Austrian Catch’n Serve Ball Championship 2026: High-Level Competition, Women’s Empowerment, Turkish Culture, Self-Defence and Violence Prevention

The event was hosted by the Vienna-based club UAB Z9 Catch’n Serve Ball, whose dedicated volunteers ensured excellent organization and created a welcoming atmosphere for all participants. The championship was held under the motto “Civil Courage Against Violence”, emphasizing the sport’s commitment to women’s empowerment, inclusion and social responsibility.

The tournament officially began the evening before with a joint dinner at a traditional Turkish restaurant featuring live music, allowing teams to connect and celebrate the international spirit of Catch’n Serve Ball.

On the first day of competition, the group stage and the first crossover matches were played by the 12 participating teams. As one team from Tyrol was unable to attend, the Cachillas from Bavaria stepped in and competed as guest participants outside the official standings. The atmosphere in the sports hall was cheerful and vibrant, not only because of the summer weather but also thanks to the exciting matches, which were played at a very high sporting level and in a spirit of fairness and respect.

Between matches, players and visitors enjoyed a delicious Turkish buffet, with many specialties lovingly prepared by members of the host club themselves. Younger visitors were delighted by surprise appearances from the beloved cartoon characters Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, creating a festive atmosphere for the whole family.

On the second day, the battle for the Austrian Championship title reached its climax. The matches were thrilling and closely contested, with spectators enthusiastically cheering on the teams. The technical organization of the tournament was expertly managed by CSB Austria Sports Coordinator Christina Gschweidl-Faltner.

The final saw SVS1 Schwechat face the guest team Cachillas Mering. After an exciting three-set match, SVS1 Schwechat secured a 2:1 victory and claimed the Austrian Championship title. Since Cachillas Mering participated as guests and were not eligible for the national ranking, Cachibol Hirm finished as runners-up, while CnS Ball Absam 1 earned the bronze medals.

A particularly emotional moment of the closing ceremony was the presentation of the Fair Play Award to ASKÖ Catch and Play Linz, whose players were moved to tears after being recognized for their exemplary sportsmanship throughout the tournament.

The medals and certificates were presented by Catch’n Serve Ball Austria President Jennifer Kickert together with ICSBF President and CSB Austria General Manager Elisabeth Speiser. Special thanks were also extended to the many volunteers, scorers, line judges and referees whose commitment made the event possible. A traditional Turkish dance performance and inspiring speeches rounded off the festive ceremony.

An important side event took place on Sunday in cooperation with the Ju-Jitsu International Federation, where participants had the opportunity to try self-defence techniques. Catch’n Serve Ball and Ju-Jitsu share common values: empowering women, preventing violence, promoting inclusion and fostering peace through sport.

Another special guest was Maria Rösslhumer, board member of Catch’n Serve Ball Austria and founder of the initiative StoP – Neighbourhoods Without Domestic Violence. She was available throughout the afternoon to discuss violence prevention and civil courage, further reinforcing the championship’s motto.

The Austrian Championship 2026 was a great success, characterized by excellent organization, strong women, team spirit, fair play and friendship. It once again demonstrated how Catch’n Serve Ball brings people together and inspires women of all ages through sport.

Final Results – Austrian Championship 2026

1. SVS1 Schwechat
2. Cachibol Hirm
3. CnS Ball Absam 1
4. UAB Power Play Sisters
5. ASKÖ Catch and Play Linz
6. WAT Meidling – Catch’n Serve Ball
7. WSV GrimmingCatchers Liezen
8. Catchin’ Eagles
9. UAB Z9 – Catch’n Serve Ball 1
10. SVS2 Schwechat
11. CATCHIES Klagenfurt