provisional Suspension by the EB:

The EB may provisionally suspend a Member National Federation’s Membership, until Congress decides in last resort, for a period specified not over 12 months, in the opinion of the Arbitration Tribunal, the Member National Federation:

a – Is in breach of any one or more of its obligations under these By-laws including its failure to pay the Membership Fee or any other fees or payments due and owing by the date specified inside these By-laws;

b – Is otherwise in breach of any other Article of these By-laws or any Rule, Regulation or a decision of Congress;

c – Acts in a manner which is contrary to any of the Purposes of the World Dodgeball, or the government of the Country or Territory that the Member represents, acts in a manner contrary to any of the purposes;

d – Ceases to meet one or more of the admission requirements set out in these By-laws;

e – Fails to provide by any clause within the Membership Agreement.

9.2 – Additional Sanctions by the EB:

EB may impose any one or more of the following sanctions on a Member National Federation:

a – Set specific terms or conditions to be met or steps to be undertaken by the EB;

b – Issue a caution or censure;

c – Impose a fine;

d – Withhold grants or subsidies;

e – Exclude a Member’s athletes, athlete support personal and/or WDBF Officials who are Citizens of the Member National Federation Country, and Member National Federation Officials, from any International Competitions, activity or any WDBF position or body;

f – Remove or deny accreditation of, or other benefits to, athletes, athlete support personal and/or WDBF Officials who are affiliated to the Member National Federation, for any International Competitions and other WDBF events and activities;

g – Impose any other sanctions it considers appropriate.

9.3 – Suspension by Congress:

Congress may suspend a Member National Federation’s Membership if:

a – EB recommends such suspension following the provisional suspension by EB;

b – Congress considers, of its own volition, that any one or more of the grounds set out in these By-laws are breached;

c – Any sanctions imposed under Article 14.6 are not fulfilled by the Member National Federation, to the satisfaction of Congress.

The period of suspension imposed by Congress may be a fixed period, or an indefinite period subject to the satisfaction of any terms and conditions imposed by Congress.

Before Congress suspends a Member National Federation from Membership the EB shall:

i – Notify the Member National Federation in writing of the proposal to suspend it from Membership including the reasons for such proposal; thirty (30) days prior to Congress; and

ii – Give the Member National Federation at least thirty (30) days to respond to the proposal to suspend the member at a Congress; and

iii – Give the Member National Federation under suspension the right to be heard at Congress.

d – At any Congress meeting held any time during the period of any suspension of a Member National Federation, Congress may:

i – Extend the period of suspension from that imposed for a further period, or

ii – Revoke the suspension, either on application by the Member National Federation or of its own volition, if it is satisfied that the grounds on which the suspension were imposed no longer apply or any terms and conditions imposed with the suspension have been satisfied.

9.4 – The suspension of a Member requires the consent of at least two thirds (2/3) of the Members present.

9.5 – The suspension (including provisional suspension) of, or imposition of any other sanctions against, any Member National Federation imposed by Congress, shall be promptly notified by the Secretary General to all Member National Federations and Continental Confederations.

9.6 – Nothing in this Article limits or waives any other powers of Congress under these By-laws or any powers of the EB to impose sanctions in accordance with these By-laws.

9.7 – The EB may at any time during the period of any provisional suspension of a Member National Federation extend the period of provisional suspension for a further period, provided that the further period is no longer than the period to the next Congress.

9.8 – Expulsion from Membership

Congress may expel any Member National Federation from Membership, if:

a – The Member National Federation has been suspended and the matters giving rise to the suspension have not been addressed to the satisfaction of Congress; or

b – The circumstances for its suspension have seriously impacted or may seriously impact on the reputation of the World Dodgeball Federation or Dodgeball or have been carried out repeatedly or persistently by a Member National Federation.

9.9 – The process for Congress to expel a Member National Federation from Membership shall be the same as that required for suspension as set out in these By-laws.

9.10 – The expulsion of any Member National Federation from Membership shall be promptly notified by the Secretary General to all member National Federations and Continental Confederations.

9.11 – Consequences of Withdrawal, Suspension or Expulsion of Membership

Where any Member National Federation has withdrawn its Membership or had its Membership suspended (including provisionally suspended) or is expelled, the following consequences shall apply:

a – The Member National Federation concerned shall:

i – Not in any way show itself as a Member of the World Dodgeball Federation;

ii – Forfeit all rights and claims upon the World Dodgeball Federation and its property including its Intellectual Property;

iii – Not use any World Dodgeball Federation property, including its Intellectual Property, unless prior agreed; and,

iiii – Not be entitled to any rights, entitlements, or privileges to which it would otherwise have been entitled, including representation and/or participation in any competition, activity, event, function or meeting of the WDBF including a Congress meeting, unless specified otherwise in these By-laws.

b – No World Dodgeball Federation Official or Continental Officers who is affiliated to the Member National Federation, or holding any office in the Member National Federation will:

i – Be entitled to take up or continue to hold office in any position within the WDBF (including any Commission, board, panel, or tribunal constituted by the WDBF) or with any Continental Confederation or other Member National Federation; including meetings of Congress and the Executive Board) or any Area Association;

c – No athlete, athlete support personal or other person who is affiliated, or under the jurisdiction, of the Member National Federation may represent, enter, compete, participate or otherwise be involved in any capacity on behalf of that Member National Federation, in any competition, activity, event, function or meeting of the WDBF or any Area Confederation, unless specified otherwise in the Rules.

