Kenya Tchoukball Federation
The national governing body for Tchoukball in Kenya, dedicated to promoting fair play, inclusivity, and sporting excellence across all 47 counties.
Our Purpose
Guiding principles that drive everything we do at the Kenya Tchoukball Federation
Our Mission
To promote, develop, and govern the sport of Tchoukball in Kenya, fostering physical fitness, teamwork, and fair play among all age groups and communities across the nation.
Our Vision
To be the leading sports federation in Kenya, recognized globally for excellence in Tchoukball development, producing world-class athletes and promoting the spirit of fair play.
Our Goal
To establish Tchoukball as a mainstream sport in Kenya, accessible to everyone regardless of age, gender, or ability, while achieving international competitive excellence.
Our Core Values
Fair Play
Respect, sportsmanship, and ethical competition in every game
Inclusivity
Open to all ages, genders, and abilities without discrimination
Safety First
Non-contact sport with one of the lowest injury rates in sports
Excellence
Striving for the highest standards in everything we do
What is Tchoukball?
A unique team sport that combines the best elements of handball, volleyball, and squash, designed to minimize injuries while maximizing teamwork and fair play.
The Origins
Tchoukball was invented in the 1960s by Swiss biologist Dr. Hermann Brandt (1897-1972), who sought to create a sport that would minimize injuries and aggressive confrontations while promoting physical education values.
Dr. Brandt, a physician and physical education pioneer, conducted extensive scientific research on sports injuries. His groundbreaking study "Scientific Critique of Team Sports" (1970) led to the creation of tchoukball—a sport designed with injury prevention at its core.
The name "tchoukball" comes from the distinctive "tchouk" sound the ball makes when it bounces off the rebound frame. The International Tchoukball Federation (FITB) was established in Geneva, Switzerland in 1971.
Today, tchoukball is played in over 80 countries across all continents, with World Championships held every four years since 1984.
Key Features
Non-Contact Sport
No physical contact between players, reducing injury risk
No Interception
Defenders cannot intercept or steal the ball from attackers
Score on Either Frame
Teams can attack either rebound frame, adding strategic depth
Mixed Gender Play
Men and women can compete together on the same team
How to Play
Players Per Team
Each team has 7 players on court at any time
Passes Maximum
Maximum 3 passes before shooting at the frame
Steps Allowed
Players can take maximum 3 steps with the ball
Seconds to Hold
Ball must be released within 3 seconds
The 3-3-3 Rule
Remember the simple rule: 3 steps, 3 seconds, 3 passes. After receiving the ball, players can take a maximum of 3 steps, must release the ball within 3 seconds, and the team must shoot within 3 passes.
Equipment
The Ball
Size 3 handball (54-56cm circumference, 325-375g). Smaller balls used for youth categories.
Rebound Frame (Tchouk)
1m × 1m trampoline-like frame at 55° angle. The frame has an elastic net that rebounds the ball back into play.
Forbidden Zone
3-meter semicircular zone around each frame. No player may enter before or after shooting.
Court Dimensions
Indoor Court
26-29m × 15-17m (similar to handball). Standard gym floor surface.
Beach Court
22m × 12m on sand for 5-a-side beach tchoukball.
Match Duration
Three 15-minute periods with 3-minute breaks. Youth matches may use shorter periods.
How to Score
- 1Throw the ball at the rebound frame (tchouk)
- 2Ball bounces back into the playing area
- 3Defending team fails to catch the ball before it hits the ground
- +1One point awarded to the attacking team
Faults (Point to Opponent)
- Ball lands outside the playing area after rebounding
- Shooter touches the ball again after shooting
- Ball fails to hit the frame or hits the frame edge
- Player enters the forbidden zone before shooting
- More than 3 passes before shooting
Game Variations
Indoor Tchoukball
Standard 7-a-side format played on a 26-29m x 15-17m court. Three 15-minute periods with 3-minute breaks.
Beach Tchoukball
5-a-side format played on sand. Featured at European tournaments and the annual Beach Tchoukball Festival in Rimini, Italy.
Wheelchair Tchoukball
Adapted format for players with physical disabilities. Demonstrates tchoukball's commitment to inclusive sport.
Why Play Tchoukball?
Lowest Injury Rate
One of the safest team sports due to non-contact rules
Easy to Learn
Simple 3-3-3 rule makes it accessible for beginners
Truly Inclusive
All ages, genders, and abilities can play together
Builds Character
Emphasizes respect, teamwork, and sportsmanship
The Tchoukball Charter
The foundational principles that guide the spirit of Tchoukball worldwide, as envisioned by Dr. Hermann Brandt. This charter is not merely symbolic—it is a genuine framework for sporting behavior and conduct in life.
