By Kelly Hamer | Posted: Thursday December 4, 2025
Fistball is a unique blend of speed, skill, and strategy.
Fistball may not yet have a high profile in NZ but TBHS Old Boys’ Jessie [TBHS 2007-12] and Samuel Kempf [2009-13] had the distinction of representing NZ at the World Games in Chengdu, China this year. Their venture to these Games was challenging and rewarding. It was only the second time a NZ team had contested these Games which cater for non-Olympic sports. The NZ team was ranked 11th behind world leaders Brazil, Switzerland, Austria and Germany.
The squad of nine were very much underdogs yet showed that they could be competitive. Samuel captained the team and was the flagbearer at the opening ceremony. Brother, Jesse was to be the starting setter for the tournament but fractured his shoulder in the opening game.
The next international Fistball event is the World Championships in two years time. The Kempf brothers will strive to be there. Good luck!
Making it a family sporting venture Rene Kempf [ TBHS 1982-84 ] has recently been elected the new President of the NZ Federation. Rene has coached Fistball at top level over the years.
Footnote Jesse Kempf has emerged as lead figure on South Canterbury running scene. In the Gold Coast Half Marathon in July he ran the 21.1km in 1hr 7m 43s. Good enough to make the top 10 in any NZ Half Marathon
