The new sports council has recently been established Knokke Heist officially started. The installation took place in the presence of sports boats Bert De Brabandere. The composition applies to a shortened legislature that runs until 2027but the agenda is immediately well filled.
The sports council remains the official advisory body of the municipality for everything related to sports. This ranges from sports offering to infrastructure, and from club activities to individual sports practice.
Regulations under scrutiny
One of the first tasks for the new council is to update existing regulations and statutes. Where necessary, they are adapted to the current operation and needs. This does not happen in one large consultation, but via targeted working groups per theme.
This approach should make the work substantively stronger and at the same time make it more efficient. In this way, the sports council wants to further strengthen its advisory role within municipal policy.
Broad representation of the sports field
The sports council ensures a balanced composition. All members undertake to maintain active contact with their supporters: the sports clubs. Attention is paid to both organized athletes and people who exercise individually.
Knokke-Heist has a broad sports landscape, with sports clubs spread throughout 11 sports clusters. All disciplines are represented within the board of directors. This should ensure an inclusive approach to sports policy, across all sports.
Night of Sports in March 2026
A first concrete activity is not long in coming. On Saturday March 14, 2026 stands again Night of Sports on the program. In addition to the classic sporting nominations, extra attention will be paid this year G athletes.
This group is often less in the spotlight, even though it occupies a permanent place in the sporting life of Knokke-Heist. With this focus, the sports council also wants to provide more visibility and recognition here.
Working together on sports and exercise
The sports council continues to focus on sport, exercise and a healthy lifestyle. This commitment is not only aimed at residents, but also at second home owners and tourists. Together with the municipal council, sports clubs, schools and individual athletes, the council wants to continue building an accessible and future-oriented sports municipality.
Composition of the sports council
- Frank Van Lersberghe (chairman) – Aerobics, fitness, powerlifting and gymnastics
- Mother Bailyu – Athletics, fishing, omnisports, equestrian sports, walking
- Inge Willemkens – Indoor ball sports
- Matthew De Baets – Outdoor balsporten
- Els Van Poelvoorde – Tennis, badminton, table tennis, frisbee
- Philippe Noël – Billiards, darts, bowling, pétanque, curling ball, mat curling
- Franky Nobus – Bow, carbine and pistol shooting
- Bart De Sloovere – Martial arts
- Frank Vanleenhove – Water sports outside
- Christa Bultynck – Indoor water sports, triathlon
- Carine Vandael – Cycling
- Sam De Jaeghere – co-opted member
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