Teqball, one of the world’s fastest-growing sports, is steadily establishing itself in Rwanda, with the recently concluded training workshop in Nyanza District. The event brought together 30 participants, 20 coaches and 10 referees. ALSO READ: Teqball: A new sport taking roots in Rwanda Held from November 14-16, the workshop was organised by the Rwanda Teqball Federation (FERWATEQ) in collaboration with the International Teqball Federation (FITEQ). It aimed to equip participants with the skills needed to build a strong foundation for Teqball across the country. Bhembe Malungisa Mfanafuthi, the president of the Eswatini Teqball Federation and a seasoned Teqball expert, led the sessions. Participants received training on the sport’s rules, gameplay techniques, and competition management. Reflecting on the workshop’s success, Mfanafuthi said, “I was impressed by the groundwork already laid by the Rwanda Teqball Federation. The participants showed great enthusiasm and knowledge, which made my work easier. I encourage them to keep learning and practicing through online resources to enhance their skills further.” According to FERWATEQ’s president Frederic Ntirenganya, the training exceeded expectations. “We achieved 90% of our objectives. The focus on coaches, referees, and young players has set the stage for teqball to grow in Rwanda. We’re now gearing up for the next step which is organizing local tournaments to build momentum,” Ntirenganya said. He highlighted the invaluable support from the Ministry of Sports, the Rwanda National Olympic Committee, and Nyanza District in making the event possible. “We’re grateful for the equipment and logistical support provided. It shows that Teqball is not just a new sport but one with potential to thrive in Rwanda,” he added. For the participants, the training was an eye-opener. Oscar Uwizeye, a coach for Nyanza FC, expressed his excitement: “This workshop gave us the tools to not only understand the sport but also to coach others effectively. I’m eager to work with young players to grow teqball in our region.” Similarly, Louise Musabyimana, a Teqball player from Nyanza, shared her enthusiasm toward the workshop and the skills they gained. “Before this training, I had never played Teqball. I now feel confident in my skills and ready to teach my peers about this exciting sport.” Currently, 17 teams across the country are actively involved in the sport, including notable teams like YDC, Intare, GSOB Indatwa, and Nyanza FC. Schools such as Petit Séminaire Virgo Fidelis de Karubanda and EP Mushirarungu are also embracing teqball, making it accessible to the youth. As Rwanda continues to integrate Teqball into its sporting ecosystem, the success of the Nyanza training highlights the sport’s growing appeal. Played on a specially designed curved table, Teqball can be played as singles or doubles. Invented in Hungary in 2014, it combines elements of football and table tennis. It officially debuted in Rwanda in July 2024 and has since been gaining traction.
