How to Play Foosball

Getting started in the game

The age old question of foosball:  Is it a sport or just a mere game?  Foosball competitors would have you believe that it is a sport, a combination of strength, quickness and mental ability.  Mere enthusiasts or recreational players often view it as a bar game, a way to spend a few quarters and some time with friends.  Either way you look at it, it sure is fun!

Objective

Four rods consisting of a total of 13 men are assigned to each side. The objective of the game is to use the men to maneuver the foosball into the opposing goal. 
Formats

Singles and doubles foosball are standard for the game.  In doubles play one player on each side controls the two offensive rods while the other respective players control the two defensive rods.
"Goalie games" consist of singles games where the players only utilize the two defensive (leftmost) rods and the center rods are kept turned up and out of play.

Rule of foosball

Foosball rules are very basic in coordination with the objectives of the game.  The defining rule between serious players and amateurs is the "no spinning" rule.  This means no complete turns of the rod that flip the men in order to propel the ball with extra force.  Some games use shot clocks (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), but the rules should always be discussed before the game begins.

Strategies and techniques

Controlling the ball is one of the most important aspects of the game.  Sloppy passing will give the other player extra attempts to score, while simultaneously lowering your opportunities.  Position your forward men to catch the ball by angling them slightly away from the direction of the pass. 
On defense, keeping the ball away from the opponent's three man striker row is the easiest way to limit scoring opportunities.  However, if the ball advances into your defensive zone, stagger your back rows to provide maximum coverage.

Have fun!

Foosball is a competitive alternative to full length soccer, and generally much less tiring!  The fast paced action can keep you and your friends entertained for hours and as with almost any sport (or game), practice makes perfect!

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