GPF Nominations for Board of Directors: All Your Questions, Answered in Detail Ahead of Voting
The Global Pickleball Federation (GPF) is moving into a new, member-led era. The organisation is also opening the door for members who wish to take a more active role in shaping the sport’s future. The proposed changes signal a shift towards a more member-led structure, with opportunities for qualified individuals to serve on the GPF’s volunteer Board of Directors.
For those considering a nomination, the following frequently asked questions outline the board’s current composition, eligibility requirements, application process, and key timelines for the upcoming 2026 elections.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Nominations for the GPF Board of Directors
If you have an interest in serving on GPF’s volunteer Board of Directors, please read through these FAQ’s to understand the eligibility and nomination process.
Q: What is the current composition of the GPF board?
A: There are currently five Continental Directors and ten At-Large Directors on the GPF Board.
Continental Directors are elected by their respective regions* while ten At-Large Directors will be elected from a list of qualified candidates by GPF Members at a Special General Meeting on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. CF Directors will only be appointed by their respective federation where a GPF-recognized federation exists.
Q: What are the qualifications to be a Director on the GPF Board?
A:
- Eligible candidates must be a member of their National Pickleball Federation. The National Federation must be a current member of the GPF. For example, a candidate from Canada must be a member of Pickleball Canada. Pickleball Canada is a member of GPF.
- Eligible candidates must demonstrate independent, unbiased thought and declare any conflict of interest which may compromise objectivity, impartiality and open-mindedness when discussing and voting on GPF matters.
- Eligible candidates must be able to devote at least 15 hours per week to GPF matters.
- GPF’s independent nominating committee will review all applicants, with an emphasis on skills in specific areas needed to drive the GPF’s strategic plan.
Q: What is the deadline to apply?
A: Sunday, March 29, 2026
Q: What is the submission process for an application?
A: The Nominee’s application should be submitted by an executive from their respective National Federation on or before the deadline, 29 March 2026.
Please note:
- If a nominee is a resident of the nominating member country, then only one nominator is required. (If from Canada, then Pickleball Canada would be the nominator.)
- If a nominee is nominated by a GPF member country but is not a resident of the nominating Member country, then a second GPF member country must support your nomination for it to be valid. (If Pickleball Canada has nominated you, but you don’t reside in Canada, you need another GPF member, for example, Philippines Pickleball Federation, to second your nomination.)
Q: How many forms are required for submission as a GPF Candidate for the Board?
A: The Nomination Committee requires:
- A letter of intent
- A current CV/resume
- Complete the 2026 GPF Board Nomination Form
Q: How many years does an elected Director serve on the GPF Board?
A: The number of years to serve are as follows:
- At-Large Director – Five will serve a two-year term and five will serve a four-year term.
- Continental Federation Directors – Each Continental Director serves a two-year term.
Q: When will 2026 GPF Board of Directors Elections take place?
A: The Special General Meeting will be held on Wednesday, 15 April 2026.
- Zoom link and time for the meeting will be sent prior to the SGM date
- The vote will be held via blind/secret ballot.
- Voting opened for 24 hours to allow all GPF Full Members to participate regardless of time zone.
- A sample vote with link will be circulated prior to 15 April 2026 to ensure maximum participation on election day.
The opportunity to represent one’s national federation by serving on the Global Pickleball Federation Board of Directors is a legacy role as the members’ commitment and expertise will have a lasting impact on the sport of pickleball globally and for generations to come. GPF Directors serve on Active8 Committees in their area of expertise, while representing GPF at global industry and competitive events.
The Global Pickleball Federation’s ultimate mission is to foster grassroots growth while achieving compliance standards for its 76 members. And as the organisation charts pickleball’s course for recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and future inclusion in the Olympic Games, it is imperative that its Board of Directors are filled by qualified and committed figures.