9.12 – Reinstatement of Expelled Member

A Member National Federation that has been expelled from Membership by Congress may be reinstated as a Member at the discretion of Congress if:

a – A proposal for reinstatement is made by the Member National Federation to the EB in writing at least six (6) months prior to an Annual Congress or a Special Congress meeting called for that purpose;

b – Having considered the proposal, the EB agrees, by Special Majority to recommend to Congress the reinstatement of the Member National Federation to Membership; and,

c – Congress approves reinstatement of Membership at the Congress meeting, by Special Majority.

9.13 – Good Standing

Member National Federations shall be in Good Standing with the WDBF. The criteria to be in Good Standing and the consequences of failing to meet the criteria, (including any sanctions) shall be as set out in these By-Laws.

 

Article 10 – Arbitration Tribunal

Continental Confederations can use the Executive Board as their appeal body if the decision can be appealed to the CAS.

 

Article 11 – Withdrawal of Membership

A Member National Federation that is not in default of any payments as specified inside these By-laws may withdraw its Membership of the WDBF by giving not less than six (6) months written notice to the WDBF.

Article 12 – The Organization of WDBF

12.1 – Congress

12.2 – Executive Board

12.3 – Continental Confederations

12.4 – Committees:

a – Technical Committee

b – Audit Committee

c – Governance and Policy Committee

d – Athletes’ Committee

e – Competitions Committee

f – Inclusion Committee

g – Development Committee

h – Coaching Committee

i – Adaptive Dodgeball Committee

j – Medical Committee

k – Other ad hoc or permanent committees as may be identified by the Executive Board

12.5 – Anti-Doping Hearing Panel

12.6 – Arbitration Tribunal

 

Article 13 – Congress

13.1 – The Congress is the general assembly of the Members and the highest authority of the WDBF.

13.2 – The Congress is organized annually, generally in connection with the Dodgeball World Championships.

13.3 – Participation at Congress. Only Members in good standing may take part in the Congress:

a – Members shall only be represented by delegates. Member NFs shall be represented by two (2) delegates, or by three (3) delegates, provided at least one (1) of them is a woman, or by four (4) delegates, provided at least two (2) of them are women.

b – A delegate may represent only one Member subject to 14.3c.

c – Each Member will have one (1) vote. Proxy votes may be assigned to a NF’s respective Regional Vice President by written notice to the Secretary General at least thirty (30) days prior to the Annual General Meeting.

d – The WDBF President (or the Deputy President chairing the Congress in the absence of the President) has the right to cast a deciding vote at Congress in the case of a tie

e – Members of the Executive Board may represent their own member National Federation but are subject to the conditions defined in 14.3a.

f – The members of the Committees and Commissions may attend Congress as non-voting participants.

g – Honorary President and Honorary members may attend Congress as non-voting participants.

h – Provisional Members may send two (2) delegates to attend Congress as non-voting members, subject to the conditions defined within these bylaws.

13.4 – Members must certify the names of their delegates in writing to the Secretary General prior to the commencement of the Congress meeting.

13.5 – Voice / No Vote: those entitled to attend Congress without the right to vote may express their opinion on any matter on the agenda, provided they are recognized by the President: i.e., Provisional member NFs, Honorary Members, members of the Executive Board, Committees and Commission Members and WDBF Staff.

13.6 – Power of the Congress:

13.7 – Congress shall have the following powers:

a – Admission of new Members, suspension or any other sanction against Members, reinstatement of Members that have been suspended.

b – To suspend an NF from membership for a fixed period or until a specified set of circumstances ceases/starts to exist.

c – To suspend an NF from any one or more types of International events for a fixed period of time or until a specified set of circumstances ceases/starts to exist.

d – To caution or censure an NF.

e – To reinstate an NF, which has been suspended before the end of the period or before the set of circumstances specified have ceased/started to exist.

f – The consent of at least two thirds (2/3) of the Members present is required for suspension, expulsion or any other sanction against a Member.

g – Sets the aims of WDBF and approves the Strategic and Operating Plans of the organization.

h – Adopts the budget for the following year and votes on the acceptance of the financial statements of the previous fiscal year, after receiving the report of the Finance Committee.

i – Election of the President and other Executive Board members.

j – Confers the title Honorary President, Honorary Members and Medals of Honour. The consent of at least two thirds (2/3) of the Members present is required.

k – Approves the agenda.

l – Adopts and modifies the By-laws; and resolutions.

m – Sanctions Members in accordance with the terms of the By-Laws.

n – Decides on the appointment of external auditors for the ensuing year or on the use of internal audit mechanisms.

13.8 – Quorum. No business shall be transacted at Congress unless quorum is present

13.9 – Quorum shall exist if delegates representing one-third of the Members are present. If quorum is reached at the start of the meeting, said meeting can carry until its adjournment, even if quorum is lost during the meeting.

