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As 2024 comes to a close, the United States Fistball Association (USFA) reflects on an incredible year of milestones, growth, and international success. From historic tournament performances to the rising popularity of the sport at home, Team USA has much to celebrate.
Fistball Across the Country!
The 2024 Fistball season began in early March as the Men’s and Women’s National Teams kicked off their selection process for the 2024 Women’s World Championship and the 2024 Pan American Games.
While senior athletes were competing on the fields of Flanders, NJ and Feasterville, PA, college students across the country were introduced to the sport through on-campus events. In April, the University of Alabama hosted its annual World Games Day, which featured a fistball clinic. In May, senior national team athletes visited Utah State University to provide students with an introductory lesson on fistball. USA Fistball looks forward to growing these relationships with colleges nationwide.
The competitive club season began in June with the Swim and Sport Club’s annual SummerFist competition, which featured six club teams. The Spice Boys edged out their rivals, Phoenix FC, in a thrilling five-set final.
The season concluded with the United States National Championships at the Phoenix Sports Club on Saturday, August 17th. The US Women’s National Team used the tournament as preparation for the Women’s World Championship, while South Jersey FC captured their second consecutive title in the men’s division.
Women’s Team Makes History at the IFA Women’s World Championship
In November, the U.S. Women’s National Fistball Team achieved their best-ever finish at the 2024 IFA Women’s World Fistball Championship in Montecarlo, Argentina. The team placed 9th, setting a U.S. record for the most wins at a World Championship. Their tournament journey included a 3:0 victory over Colombia in group play and a dominant 3:0 win against Australia in the 9th-place match.
Under the guidance of first-year head coach Emma Dollase, the team showcased resilience and growth throughout the competition. This historic finish highlights the progress of U.S. women’s fistball on the international stage.
Men’s Team Earns Bronze at Pan American Fistball Championship
Following the Women’s World Championship, the USA Men’s National Fistball Team made waves at the 2024 Pan American Fistball Championship in Buenos Aires, Argentina, finishing in third place. The team started strong with victories over Bolivia and Colombia but faced challenging losses to Brazil and Argentina in group play.
In the 3rd place match, the Americans secured a thrilling 2:1 victory over Chile. This bronze-medal finish reaffirms the team's status as an emerging force in the Americas and sets a solid foundation for future success.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Building on the momentum of 2024, USA Fistball has ambitious plans for 2025. Both the men’s and women’s teams will continue to train and aim to compete in at least one international tournament. Domestically, the USFA seeks to expand its player base and increase the number of club tournaments and teams across the country.
The USFA extends its heartfelt thanks to the athletes, coaches, fans, sponsors, and volunteers who have contributed to the growth and success of fistball in the United States this year. The dedication and support of the community have been vital to achieving these milestones, and the USFA looks forward to an even brighter future for the sport.
As we celebrate the achievements of 2024, we invite everyone to join us in growing the game of fistball in the United States. Here’s to another successful year in 2025!
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