Is Ultimate Frisbee just limited to being played with family and friends, casually – or is there more to this game? What is Ultimate Frisbee? We look to dive into this question.
What is Ultimate Frisbee?
Ultimate, also known as Ultimate Frisbee is a team sport played with a disc (commonly known as a frisbee). It brings together elements of football, rugby and basketball, while also adapting and adding its own rules, especially the intrinsic value of the spirit of sportsmanship.
What is the objective of Ultimate Frisbee?
The objective of ultimate frisbee is for two teams to score points by passing the disc to teammates and completing a pass in the opposing team’s end zone. Just like basketball, players cannot run with the disc – they must stop and establish a pivot foot when in possession of it. They then have 10 seconds to throw the disc to another teammate. If a pass is incomplete, intercepted, or hits the ground, it results in a turnover and the opposing team gains possession.
Read here for:
Size of an Ultimate Frisbee field?
Ultimate frisbee is typically played on a rectangular field with end zones at each end. The field dimensions may vary depending on the level of play, but the standard field size for a regulation game is 100 metres by 37 metres, which includes end zones that are 18 metres deep.
The special aspect of Ultimate Frisbee
One of the unique aspects of ultimate frisbee is its’ self-officiating principle. Players are responsible for making their own calls and resolving disputes through respectful communication. This spirit of fair play and honesty is known as the “spirit of the game” and is highly valued in ultimate frisbee. Personally, when I first saw this, it was a refreshing change – it showed how well-followed and important these values were.
Playing Ultimate Frisbee
Ultimate frisbee can be played in various formats, including casual pickup games, leagues, tournaments and even professional leagues – I remember first playing it during a family picnic when I was probably 6 years old! What I like is that it’s a non-contact sport, with players focusing on agility, speed, throwing accuracy, and strategic positioning to outmanoeuvre their opponents.
(ps. we plan to share more about all the leagues and tournaments soon, so watch this space)
The sport also promotes gender equity and inclusivity. Many ultimate frisbee leagues and tournaments offer mixed-gender divisions, where teams consist of both male and female players on the field simultaneously.
Ultimate frisbee has a thriving global community, with organised leagues and events taking place in numerous countries. It is known for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, where players of all ages and skill levels can enjoy the game together.
Why I like going to Ultimate Frisbee games
Having been to many league games in Mumbai, I’m always in awe of the skills ultimate players have, because it is a fast-paced, dynamic and an exciting sport to play (and watch!) that combines athleticism, strategy, focus and the joy of throwing and catching a flying disc. Maybe, one day I’ll catch you playing, or watching along!
————–
Building on this, we here at School of Ultimate wish to help contribute and grow this Ultimate game, by sharing the principles, rules and coaching it in our practical sessions in Mumbai.
To know more, check out our About Us page.