13.10 – Invitation and Agenda.

a – The invitation to take part in Congress will include an agenda. It will be sent by electronic mail at least thirty (30) days before Congress to anyone with the right to participate. The Final agenda will be sent by electronic mail at least ten (10) days prior to the Congress.

b – In years in which one or more elections are to be held, a list of the persons who have been nominated for the election(s) shall be attached to the final Congress Agenda.

c – In the absence of consent from the President of the Congress, the agenda may not be extended to other items without the consent of at least two thirds (2/3) of the Members present.

13.11 – A majority of the votes cast by the members present and carrying voting rights shall determine the adoption of resolutions in meetings except where the vote or consent of a greater number of members is required by the By-laws.

 

Article 14 – Officers

14.1 – The President is the highest Officer of the WDBF. The President shall have the following roles and duties:

a – Directs WDBF, calls and chairs the meetings of Congress, and the Executive Board.

b – Organise and is responsible for the WDBF offices and of the whole WDBF management.

c – Is the spokesperson for WDBF and represents it at all appropriate occasions.

d – Ensures the implementation of all decisions taken by the Congress and Executive Board.

e – Negotiates or oversees the negotiation of all major contracts on behalf of the WDBF in consultation with the appropriate members of the Executive Board and/or any other relevant persons.

f – Supervises the activities of the Secretary General, and Vice-Presidents.

g – Is an ex-officio member of all Committees and Commissions.

14.2 – The Deputy President shall have the following roles and responsibilities::

a – Assists the President and the Secretary General in their duties; and performs duties as assigned by the Secretary General in his/her absence.

b – Represents the President, and assumes the duties of the President, when absent or when asked to do so by the President.

c – Is entitled to attend all meetings of Committees and Commissions without the right to vote.

14.3 – The Treasurer shall have the following roles and responsibilities:

a – Assists and advises the President in the development of WDBF’s financial affairs.

b – Assists the President in investing the funds of WDBF, having consulted various financial experts.

c – Submits a report to Congress regarding the financial affairs of WDBF; or to the President and Executive Board as requested.

d – Assists the President and Secretary General in the preparation of the annual budget.

e – Assists in ensuring the receipt of annual fees from Members and also contributions, royalties and dues, emoluments and fines imposed by WDBF.

f – Assists in the selection of an auditor, if needed and meet the auditors annually

g – Chairs the Audit Committee

14.4 – The Secretary General shall have the following roles and responsibilities:

a – Takes charge of correspondence.

b – Prepares the meetings of WDBF Congress and Executive Board.

c – Keeps the minutes of meetings of Congress and Executive Board, and preserves and has custody of the same.

d – Administrates WDBF’s offices and finances, with the collaboration of the Vice-President responsible for financial affairs.

e – Ensures the receipt of annual fees from members and also contributions, royalties and dues, emoluments, and fines imposed by WDBF.

f – Ensures compliance by all Members, Officers, Executive Board members, athletes, coaches, officials, staff, committee and commission members, with these By-laws and all WDBF Rules and decisions and to inform the Executive Board of any violations of the spirit and letter of them.

g – Is entitled to attend all meetings of commissions and committees, without the right to vote; should not attend meetings of juries so as to preserve the independence of the jury.

14.5 – The Regional Vice Presidents are elected from their Continental Confederations and affirmed by Congress. They shall have the following roles and responsibilities:

a – Assist the President in his or her duties.

b – Assists the Secretary General in his or her duties.

c – Acts as a liaison with their respective Continental Federation members.

14.6 – Election of Officers: The election of officers shall take place at Congress for a four-year term of office.

a – Each member NF may withdraw its support to an elected officer of WDBF when it deems facts and circumstances justify.

b – Each member NF will include an arbitration process in their By-Laws, which includes the right to appeal final decisions made by them.

 

Article 15 – Executive Board

15.1 – The Executive Board shall manage the property and business of WDBF.

15.2 – The Executive Board consists of the President, Deputy President, Secretary General, Treasurer and five (5) Vice Presidents representing the Continental Confederations. No more than two (2) representatives from the same member NF shall be elected to the Executive Board.

15.3 – The Executive Board shall meet at least twice a year, one of which will be on the occasion of the World Championships before Congress.

15.4 – A Quorum consists of at least 50% of the members of the Executive Board, including at least one Member (excluding the Secretary General).

15.5 – Each Executive Board member has one (1) vote. A simple majority is enough to carry all decisions. The WDBF President, (or Deputy President in the absence of the President) has the right to cast a deciding vote in the case of a tie. There shall be no proxy votes.

