SINGAPORE — After enduring a turbulent year that saw its former president investigated by the police for alleged misappropriation of funds, the Singapore Floorball Association (SFA) is making significant progress in its bid to rebuild the sport and its public image.

The national sports association announced yesterday that it has regained its charity status, along with funding from Sport Singapore (SportSG). It has also secured sponsors for the national women’s team ahead of the Women’s World Floorball Championships in Slovakia in December.

Goldbell Group, a local firm that deals with the distribution and leasing of industrial vehicles, has come on board with a five-figure cash sponsorship for the players. It also has two other sponsors: Valhall/ZAthletica, which provides attire and equipment, while Distinct Professional Group helps with competition expenses.

Newly-appointed SFA general manager Wendy Kuan told TODAY that restoring trust and confidence in the association is key as they look to move on from the scandal. In May last year, the SFA found itself in the spotlight for the wrong reasons after SportSG filed a police report against ex-president Sani Mohamed Salim for alleged misuse of funds.

The investigation is still ongoing.

The SFA also failed to submit audited accounts and owed the International Floorball Federation 23,000 Swiss francs (S$32,856), an amount that has since been repaid.

“It is a step forward and we want to take (more) small steps,” said Kuan, who was previously general manager of the Singapore Bowling Federation.

“The association is healthy (now), but we are not financially rich yet ... (things) can still be better. We have to establish proper codes of conduct, and checks and balances, so that we are able to have more funding next year.”

Kuan is hopeful the SFA will be able to attract more sponsors and donors for the sport and its athletes. With Goldbell’s sponsorship covering about 30 per cent of the team’s preparations and expenses for the World Championships, the association is on the hunt for more money for its women’s team.

“The tournament is in Slovakia and even the cheapest tickets will cost around S$1,500 per person,” said Kuan. “It is much better (with Goldbell on board); otherwise, the players would have to pay for accommodation and flights. Hopefully, now that the SFA is in proper (shape), there will be more confidence and more sponsors will come on board.” TEO TENG KIAT