A Wonderful Weekend in Poland – TMGG Season Finale in Poznan – International Table Football Confederation Official Website

Words by István Mártonfi, President of the ITFC

On June 28th, I had the pleasure of participating in the season-closing tournament organized by TMGG near Poznań (Poland) at Kaminsk Novel House. In short – it was fantastic. A heartfelt thank you to my Polish friends for the warm welcome, great matches, fun moments, delicious food, meaningful conversations, and a bit of sightseeing too. But let’s take it step by step.

Unfortunately, my good friend János Benkő couldn’t join due to an accident. So I set off on this Polish adventure solo – a 10 to 11-hour car ride, crossing mountain ranges, and then suddenly, I was there. The destination was a beautiful estate just outside Poznań in the Zielonka forest– truly an impressive venue.

On Friday afternoon, the Polish “button football” kicked things off with a doubles tournament. Many players already knew me, and those who didn’t greeted me with genuine friendliness. Whatever politics may say, the truth is: Hungarians and Poles are true friends. It’s not politics that define us – it’s people.

Friday night was full of joy and laughter, with dinner and long conversations stretching until midnight. A truly memorable evening. I’ve played few training match with Jakub, I tried to learn few tricks about hot to flick the plasyers.

Saturday was tournament day. 45 participants – that’s a full house! Everyone was happy, and so was I. Many familiar faces, many new players, and lots of children. That always warms my heart. Seeing the next generation enjoying table football is one of the best feelings.

As for my matches: In my first game, two shots hit the post – I lost 1-0. The second match ended 0-2, even though I had chances. Tactically I felt good, but I’m still not used to the feel of the buttons in this variant. Despite several games on Friday night, my touch wasn’t quite there. Third match: 0-4. Fourth match: 0-0. Then, finally, I won 1-0. It’s coming together…

But I didn’t go there to win. Maybe for sports diplomacy, maybe out of curiosity. No – I went because I love table football, and I wanted to try this format too. Everyone knows sectorball is closest to my heart – I still believe it’s the most tactical version of the game. But every version has its own charm and beauty.

I also play the Brazilian-origin 12-touch game, where I’ve had some minor successes. I’ve tried and play chapas, played subbuteo, enjoyed the Hungarian retro style, and I must mention how much I love the Catalan button football as well. So, the Polish style marks the seventh version I’ve tried – maybe even more if I count my childhood experiments.

But back to Poznań. The tournament was won by Andrej Hreczyn who became the Champion, after an intense battle. It was high-level play and a real professional mindset. I loved seeing that. Because make no mistake – once the game begins, everyone wants to win. That’s sport, ladies and gentlemen. Not just a game. It’s sport.

Saturday night continued with an open fire and good spirits – again, Hungarian-Polish friendship at its best. On Sunday, my host Jakub took me on a tour of Poznań. Once again – thank you for everything. The next round’s on me!

On the way home, I made a short stop in Wrocław, then drove straight through to Gödöllő – via Poland, Czechia, Slovakia, and finally Hungary. I can honestly say it was a wonderful weekend surrounded by great people, filled with love and passion for the game of table football.

The tournament was excellent – as were the venue and the entire atmosphere. I am sure this won’t be the last time we meet in Poznan!