15.6 – Powers of the Executive Board. The roles and responsibilities of the Executive Board are the following:

a – Delegates the President and Secretary General to handle routine business.

b – Carries out decisions made by Congress.

c – Decides routine matters.

d – Decides matters referred to it by Congress.

e – Submits resolutions to Congress.

f – Informs Congress of its opinion concerning resolutions.

g – Supervises and gives guidance to the Committees and Commissions.

h – Creates Commissions and selects their members.

i – Supervises strict application of these By-laws.

j – Charges the Committees to submit Resolutions in their area of expertise.

k – Amends the the appropriate documentation in consultation with the Technical, Medical, ParaDodgeball and Athletes’ Committees and the relevant Commissions as experience demands, to ensure fair and safe events for athletes.

l – Acts on assignments and directions as given from time to time by the President.

m – Acts as the interpreter of the WDBF Rules. All matters not provided for under WDBF Rules shall be decided by the Executive Board.

n – Adopts and modifies the WDBF Regulations and Internal directives and policies.

o – Elects the Members of the Arbitration Tribunal and names it’s Chair and Vice-Chair

p – Makes the necessary appointments, including Technical Delegates for the Olympic Games, World Championships, Multisport Games, and World Cup Series.

q – Appoints non-voting officers, specifies their duties, and, subject to the Act, delegates to such officers the power to manage the affairs of the Corporation.

r – Appoints the official WDBF representative at Regional Games. These representatives shall ensure that WDBF rules are implemented.

s – Promotes a development programme for the benefit of member NFs requiring assistance in the training of coaches, officials, etc.

t – Appoints pro-tem replacements to the Executive Board and Committees until the next Congress, which will elect the vacated positions. (where possible, the person with the next highest vote received at previous Congress elections, shall be appointed).

u – Apply sanctions according to Art. 37 of these By-laws.

v – Approve Amendments of the budget for the current year. These changes may not increase or reduce the budget by more than 20% of the budget approved by Congress.

w – Call the annual of meeting of Congress and an extraordinary Congress meeting in accordance with Article 26,2 of these By-laws.

x – To borrow money upon the credit of the corporation, from any bank, corporation, firm or person, upon such terms, covenants and conditions at such times, in such sums, to such an extent and in such a manner as the Executive Board in its discretion may deem expedient; and to limit or increase the amount to be borrowed.

y – Remuneration for all officers, agents and employees and committee members shall be fixed by the Executive Board by resolution. Such resolution shall have force and effect until the next Congress, and shall carry on at the good pleasure of the Executive Board unless defeated by a resolution duly adopted by a majority of members present at a Congress.

 

Article 16 – Continental Confederations (CC)

16.1 – Continental Confederations are recognized at the discretion of the WDBF; recognition is awarded by Special Majority vote at Congress.

16.2 – The five Presidents of the Continental Confederations are elected by their Continental Confederation as Vice Presidents of the Executive Board, reaffirmed by Congress through election. A CC President cannot delegate her/his position to anyone. They will support the efforts of WDBF to develop Dodgeball, ParaDodgeball and their related Multisports within their CC, and assume the responsibilities of the Vice Presidents as indicated in Article 16.

 

Article 18 – Committees

18.1 – All Committees will have between 5 and 7 members except the Audit Committee that shall have three (3) members, and the Athletes’ Committee that shall have ten (10) members (5 men x 5 women, being from at least 3 regions, with two places reserved for paradodgeball athletes from each gender, as available). All other Committees shall comprise at least two members from a different gender.

18.2 – All Committee members shall be appointed for a period of two (2) years by the Committee Chair(s) in consultation with the Executive Board. Candidates to the Athletes’ Committee must have previously participated in a WDBF World Championship or Continental Championship.

a – All Committee members will have one (1) vote within their Committee. A simple majority is enough to carry all decisions. In case of a tie in any Committee, the motion is lost.

b – There shall be no proxy votes.

c – All Committees shall report to the Executive Board.

18.3 – All Committee members have the right to attend Congress, with voice but no vote.

a – The Athletes’ Committee has the right to have two votes at the Congress.

18.4 – It is the responsibility of the members of each of the Committees to support WDBF’s efforts to develop Dodgeball and ParaDodgeball.

18.5 – All Committees will have a Chair appointed by the Executive Board, except the Audit Committee that will be chaired by the WDBF Treasurer, and the Governance and Policy Committee that will be chaired by the WDBF President.

a – The Chairs of the Committees shall:

b – Direct and monitor the activities of all Committee members.

c – Prepare reports and Resolutions to the WDBF Executive Board for submission to Congress.

d – Prepare reports and recommendations to the WDBF Executive Board.

e – Cause the minutes of the Committee to be taken.

f – Call meetings of the Committee.

18.6 – Technical Committee:

a – Supports the development of the sport. The Committee is advisory and submits Resolutions to the Executive Board for submission to Congress, and recommendations to the WDBF Executive Board. Its duties are:

i – To supervise the strict application of the Competition Rules and Operations’ Manual.

ii – To prepare Resolutions concerning amendments to the Competition Rules and Operations’ Manual.

iii –  – To propose Technical Delegates for official WDBF competitions.

iv – To prepare clinics for coaches, referees, etc.

v – To prepare and control examinations for International Technical Officials.

18.7 – Medical and Anti-Doping Committee:

a – Is responsible for establishing conditions at WDBF-sanctioned competitions, which ensure the health and safety of all participants.

b – Organises medical symposiums and research in the field of Dodgeball, ParaDodgeball and their related Multisports.

c – Controls all Anti-doping policies and activities of WDBF. Making sure that WDBF complies with the WADA code and the IOC and WDBF anti-doping rules.

d – The medical board shall act as the Anti Doping Hearing Panel as defined in Art 18.14.

