Learn to Play

Education

Learn to Play

Everything you need to know about table soccer — from rules to advanced techniques.

Fundamentals

Official Rules of the Game

Move beyond casual play. These are the official ITSF rules used in all sanctioned tournaments worldwide.

The Golden Rule: No Spinning

Spinning the rods (a rotation of over 360° before or after hitting the ball) is strictly prohibited in official ITSF play. This is the single most important rule for competitive foosball.

The Serve

The game begins by placing the ball at the feet of a figure in the center of the table or through a side hole. Both players must signal readiness.

Dead Ball

A ball that has stopped out of reach of any player figures is a 'dead ball.' It is re-served from the last team that was scored upon.

Winning Conditions

Matches are typically determined by a predetermined number of goals - usually 5, 7, or 10 depending on the tournament format.

Download Official ITSF Rulebook (PDF)

Level Up

Skills & Techniques

Break down the gameplay to improve your skill level beyond basic hitting. Master these techniques to compete at a national level.

Rod Roles

Goalkeeper, Defenders, Midfield, and Strikers - understand each row's purpose and positioning.

The Snake Shot

The most popular competitive shot. Use your wrist to rotate the striker with maximum strength and precision.

Back-stabbing

A strategic move where the ball rebounds off a wall into the opponent's goal. Requires precise angle control.

Pull Shot

Slide the rod laterally then shoot in one fluid motion. One of the fastest shots in competitive play.

Video Tutorials

Watch shot techniques in action on our YouTube & TikTok channels.

Watch Now
Students learning
For Schools

Table Soccer in Education

For Educators

Inclusive Sport for Schools

Table soccer is a unique tool for wellbeing and education. It is a mixed-sex sport that can be played by able-bodied and disabled athletes alike.

Hand-eye coordination & reflexes
Self-confidence & social interaction
Team leadership & strategic thinking
Inclusive - all abilities welcome
Mixed-sex competitive play
Download Teacher Resource Pack

Equipment

Table Standards

Understand what makes a professional competition table different from a toy. These are the ITSF-approved brands and features.

Bonzini

ITSF Official

Roberto Sport

ITSF Official

Garlando

ITSF Official

Tornado

ITSF Official

Leonhart

ITSF Official

Chrome-finished Bases

Professional tables feature heavy-duty chrome bases for stability during intense matches.

Comfortable Grips

Iron rods with ergonomic rubber grips reduce fatigue during long tournament sessions.

Counterbalanced Players

Figures stay horizontal when released, preventing interference with ball movement.

Get Involved

Growth & Community

Take the sport beyond your own home. Build clubs, organize events, and find tables near you.

Start a Club

Step-by-step guide on how to start a Table Football Club in a school, college, or local community.

Club Guide

Organize an Event

Resources for organizers on how to run a local tournament with official ITSF standards.

Event Guide

Find a Table

Directory of verified venues in Nepal with high-quality tables - from H2O Club to school gyms.

View Venues
HomeStoryLearnEvents