Foosball Fundamentals

"Is it a game or is it a sport?" That old philosophical question has been applied to bowling, golf, billiards, table tennis, and many other popular activities. Foosball is yet another conundrum that can fall between categories. To many recreational players, foosball is simply a miniature, table version of soccer. But to foosball enthusiasts and foosball professionals, foosball is regarded as a true sport that demands its own set of skills, instincts, and finely tuned reflexes. Perhaps this overview will help you decide for yourself. Objective Each player manages four rods lined with different numbers of men, for a total of thirteen men per side. The objective is to maneuver these men in order to drive the foosball toward and into your opponent's goal. When your opponent controls the foosball, the objective becomes to defend your goal and regain possession. The first player to score a pre-determined number of goals usually five wins the match. Matches can be played during which players switch sides between games and compete in a 3, 5, or 7 game series. Formats Foosball is typically played in a one-on-one singles format, though doubles play is also common. During doubles play, one player controls the defensive (leftmost) rods, while the other player controls the offensive (rightmost rods).

Some players also compete in one-on-one long range "Goalie Games" during which players control only the leftmost goalie rod or the two leftmost defensive rods, while leaving the center rods out of play.

Foosball Rules
The rules of foosball are simple and defined by the objective. The main foosball rule that foosball players will cite is "no spinning". This means that shooting and passing are to be done by quickly flicking the wrist to turn the rod instead if haphazardly spinning the rod with the handle. Manipulating the ball by blowing or rocking the table is also against foosball rules. Many other foosball rules, such as a shot clock (typically ten seconds) or no deflection goals (the ball must cross the playing surface directly from the foosball man's foot to the goal without deflecting off a teammate or opponent in order to count), can be determined by the players before play begins.

Strategies and Techniques
On offense, make sure your downfield players are in position to "catch" the foosball. This means their feet should be angled slightly forward to force the foosball to stop beneath them. When you do have control of the ball, maneuver it patiently by tapping or pushing the ball with the players' feet until you have an opening between defenders to advance the foosball toward your opponent's goal. When you have a clear shot, don't hesitate. Flick your wrist quickly and aim for the goal!

On defense, do your best to prevent your opponent from advancing the foosball to his 3-bar striker row. Try to keep one of your men in front of the ball at all times. Against quicker opponents, a random defense of sliding quickly back and forth may be more effective. When your opponent controls the ball on your side of the field, use your two defensive bars as a single unit by staggering the players.

Have Fun!
Now that you know the basics, you're ready to play foosball. Like any game, foosball is a fun and friendly way to compete. And like any sport, practice will help you develop your skills. No matter how you classify foosball, a foosball table is certain to provide years of enjoyment.