18.8 – Audit Committee:

a – Is advisory to Congress and the Executive Board. The Audit Committee has the following responsibilities:

i – Periodically to review the financial statements prepared by the Secretary General and the Vice- President in charge of financial affairs, and have contact with the external auditor.

ii – Periodically to report to the Executive Board and to Congress on the status of the WDBF financial statements.

18.9 – Governance and Policy Committee:

a – Is advisory to Congress and the Executive Board, and supports the development of WDBF.

b – Has the following responsibilities;

i – Periodically to review the By-laws and determine if it is consistent with the goals and objectives of WDBF.

ii – To review all proposals from member NFs regarding amendments to the WDBF By-laws and make recommendations to the Executive Board for submission to Congress.

iii – To propose amendments to the By-laws, as deemed necessary, to the Executive Board for submission to Congress.

iv – To identify gaps in policies and procedures, and to make recommendations on policy to the Executive Board

18.10 – Inclusion Committee:

a – Is advisory to Congress and the Executive Board.

b – Ensures equality of opportunity, recognition, and reward for players in Dodgeball, ParaDodgeball and their related Multisports, reagrdless of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability

c – To create policies on the development of the integration of players of identified minority groups in all sport activities for recommendation to the Executive Board.

18.11 – Development Committee:

a – Is advisory to Congress and the Executive Board.

b – To provide recommendations to the Executive Board on how to assist in the development of the sport, primarily in regions with high economic barriers

c – To develop or recommend policies, information materials, and courses that might support the development of dodgeball , primarily in regions with high economic barriers

d – To coordinate requests and provide assistance to emerging federations with respect to incorporation, national recognition, By-laws and policy development.

18.12 – Coaches’ Committee:

a – Is advisory to Congress and the Executive Board.

b – To represent coaches of the National Federations within the WDBF and to contribute to the betterment of the sport of Dodgeball and its athletes on matters concerning high performance. The Committee will be composed of national coaches and elite team managers from WDBF Members.

c – Its duties are:

i – To advise WDBF on issues related to high performance and development of Dodgeball.

ii – To collect opinions and information from coaches and athletes in WDBF member

iii – To assist in the dissemination of information to coaches in WDBF member National Federations.

iv – To provide input into the WDBF evaluation process on World Championship events.

v – With the approval of the Executive Board to develop alliances with any public or private organisation that ensures development and research in Dodgeball.

vi – To make recommendations to the Executive Board on all and any aspects relating to coaching.

18.13 – Athletes with a Disability / ParaDodgeball Committee.

a – To be responsible for recommending strategic initiatives in relation to ParaDodgeball development and steward the implementation and execution of ParaDodgeball events to ensure a high standard of international level competition.

b – The ParaDodgeball Committee acts in an advisory capacity to the Executive Board on matters related to the ParaDodgeball competitions and classification requirements.

c – Its duties are:

i – Support the development of ParaDodgeball and strengthen its importance as part of the wider Dodgeball family, including the development of alliances.

ii – Encourage athlete participation along with NFs and Continental Confederations to develop grow and host ParaDodgeball events.

iii – Advise on the planning of clinics and courses for international classifiers and act as an advisory group to the WDBF Technical Committee for matters related to the Competition Rules and the Operations’ Manual.

iv – Facilitate research and development of classification systems and competitions for ParaDodgeball.

v – Select the WDBF Head of Classification for approval by the WDBF Executive Board.

vi – Approve the Classification Panels for WDBF events proposed by the WDBF Head of Classification.

18.14 – Anti-Doping Hearing Panel.

a – Is the body responsible for all Anti- Doping hearings in accordance with the WDBF Anti-Doping Rules and the WADA Code.

b – The Anti-Doping Hearing Panel shall act in a fair and impartial manner towards all parties at all times.

c – At the end of the hearing, or on a timely basis thereafter, the WDBF Anti-Doping Hearing Panel shall issue a written decision that includes the full reasons for the decision and for any period of Ineligibility imposed, including (if applicable) a justification for why the greatest potential Consequences were not imposed.

18.15 – Athletes’ Committee.

The mission of the Athletes Commission is to represent the views and opinions of athletes; to ensure that Athletes’ voices are heard within WDBF; to inform athletes regarding WDBF’s activities and requirements, including:

a – WDBF’s educational programs and tools, WDBF’s rules and regulations, WDBF’s qualification requirements and guidelines, etc.; to work with and support WDBF’s mission to develop and promote the sport of dodgeball; and to support the elevation of an athlete.

b – The Athletes’ Committee shall be composed of ten members that must be active international athletes at their time of election, and be able to represent all divisions and disciplines of the sport.

c – Members of the Athletes Committee receive feedback from athletes and act upon them accordingly.

d – They work closely with other committees and represent athletes within the WDBF

18.16 – Competition Committee

The Competition Committee provides oversight to the WDBF World Championships and other Major WDBF events, and will provide recommendations and advice on its managing and running with the Championships Host.

a – The Competition Committee will be kept informed by the Championships Host as to the progress of the organisation of the World Championships.

b – The duty of the Committee is also to consider important related issues and make recommendations to the Executive Board for implementation.

