Teqball, a football-inspired sport that blends the skill and strategy with a unique twist, is steadily gaining momentum in Rwanda. Played on a specially curved table, Teqball challenges athletes and enthusiasts to sharpen their technical skills, focus, and endurance. Since its inception in Hungary in 2012, the sport has rapidly spread across the globe, known for being gender-equitable and playable in both singles and doubles formats. How Teqball is played Teqball is a non-contact sport, meaning players must rely solely on their skill and precision to outplay their opponents. The game is played using a points-based scoring system, where players are allowed a maximum of three touches before returning the ball to the other side of the curved table. This unique feature of Teqball not only reduces the risk of injury but also emphasizes agility and quick decision-making. The game is versatile and can be played on various surfaces, making it accessible to a wide range of athletes. Whether played indoors or outdoors on grass, sand, or court, Teqball offers a dynamic and exciting experience for players. Teqball in Rwanda Teqball came to Rwanda in 2021, marking a significant step in the country's sports landscape. However, it wasn’t until July 2024 that the Rwanda Teqball Federation was formally established, with its headquarters situated in Nyanza District, Southern Province. The establishment of the federation signaled a commitment to developing and promoting the sport nationwide. On August 25, the federation took a major step forward by organizing a training session designed to introduce the sport’s rules and regulations to local coaches, referees, and athletes. Frederic Ntirenganya, the president of the Rwanda Teqball Federation, opened the session, emphasizing the importance of this foundational training. “This basic introduction to Teqball's rules and regulations will significantly enhance the athletes' knowledge of the sport,” Ntirenganya said. “Our goal is to ensure that both coaches and players understand the game thoroughly, which will ultimately raise the standard of Teqball in Rwanda.” Diverse participation in training The training session attracted a diverse group of 21 participants, including 11 coaches and referees, as well as 10 players from various Teqball clubs across the country. This blend of coaches and active players fostered a collaborative learning environment, where the exchange of ideas and experiences contributed to a deeper understanding of the sport. The inclusion of both coaches and players in the training is a strategic move by the federation. By equipping coaches with the necessary skills and knowledge, the federation ensures that players receive high-quality training. Meanwhile, the players’ involvement in the training process allows them to grasp the technical and tactical aspects of Teqball, paving the way for more competitive matches. The future of Teqball in Rwanda Looking ahead, the Rwanda Teqball Federation plans to host more training sessions and competitions to further popularize the sport. The federation's efforts are focused on building a strong foundation for the sport, with the long-term goal of seeing Rwandan athletes compete on the international stage. “Our vision is to make Teqball a household name in Rwanda,” Ntirenganya explained, adding that, “We believe that, with the right support and commitment, Rwanda can produce top Teqball players who will shine in international competitions.” As the sport continues to grow, Teqball offers a new and exciting avenue for Rwandan athletes to showcase their talents, develop new skills, and engage with a global sporting community.
