The International Table Soccer Federation (ITSF) suggests that the top foosball-playing countries in the world are Germany, the USA, Italy, France and Austria. The US-based ITSF suggests that America has a large and active foosball community, with many professional players and numerous tournaments held throughout the country.
Below, we’ll take a look at why foosball is so popular along with the major tournaments held throughout the United States.
Foosball is popular in America for several reasons
Foosball, also known as table soccer, is popular in the USA for several reasons:
- Social aspect: Foosball is a social game that can be played with friends, colleagues, or family members. It’s an excellent way to bond with others and have fun while doing so. Whether you have 2 or 4 players, it’s a fun way to spend time with friends.
- Competitive nature: Foosball is a competitive game that requires skill and strategy. Players can improve their game through practice and experience, which can lead to a sense of achievement and satisfaction.
- Accessibility: Foosball is easy to learn and doesn’t require a lot of equipment or space. It can be played in a variety of settings, from bars and recreation centers to homes and offices.
- Nostalgia: Foosball has been around for over 100 years, and many people have fond memories of playing it as children. As a result, it has become a nostalgic pastime for many people, who enjoy playing it as adults.
- Unique experience: Foosball is a unique game that combines elements of soccer, air hockey, and ping pong. Its fast-paced, action-packed gameplay appeals to many people and offers a different kind of entertainment than traditional board games or card games.
In fact, foosball’s popularity globally is largely due to its social, competitive, accessible, nostalgic, and unique nature, too.
Top 10 foosball tournaments held in the USA
Here are the top 10 foosball tournaments held in the USA along with key details:
| Tournament Name | Date | Number of Competitors | Location | Key Facts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tornado Championships | Usually held in June | 500+ | Lexington, Kentucky | The Tornado Championships is the largest foosball tournament in the USA and features several different events and categories. It is held at the Embassy Suites in Lexington, KY. |
| Hall of Fame Classic | Usually held in October | 400+ | Las Vegas, Nevada | The Hall of Fame Classic is one of the biggest foosball tournaments in the USA and is held at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. It features multiple events and categories, including singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. |
| Warrior Open | Usually held in August | 250+ | Orlando, Florida | The Warrior Open is a major foosball tournament held at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL. It features several events and categories, including amateur, semi-pro, and open divisions. |
| Colorado State Championships | Usually held in March | 200+ | Denver, Colorado | The Colorado State Championships is a popular foosball tournament that features events for all skill levels. It is held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Denver Tech Center. |
| Ohio State Championships | Usually held in November | 150+ | Akron, Ohio | The Ohio State Championships is a well-known foosball tournament that features events for all skill levels. It is held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Akron – Fairlawn. |
| Texas State Championships | Usually held in August | 150+ | Houston, Texas | The Texas State Championships is a popular foosball tournament that features events for all skill levels. It is held at the Hyatt Regency Houston. |
| Minnesota State Championships | Usually held in April | 100+ | Minneapolis, Minnesota | The Minnesota State Championships is a well-known foosball tournament that features events for all skill levels. It is held at the Minneapolis Marriott West. |
| California State Championships | Usually held in July | 100+ | San Francisco, California | The California State Championships is a major foosball tournament held at the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront. It features several events and categories, including singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. |
| New York State Championships | Usually held in May | 50+ | Albany, New York | The New York State Championships is a popular foosball tournament that features events for all skill levels. It is held at the Albany Marriott. |
| Florida State Championships | Usually held in September | 50+ | Tampa, Florida | The Florida State Championships is a well-known foosball tournament that features events for all skill levels. It is held at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay. |
Please note that dates and details may vary from year to year, so it’s best to check with each tournament’s official website for the most up-to-date information.
How to get started in foosball
Before you run out and buy a foosball table, let’s first confirm that it’s a game you’d like to play enough to warrant buying a table. You have options other than buying one right away especially since you first need to ensure you have the space.
Getting started in foosball is relatively easy for Americans. Here are a few steps you can take to get started:
- Find a local foosball table: The first step to getting started in foosball is to find a local table. You can check with local bars, game centers, or recreational facilities to see if they have a table. You can also search online for foosball clubs or groups in your area.
- Learn the basics: Once you have access to a table, start by learning the basics of foosball. This includes learning how to hold the handles, how to pass the ball, and how to shoot the ball. Trick shots and other more skilled shots come later.
- Practice regularly: Like any sport, practice is key to improving your foosball skills. Make sure to practice regularly and focus on improving specific aspects of your game.
- Attend local tournaments: Attending local foosball tournaments can be a great way to meet other players and learn more about the game. It’s also a great opportunity to test your skills and see how you stack up against other players.
- Join a foosball league or club: Joining a foosball league or club can be a great way to take your game to the next level. Many cities have foosball leagues that you can join, and there are also national organizations like the United States Table Soccer Organization (USTS) that you can become a member of.
- Invest in your own table: If you’re serious about foosball, you may want to consider investing in your own table. There are many different types of tables available, from basic recreational tables to high-end professional tables, so choose one that fits your skill level and budget.