Article 19 – Arbitration Tribunal

19.1 – The Arbitration Tribunal is composed of five (5) independent and qualified members elected by the Executive Board to hear and decide on the application of the Disciplinary Rules. They are elected for a term of 4 years.

a – The Arbitration Tribunal is usually comprised of the President, Secretary General, two (2) independent Members, and at least one (1) independent member with a legal background.

19.2 – The Chair of the Arbitration Tribunal is responsible to assemble the panels to hear each case.

19.3 – The Arbitration Tribunal is supported by the WDBF Office in its administrative tasks and its seat is located at the headquarters of WDBF.

 

Article 20 – Oath of Office

20.1 – The installation of Officers shall be conducted by an officer or representative designated by the President. The Oath of Office shall be:

a – “I solemnly promise, on my word of honour, to advance the programmes and policies of WDBF. I will faithfully discharge my duties as an Officer. I will support the By-Laws and enforce them to the best of my ability. At the expiration of my term of office, I shall deliver to my successor all WDBF books, papers, money, and other WDBF property in my possession.”

Article 21 – Resolutions to Congress

Resolutions to Congress must be received by the WDBF Headquarters at least 60 days prior to Congress.

 

Article 22 – Resolution Submissions

Resolutions must be submitted in writing to the Secretary General of WDBF and be signed by the President of the member NF/CC concerned.

22.1 – All Resolutions must be accompanied by arguments for their justification.

22.2 – The Executive Board is responsible for reporting all Resolutions to Congress. Committees and Commissions affected are responsible for reporting the Resolution to the Congress and to the EB respectively.

22.3 – Resolutions received by WDBF headquarters must be sent by the WDBF Secretariat to all member NFs and members of Committees and Commissions at least thirty (30) days prior to Congress.

22.4 – Resolutions not included in the agenda, may only be introduced with the consent of at least two thirds (2/3) of the Members present and entitled to vote.

 

Article 23 – Types of Resolutions

23.1 – Amendments to the By-Laws.

a – Only Congress shall be entitled to make amendments to the By-Laws.

b – A proposal for an amendment to the By-Laws may be withdrawn at any time but a withdrawal by a Member must be in writing unless it is made by the head of the delegation of that Member during the Congress.

c – Any proposal to amend the By-Laws must obtain a Special Majority of two thirds (2/3) of the members present to be accepted.

d – Any subsequent amendments that may be necessary to the wording of the Articles of the By-Laws, which have been passed by Congress, can only be made by the Executive Board, and this is permitted provided no material change to the decision of Congress is made.

e – Amendments to the By-Laws adopted by Congress shall take effect on the publication of the By-Laws, unless otherwise specified by the Congress. The By-Laws shall be published in English by the 1st of January, after the approval of the Congress.

23.2 – Amendments to other WDBF Rules.

a – Amendments to the Rules will be recommended by the Technical Committee to be approved by the Executive Board.

b – The Executive Board may give its recommendations to the Technical Committee on proposals for amendment to a Rule..

c – The Executive Board may submit a Rules decision to Congress for its final decision, if their importance or their controversial or sensitive nature commends.

d – When an amendment to a Rule is adopted by the Executive Board, a fixed date for when the amendment shall take effect shall be stated, failing which the amendment shall take effect on the date of the adoption of the new Rules.

23.3 – Any subsequent amendments that may be necessary to the wording of the Rules, which have been passed by the Executive Board or by Congress, can only be made by the Executive Board.

Article 25 – Frequency

The elections will take place at Congress, and the term of each elected position will be 4 years.

 

Article 26 – Persons in Office

A person may hold only one office position in WDBF.

 

Article 27 – Order of Elections

27.1 – The order of elections at the Congress is:

a – President

b – Deputy President

c – Secretary General

d – Treasurer

e – Vice Presidents

f – Honorary President and Honorary Members (if applicable).

27.2 – All candidates for election must:

a – Be nominated by their NF of citizenship or residence, which is a member of WDBF in good standing, according to Chapter 2: Membership

b – Be individuals at least 18 years of age, and have the power under law to contract

c – Submit their personal achievement records and the goals they want to achieve for WDBF. The records must be distributed, preferably electronically, to all member NFs thirty (30) days before Congress as part of the package containing Congress Resolutions and Nominations.

d – Stand for election at Congress

e – Honorary President and Honorary Members, will be nominated by the Executive Board

27.3 – If necessary, WDBF will conduct elections to fill vacancies:

a – At the next Congress

b – At an Extraordinary meeting of Congress, which has been called when very important and urgent matters must be decided, if at least 20 % of member NFs in good standing requests such a meeting.

i – If required the Executive Board may appoint a delegate to the position until a formal election of the position can be held.

c – The Executive Board positions shall be automatically vacated:

i – if at a special general meeting of members, a resolution is passed by two-thirds (2/3) of the members present at the meeting that he/she be removed from office;

ii – if a director has resigned his office by delivering a written resignation to the secretary general of the corporation;

iii – if they are found by a court to be of unsound mind;

iv – if they become bankrupt or suspends payment or compounds with his creditors;

v – on death

d – A retiring Executive Board member shall remain in office until the dissolution or adjournment of the meeting at which his retirement is accepted and his successor is elected.