"The objective of all physical activities is not to make champions, but to contribute towards building a harmonious society."
Excellence Over Prestige
Tchoukball excludes any striving for prestige, whether individually or as a team; rather it is a sport in which players pursue excellence through personal training and collective effort.
Inclusive Participation
Tchoukball is open to players of all degrees of ability (natural or acquired) and skill. Players must adapt their approach to respect all skill levels.
Individual Responsibility
Personal attitude reflects respect for oneself, teammates, and opponents regardless of relative ability. Every player is responsible for their conduct.
Team Conduct
Outcomes should never create arrogance or sectarian rivalry. Victory brings satisfaction and encouragement, never exaggerated pride.
Complete Dedication
Players must maintain constant awareness of ball and player movements, both objectively and empathetically, subordinating individual performance to collective team needs.
Beauty of Play
The game binds players through mutual appreciation and acceptance of opposing teams. Elegant play begets elegant play. Victory should inspire respect, not convey dominance.
"Remember, no set of rules can replace a player's respect for one another and the Spirit of the Game."
This basic premise is more than just the rule of a sport—it is a rule for conduct at all times, a psychological component of behaviour, the basis of an individual's personality.
History of Tchoukball in Kenya
From humble beginnings to hosting international championships, explore our remarkable journey.
Introduction to Kenya
Tchoukball was first introduced to Kenya through sports development initiatives, sparking interest among local sports enthusiasts and educators.
KTF Founded by Kennedy Miruka
Kennedy Miruka founded the Kenya Tchoukball Federation, pioneering the sport in Kenya and East Africa.
FITB Membership
KTF became an official member of the International Tchoukball Federation (FITB), gaining international recognition.
First National Championship
Kenya organized its first official National Tchoukball Championship, marking a significant milestone in the sport's development.
First African Championship Hosted
Kenya proudly hosted the African Tchoukball Championship for the first time, putting Kenyan tchoukball on the continental map.
County Expansion
KTF expanded its grassroots program to establish branches across multiple counties, bringing tchoukball to more Kenyans.
Second African Championship
Kenya hosts the African Tchoukball Championship for the second time, showcasing the growth and development of the sport in the region.
Meet the Pioneer of Tchoukball in Kenya
The story of how one man's vision brought tchoukball to East Africa and transformed Kenya's sporting landscape.
Kennedy Miruka
Founder & President, Kenya Tchoukball Federation
Kennedy Miruka is the pioneering force behind tchoukball in Kenya and East Africa. In 2005, he founded the Kenya Tchoukball Federation (KTF) with a vision to bring this unique, non-contact team sport to the people of Kenya.
As a passionate advocate for fair play and inclusive sports, Kennedy recognized tchoukball's unique values - a sport designed by a Swiss biologist specifically to minimize injuries while maximizing teamwork, strategy, and athletic performance.
Under Kennedy's leadership, KTF has grown from a grassroots initiative to a nationally recognized federation, establishing branches across all 47 counties and successfully hosting two African Tchoukball Championships (2016 & 2024).
Key Achievements
"Tchoukball is more than just a sport - it's a philosophy of respect, teamwork, and fair play. My mission is to bring these values to every corner of Kenya and Africa."
— Kennedy Miruka
Connect with Kennedy Miruka and learn more about his vision for tchoukball in Africa.
Executive Committee
Meet the elected leaders driving the growth of Tchoukball across Kenya.
Kennedy Miruka
Founder & President
Pioneer of Tchoukball in Kenya since 2005
Founder of KTF and pioneer of tchoukball in Kenya and East Africa. Leading the federation's strategic direction, representing KTF internationally at FITB, and driving tchoukball development across Africa.
Perpetual Muthoni Mbutu
Treasurer
Managing the federation's finances, budgets, and ensuring transparent financial reporting and accountability.
John Ndung'u Njuguna
Acting Secretary
Managing federation communications, documentation, and administrative functions.
Governance Structure
KTF operates through a well-defined governance structure that separates strategic oversight from day-to-day operations, ensuring transparent, accountable, and effective management.
The President serves as Chief Executive of the Federation, chairing the Executive Committee and providing strategic leadership to the Secretariat.
General Assembly
The supreme decision-making body comprising all registered members, clubs, and stakeholders. Elects the President and approves the President's 8 Cabinet nominees for a 4-year term.
Executive Committee
The Executive Committee (EC) elected by the General Assembly to govern the Federation between GA sessions. Provides strategic oversight, policy direction, and day-to-day management.
