Driving Global Growth and Innovation in Croquet
As croquet continues to grow and evolve globally, the World Croquet Federation (WCF) reflects on a year filled with achievements, challenges, and forward-thinking initiatives. From expanding membership and hosting prestigious championships to implementing strategic plans and revitalizing Association Croquet (AC), 2024 showcased the dedication of the croquet community and its leaders. This annual report highlights the key milestones, innovations, and efforts that shaped the year, emphasizing the collective commitment to promoting croquet worldwide.
Membership Developments
The World Croquet Federation (WCF) closed 2024 with 29 Members across six continents, including 13 Full Members, five Associates, and the rest as Recognized Croquet Organizations (RCOs). A highlight of the year was Portugal’s upgrade from RCO to Associate Member, signaling growth in croquet's popularity in the region. Additionally, Corfu, Greece, officially joined as an RCO, marking another milestone for the sport’s expansion in Europe.
Championships and Events
The pinnacle of the competitive calendar was the 2024 WCF Golf Croquet (GC) World Championship, where Blake Fields emerged as the Gold Medalist. Despite last-minute planning hurdles that nearly shifted the event to Florida, the championship proceeded successfully at the originally scheduled venue, CBCC. Lessons from this experience will guide future regulations and event management practices.
European events thrived with notable championships, including the European GC Singles (won by José Álvarez-Sala of Spain), GC Women’s (Maria Taylor, Spain), and AC Singles (James Death, England). The European Club League also saw growth, with 29 teams participating, culminating in a win for Spain’s Real Club de la Puerta de Hierro.
Strategic Initiatives
In 2024, the WCF renewed its focus on strategic planning under new President José Álvarez-Sala. The updated Business Plan (2024–2027) prioritized combating the decline in Association Croquet (AC). A Working Group launched various initiatives, including coaching programs and tournaments, which have already yielded promising results in Spain with over 40 new AC players.
The Federation also initiated plans for a global player and games database and resumed efforts toward a global handicap system. These projects aim to enhance croquet's organizational and competitive infrastructure.
Capital Grants and Facility Improvements
The WCF encourages Members to pursue facility upgrades through match-funded capital grants. A notable success was the Telč Croquet Club in the Czech Republic, which completed its €15,000 lawn improvement project in early 2024.
European Regional Committee (ERC) Milestones
The ERC, now three years old, continues to strengthen regional competitions and governance. The committee introduced new event regulations and welcomed a dedicated Event Coordinator, Martins Grinhofs, to streamline administration. Plans for a standalone ERC website are underway, further enhancing accessibility and visibility for European croquet activities.
Media and Communication
The WCF expanded its digital reach, with live-streamed events drawing increased global viewership and the YouTube channel surpassing 400 subscribers. The Federation’s newsletters and social media platforms continued to inform and engage the global croquet community.
Referee Training and Development
Referee training saw innovation with online modules launched in late 2023. These resources streamlined in-person courses, exemplified by a one-day referee program in Edinburgh that integrated digital pre-study materials.
Hall of Fame Induction
Ian Burridge, a celebrated Welsh player and former WCF President, was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his contributions to coaching, mentoring, and croquet administration.
Financial Overview
The WCF maintained strong financial oversight, ending the year with healthy account balances and investments. Fee adjustments, approved for 2025, will support ongoing growth and development initiatives.
Looking Ahead
The WCF’s forward calendar extends through 2029, with multiple events still in the planning stages. The Management Committee emphasized its commitment to addressing challenges, such as the continued decline of AC and ensuring robust governance and event organization.
As the WCF reflects on a dynamic and eventful 2024, the Federation expresses gratitude to the countless volunteers, committees, and working groups that make its global mission possible. Together, they set the stage for an even brighter future for croquet.
To see the full report, visit www.worldcroquet.org/2024-management-committee-annual-report/.