27.4 – The election procedures for the President are:

a – More than 50% of the votes cast are required to be elected.

b – The candidate with the lowest number of votes is eliminated, if no candidate receives more than 50% of votes.

c – Consecutive ballots shall be organised until the election is decided.

d – If there is a tie, the person conducting the election will cast the deciding vote, provided that person is not a candidate.

27.5 – The election procedures for the other positions are that:

a – A simple majority will be required to be elected.

b – Candidates with the most votes will be elected until all positions are covered, with an exception when the regional and gender requirements are not covered. In these cases, the elected candidate will be the one with the most votes, who fulfils the regional and/or gender requirements.

c – Each Member will have one vote for the election of each position, and will have the same number of votes as positions to be elected.

d – A vote with less names than the ones to be elected will not be valid, except when there are less candidates than positions to be filled.

e – In case of a tie with the candidates with the least number of votes in a round where the number of candidates is in excess of the number of available positions, a second round of voting shall take place only between those tied

27.6 – Three (3) official scrutineers and three (3) official tellers will be appointed by Congress for elections in the Congress. Scrutineers and tellers will be elected from an NF not presenting any candidate to any position on the Executive Board.

27.7 – An Election Congress will be chaired by one of the Vice Presidents, if she/he is not running for any position, or by the Secretary General.

27.8 – All other Parliamentary questions not contained in the By-Laws shall be decided by Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised.

 

Article 28 – Removal of Board Members

28.1 – A board member may be removed from the Board for any of the following:

a – Violating the WDBF Code of Conduct

b – Failure to attend more than five (5) official WDBF Board meetings consecutively

c – Harassment or bullying of WDBF Board members

d – Harassment or bullying of WDBF members

e – Breach of confidentiality

f – Criminal activity

g – Misappropriating WDBF funds

h – Discriminatory or abusive language or behaviour

i – Other behaviour or communication deemed damaging to WDBF or its members

28.2 – Any complaint arising will result in opening a case to be investigated jointly with the President and the Secretary General, who will present the background along with a motion to the Board of Directors. The Board will then act on the motion in accordance to its policies and procedures.

28.3 – The subject of the complaint has the right to know the case to be met, along with all information and recommendations to be presented to the Board. The subject will be given reasonable opportunity to present their position to the investigating party.

28.4 – If the subject is the President or Secretary General, the aforementioned will recuse themselves from the process and the Board will choose 2 other representatives to investigate.

Article 28 – Eligibility Rules

Only those competitors, who are eligible according to the WDBF eligibility rules, are allowed to take part in competitions organised by WDBF, CCs or their member NFs. Other than as provided in this article, the eligibility rules are included in the WDBF Eligibility and National Status of Players Policy.

28.1 – Athletes:

a – In order to play for the national team of a country, a player must:

 i – hold the legal nationality of that country, OR

ii – be a permanent resident of that country, OR

iii – have a parent with legal nationality of that country (see 28.1.a5), AND

iv – has fulfilled also the conditions of eligibility according to WDBF internal regulations.

v – a player seeking eligibility under 28.1.a3 must receive approval from the Executive Board at the request of the chosen national federation

 b – Any player with two legal nationalities or more, by birth or by naturalization, may choose the national team for which they wish to play. Any such choice must be made in a written declaration to WDBF, direct from the player or through the roster submission process for the WDBF competition.

 c – Any player having played in a main official competition of WDBF, including but not limited to the World Championships, World Championships qualifier, or continental championships, for a national team for which he is eligible, is considered as having chosen the national team of that country.

 d – A player who has played in a main official competition of WDBF may play for a national team of another country if they meet the criteria defined in 28.1.a and if both national member federations agree; in the absence of an agreement, the Executive Board of the WDBF will make the decision.

28.2 – In order to represent the territory in competitions of the WDBF or its continental affiliates, subject to other following provisions, a player must fulfil the following conditions:

a – Have met the criteria identified in section 2-3 for the country on which the territory is dependent (the “main territory”); and

b – Be able to demonstrate traditional or customary residence in the territory

Article 29 – The Official Language of the WDBF

29.1 – The official language of WDBF is English.

29.2 – English will be a working language of the WDBF Congress.

29.3 – Members may address Congress in a language other than English provided the member provides an interpreter at its own cost.

Article 30 – Official Competitions          

30.1 – Official WDBF Competitions: Olympic Games, Paralympic Games, World Championships, Regional Games, World Cup, Commonwealth Games, Continental Championships and qualifying competitions. The quality of the technical operations of these events will be controlled by the WDBF Technical Delegates.

30.2 – Athletes from all member NFs in good standing are invited to take part in WDBF competitions.

30.3 – The rules and Rules of WDBF will apply at all Official WDBF Competitions.

