Ultimate Frisbee (also known simply as “Ultimate”) is a sport that became popular on U.S. college campuses in the 1970’s. It is played on an outdoor field by two teams with a throwable flying plastic disc (a frisbee). The object is to score points by catching the disc while in your opponent’s “end zone,” an area at either end of the field.
Basic Rules
To begin the game, both teams line up on the front edge of their end zones. One team begins by throwing the disc to the other team. Whoever catches it must plant one foot: the player in possession of the disc is not allowed to run, although everyone else can. The player with the disc must then toss it to a teammate, who in turn must catch it and stop. Once the disc has been thrown, the throwing player may run. If a player catches a disc while running, he or she is allowed a couple of steps (within reason) to come to a halt before planting one foot.
Teams continue down the field, passing off the disc to one another until they reach the end zone, a clearly marked space at the end of the field. If a player catches the disc while in the opposing end zone, a point is scored and play begins again as it did at the start of the game, with the scoring team throwing to their opponents.
If a player throws the disc to a teammate and the disc hits the ground, is dropped, intercepted or batted down by an opponent, the opposing team gains possession at the spot. Play continues immediately, with the defending team going on offense. There is also a change of possession if the disc lands out-of-bounds or if a player catches it out-of-bounds.
Defenders are allowed to stand close to a thrower, attempting to deflect the throw, but are not allowed to make any contact and must give the thrower about three feet of space. The only contact allowed in the game is incidental contact when two or more players are attempting to catch the same thrown disc.
Official Play
College teams that play Ultimate must do so by specific rules. Here are some of them:
- A throwing player may only hold the disc for ten seconds before passing it to a teammate.
- Teams have seven players on each side.
- Games go to 15 points, but a team must win by two points. A team can also win by reaching 17 points.
There are more rules and some sophisticated offensive and defensive plays and setups: for more information visit one of the many websites sponsored by federations and clubs.
Tips for Backyard Ultimate Play
Not every one can join one of the many leagues and federations that have spring up to play Ultimate. For playing a fun, informal game at home, here are a few tips:
- Make sure there is plenty of space. Poorly thrown discs can go quite far!
- Clear the playing field. Ultimate gets competitive, and players may not always watch where they are going.
- For younger players, substitute something else for the disc, which can be frustrating to try and throw or catch for little kids. Try a soft football or something fun like a rubber chicken!
Sportsmanship
Above all, Ultimate is a game that stresses proper sportsmanship. In most college leagues and federations, players call their own fouls on themselves when appropriate. Many tournaments award prizes for the team with the best spirit and sportsmanship!
Want more information? The World Flying Disc Federation has an excellent website with rules, news, and how to find a club near you.