President + 8 Elected Members:
4-year terms, max 2 consecutive terms per Constitution
Secretariat
Professional staff appointed by the Executive Committee to manage day-to-day operations and implement EC decisions. Led by the CEO who reports to the President.
One of the standing committees appointed by the Board
Events & Tournaments
Plans and executes all KTF competitions, leagues, and sporting events.
Ethics & Safeguarding
Ensures fair play, handles disciplinary matters, and protects athlete welfare.
Branding, PR & Outreach
Manages communications, media relations, and promotes tchoukball nationally.
Fundraising & Partnerships
Secures sponsorships, grants, and builds strategic partnerships for sustainability.
Business & Program Development
Develops new programs, revenue streams, and expands federation activities.
Talent Development
Identifies, nurtures, and develops athletes and coaches at all levels.
Secretariat
Implements programs and manages daily administrative operations under presidential direction.
Devolved Structure
KTF operates a devolved governance model with representation at County and Sub-County levels. This grassroots approach ensures tchoukball reaches every corner of Kenya, from urban centers to rural communities.
Separation of Powers
Clear distinction between oversight (Board) and operations (Executive Committee).
Presidential Bridge
The President uniquely serves on both bodies, ensuring alignment between strategic direction and daily execution.
Accountability Chain
Members elect President → President's Cabinet (Board) appoints committees → President directs Secretariat. Clear chain of command and responsibility.
Our Programs
Comprehensive programs designed to develop tchoukball at every level across Kenya.
Grassroots Development
Introducing tchoukball to schools and communities across all 47 counties, building the foundation for future champions.
- School outreach programs
- Community sports days
- Equipment distribution
Competitive Leagues
Organized competitions at county, regional, and national levels for players to showcase their skills and compete.
- National Championship
- Regional tournaments
- Youth leagues
National Teams
Selecting and preparing elite athletes to represent Kenya at international competitions and championships.
- Senior national team
- Youth national team
- Beach tchoukball team
Coaching & Officials
Training and certifying coaches and referees to maintain high standards across all competitions.
- Level 1-3 coaching courses
- Referee certification
- Continuous development
Talent Development
Identifying and nurturing promising young players through specialized programs and mentorship.
- Talent identification camps
- Elite training programs
- Scholarship support
Community Engagement
Using tchoukball as a tool for social development, youth empowerment, and community building.
- Sports for peace initiatives
- Youth empowerment
- Health awareness campaigns
Partnerships & Affiliations
Working together with national and international organizations to grow tchoukball in Kenya.
International Tchoukball Federation
Full member since 2009, participating in international competitions and governance.
Full MemberConfederation of African Tchoukball
Founding member and active participant in continental development programs and African Championships.
Founding MemberNational Olympic Committee of Kenya
Working towards Olympic recognition and participation in multi-sport events.
AffiliateMinistry of Sports
Registered federation under the Sports Act, receiving government support and recognition.
RegisteredKenya Schools Sports
Partnership with schools to introduce tchoukball in physical education curricula.
PartnerCorporate Partners
Working with businesses to sponsor events, equipment, and development programs.
SponsorshipsTchoukball Worldwide
From its origins in Geneva, Switzerland in 1971, tchoukball has grown into a truly global sport played across all continents.
Africa
Confederation of African Tchoukball
Growing rapidly with federations in Kenya, Cameroon, Ghana, Benin, and more. Kenya hosts the African Championships.
Europe
European Tchoukball Federation
Home to the sport's birthplace (Switzerland) and major tournaments including the Geneva Indoors and European Championships.
Asia
Asian Tchoukball Federation
The largest tchoukball region featuring powerhouses Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and India.
Pan-America
Pan American Tchoukball Federation
Developing tchoukball across North, Central, and South America with growing federations in Brazil, USA, Canada, and Argentina.
Oceania
Oceania Tchoukball Federation
Growing presence in Australia and New Zealand with active development programs and national federations.
World
International Tchoukball Federation
Founded in 1971, FITB governs global tchoukball with 80+ member nations, organizing World Championships since 1984.
Major International Events
World Championships
Every 4 years since 1984
Geneva Indoors
400+ teams from 18 countries
African Championships
Hosted by Kenya 2016 & 2024
Beach World Cup
Annual 5-a-side tournament
Aligned with Global Goals
Our programs directly contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Good Health & Well-being
Quality Education
Gender Equality
Peace & Justice
Official Resources
Access official documents, rules, forms, and educational materials to support your tchoukball journey.
Join the Tchoukball Family
Whether you're a player, coach, referee, or enthusiast, there's a place for you in the Kenya Tchoukball Federation. Start your journey today!