Article 31 – Medal of Honour

31.1 – WDBF has ordained a Medal of Honour.

a – This Medal may be conferred on a person who, or an entity that has merited such a distinction. The Congress may confer honorary medals to persons proposed by the Executive Board.

b – The award may also be proposed by a member NF. The proposal must be accompanied by a merit report. The Medal of Honour may be awarded to a person or entity that has contributed to a remarkable degree, to the international development of Dodgeball, ParaDodgeball and WDBF’s related Multisports.

c – The Medal of Honour will be presented at Congress.

 

Article 32 – Honorary Membership

32.1 – Honorary Membership may be conferred upon a person who has rendered WDBF valuable and laudation important services.

a – Honorary Membership will be decided by Congress; recommendation being submitted by the Executive Board.

b – Congress may confer the title of Honorary President to a retiring President of WDBF.

c – Honorary Presidents and Honorary Members will be invited to attend Congress.

Article 33 – Governing Law

The governing law of the WDBF shall be Canadian Law.

Article 34 – Dates of Fiscal Year

34.1 – Unless otherwise ordered by the Executive Board, the fiscal year end of the corporation shall be December 31^st;

34.2 – The resource of the WDBF shall consist of the contributions of the Members, the contributions or fees of license holders, contributions from stakeholders, also sponsoring and the royalties generated by sport activities;

34.3 – The President represents the WDBF, and is able to sign any agreement or document concerning WDBF, as authorised by the Executive Board.

Article 35 – General

35.1 – Any decision of the Panel resulting from a dispute, controversy or claim arising under, out of, or relating to these By-laws or any subsequent amendments of or in relation to these By-laws, including but not limited to, its formation, validity and binding effect, interpretation, performance, breach or termination, as well as non-contractual claims, may be submitted to mediation in accordance with the CAS.

35.2 – Mediation Rules.

a – The language to be used in the mediation shall be English.

b – Where a settlement of the dispute is not reached within 90 days of the commencement of the mediation, or if, before the expiration of the said period either party fails to participate in the mediation, the dispute shall, upon the filing of a request of Arbitration by either party, be referred to and finally settled by CAS arbitration pursuant to the Code of Sports related arbitration.

35.3 – Administrative or sporting violations of the rules and regulations of the WDBF could give rise to disciplinary measures and penalties which type and amount are fixed by the Disciplinary Rules.

35.4 – The disciplinary measures and penalties are applicable:

a – To members

b – To Athletes and Coaches

c – To WDBF competition officials

d – To members of the Executive Committee

e – To individuals carrying out a function on behalf of the WDBF either as members of their committees and commissions or in any other capacity.

35.5 – The communication of a penalty to any person mentioned in article 35.4 items is considered duly completed once the penalty is communicated to the person and the National Federation to which he/she is affiliated.

 

Article 36 – Disputes Between WDBF and One of its Members

Disputes between WDBF and one or several of its members, which are not settled by a decision of WDBF, may be submitted for arbitration by either of the parties to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) (Lausanne), Switzerland, to the exclusion of any other domestic tribunal. Any decision taken by the said court shall be without appeal or recourse to ordinary courts, and is binding on the parties concerned.

36.1 – The Disciplinary Rules according to ordinary procedure on violations of WDBF Rules and regulations to the extent such jurisdiction is not assigned to another WDBF body.

36.2 – The Arbitration Tribunal has jurisdiction in the case of proceedings contemplated in sections 9.1, 10 and 16.4 (b).

36.3 – The Arbitration Tribunal will resolve any appeal to decisions from the Competition Juries or from any other WDBF panels other than the Disciplinary Tribunal, as outlined in the WDBF Competition Rules.

36.4 – The Executive Board nominates the three independent members of the Arbitration Tribunal of which at least two of them must be lawyers, judges or retired judges by profession.

36.5 – The Disciplinary Rules govern the organization of the Arbitration Tribunal and Panels, and the procedure applicable to them.

36.6 – The Arbitration Tribunal presents a yearly report of its activities to the Congress.

 

Article 37 – The Decisions of the WDBF

The decisions of the WDBF and its bodies are final within the WDBF. Any dispute relating to their application or interpretation, after internal recourse have been exhausted, may be submitted exclusively to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, in accordance with the Code of Sports-Related Arbitration.

 

Article 38 – The Request for Arbitration

The request for arbitration must be filled with the CAS no later than Thirty (30) days following the receipt of the decision that is the subject of the arbitration procedure. In the case of recourse against provisional measures, requests for arbitration must be submitted within no more than three (3) days of receipt of the contested decision.

Article 39 – The Dissolution of the WDBF

The dissolution of WDBF requires a three-quarter (75%) majority vote in favour of such a resolution at two (2) successive meetings of Congress, separated by at least 6 months.

 

Article 40 – In the Event of Dissolution

In the event of dissolution, the Congress, in its second meeting, shall appoint one or more liquidators, who shall discharge all debts and liabilities incurred on behalf of the WDBF.

Any property remaining on liquidation of the Corporation, after discharge of liabilities, shall be distributed to one or more qualified donees within the meaning of subsection 248(1) of the Income Tax Act.

 

Article 41 – Conclusion of the Liquidation

At the conclusion of the liquidation, the liquidators shall submit a final report to the Congress, which shall declare the liquidation closed.