Table football facts for kids
Table football (Bonzini style table)
|
|
| Highest governing body | International Table Soccer Federation |
|---|---|
| Nicknames | Table soccer, foosball, kicker |
| Invented | 1921 |
| Characteristics | |
| Team members | Single opponents, doubles, or teams of up to 4 |
| Mixed-sex | Yes |
| Type | Table |
| Equipment | Football table |
| Presence | |
| Olympic | No |
Table football, often called foosball or table soccer, is a fun table-top game. It is also a sport that is a bit like regular association football. The name "foosball" comes from the German word "fussball" or "fußball," which means football.
This game is super competitive and can be played by just two people. You can also play in teams, like two against two. Foosball tables are a great addition to any game room for people who love table games.
Contents
Discovering Table Football
Table football is a miniature version of soccer played on a special table. You control players attached to rods by spinning and moving them. The goal is to hit a small ball into your opponent's goal. It's a fast-paced game that needs quick reflexes.
How to Play Foosball
Playing foosball is simple to learn but hard to master. Each player controls a set of rods with players on them. You push, pull, and spin these rods to move your players. The aim is to kick the ball into the opponent's goal. The first team to score a set number of goals wins the game.
You can play with different numbers of players. In a single game, one person plays against another. In doubles, two players are on each side. One player usually controls the goalie and defense. The other player handles the midfield and offense.
Types of Foosball Tables
There are two main kinds of foosball tables. Some are amateur tables, perfect for casual play at home. Others are professional tables, made for serious players.
Professional tables have special features. These features help players make more complex shots. They are often heavier and more stable. There are also simpler, smaller tables for beginners or younger kids. These tables are usually lighter and easier to move.
The Rise of Foosball as a Sport
Foosball is becoming very popular around the world. It is no longer just a game for arcades or basements. Many tournaments are held regularly. Some professional players even play foosball full-time.
Foosball Tournaments and Leagues
Professional foosball players compete in many tournaments. These events are organized by groups like the International Table Soccer Federation (ITSF). The ITSF helps set rules and promote the sport globally. Winning these tournaments can bring fame and prizes.
Players from different countries compete against each other. This makes foosball a truly international sport. It's exciting to watch skilled players control the ball. They use amazing tricks and strategies to score.
Skills Needed for Foosball
Playing foosball well requires several skills. You need good hand-eye coordination to control the players. Quick reflexes are important to block shots and score goals. Strategy is also key, like knowing when to defend or attack. Practice helps players improve their game.
History of Table Football
The game of table football was invented a long time ago. It was first created in 1921. Over the years, it has grown into the popular game we know today. Different countries have their own styles of tables and playing.
For example, some tables have players with one leg. Others have players with two legs. These differences change how the game feels and plays.
Images for kids
-
A Greek table football player
-
Ball control
-
A Garlando style table with a game in progress
-
An 11-per-side Leonhart table football game in Berlin
-
The largest table football using 1-metre Buddy Bear figures was set up in 2006 in Berlin for the Football World Cup.
-
Former Polish president Lech Kaczyński and former coach of the Polish national team Leo Beenhakker play table football
See also
In Spanish: Fútbol de mesa para niños
