CHAPTER 5

Introduction to Ultimate Frisbee

Chapter Overview
This chapter welcomes you to the exhilarating
world of Ultimate Frisbee, a dynamic and fast-paced sport
that combines elements of soccer, basketball, and football
with the unique twist of using a flying disc. In this chapter,
we will embark on a comprehensive exploration of Ultimate
Frisbee, covering fundamental aspects that will deepen
your understanding and appreciation of the game. We Image credit to: www.latimes.com
begin by delving into the history and origins of Ultimate
Frisbee, tracing its evolution from a casual pastime to a
globally recognized sport. As we progress, we'll unravel the
essential rules and regulations that govern the game,
ensuring a solid foundation for players and enthusiasts.
From the basic techniques of throwing and catching to
advanced strategies for offense and defense, each section
provides practical insights to enhance your skills on the
Ultimate Frisbee field. Furthermore, we'll examine the
unique spirit of the game, emphasizing sportsmanship, fair
play, and a community-driven ethos that sets Ultimate
Frisbee apart.

TOPICS

Origin and Background of Ultimate Frisbee

Image credit to: topendsports
Facility and Equipment

Playing Rules and Regulations

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LESSON 1

Origin and Background of Ultimate Frisbee

Intended Learning Outcomes:

A. Identify the key historical periods of Frisbee.
B. Examine the impact of the key individuals on the
cultural, historical and ethical development Frisbee.
C. Outline the key events, developments, and
changes within Frisbee.

ACTIVATE:
Think of the following sports: soccer, basketball, and
football. How do you think these sports are being played?
What do you think will happen if these sports are combined?

ACQUIRE:
Introduction to Ultimate Frisbee Image credit to: discsporthistory.files.wordpress.com

Ultimate Frisbee, often referred to simply as 1987 - First World Ultimate Club Championship:
Ultimate, has a rich history that spans several decades. Here The first World Ultimate Club Championship (WUCC)
are some key historical events and milestones in the was held in Cologne, Germany, in 1987. This event
development of Ultimate Frisbee: brought together club teams from around the world,
showcasing the global appeal of the sport.
1968 - Birth of Ultimate:
The sport of Ultimate is said to have originated in 1968 at 1989 - First World Ultimate Championship:
Columbia High School in Maplewood, New Jersey. A group The first World Ultimate Championship (WUC),
of students, led by Joel Silver, Brian Goff, and others, featuring national teams, was held in Toronto,
developed the game as a new, fast-paced alternative to Canada, in 1989. This event marked a significant step
traditional sports. in establishing Ultimate as an international sport.

1968 - First Game: 1993 - Gender Equity:

The first official game of Ultimate took place at Columbia The UPA adopted a policy of gender equity, ensuring
High School in 1968. The game involved two teams of eight equal opportunities for men and women in Ultimate
players each, and it followed the basic principles that form competitions. This commitment to gender equity
the foundation of Ultimate today. has been a defining feature of the sport.

1970 - Spread to Colleges: 2010 - Recognition by the International Olympic

Ultimate gained popularity on college campuses in the early Committee (IOC):
1970s. The first intercollegiate game is believed to have Ultimate Frisbee received provisional recognition
been played between Rutgers and Princeton in 1972. from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in
2010, a significant acknowledgment of the sport's
1979 - Formation of the Ultimate Players Association global reach and competitiveness.
(UPA):
The Ultimate Players Association (now known as USA 2012 - Name Change to USA Ultimate:
Ultimate) was established in 1979. This organization played In 2012, the Ultimate Players Association officially
a crucial role in standardizing rules, promoting the sport, and changed its name to USA Ultimate, reflecting the
organizing national competitions. growth and maturation of the sport.

1983 - First College Nationals:

The UPA hosted the first College National Championship in
1983, marking a significant milestone in the growth and
recognition of Ultimate as a competitive collegiate sport.

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Key Individuals in Ultimate Frisbee

Several key individuals have played pivotal Dan "Stork" Roddick:

roles in the development and popularization of Dan Roddick, nicknamed "Stork," was a significant
Ultimate Frisbee as a sport. While the game was ambassador for Ultimate Frisbee. He contributed to
collectively created and refined by many participants, the growth of the sport through his involvement in
certain figures stand out for their significant the UPA and his efforts to popularize Ultimate
contributions: around the world.

Joel Silver: Michael E. Iacovella:

Michael E. Iacovella was involved in the early days
Joel Silver is often credited as one of the founders of of Ultimate and played a role in shaping the sport.
Ultimate Frisbee. Along with other students at He was a key figure in organizing the first College
Columbia High School in Maplewood, New Jersey, National Championship in 1983.
Silver was instrumental in creating and shaping the
early rules and dynamics of the game. Tom Schot:
Tom Schot was an influential figure in the
Joan Xavier and Buzzy Hellring: international development of Ultimate. He played a
Joan Xavier and Buzzy Hellring, both teachers at crucial role in organizing the first World Ultimate
Columbia High School, supported the students in the Club Championship (WUCC) in 1987.
development of Ultimate Frisbee. They provided
guidance and resources that helped the game take These individuals, among others, contributed
root and spread. significantly to the formative years of Ultimate
Frisbee, helping it evolve from a casual game to a
Walter Morrison: structured and globally recognized sport. Their
While not directly involved in the creation of efforts have left a lasting impact on the Ultimate
Ultimate, Walter Morrison is credited with inventing community and have contributed to the sport's
the modern Frisbee. His flying disc design became the continued growth and popularity.
basis for the plastic discs used in Ultimate.

Tom Kennedy:
Tom Kennedy, a student at Columbia High School,
played a key role in formalizing and documenting the
rules of Ultimate. His efforts contributed to the
establishment of a structured framework for the
game.

Ken Westerfield and Jim Kenner:

Ken Westerfield and Jim Kenner were influential in
promoting Ultimate Frisbee and freestyle Frisbee
during the 1970s. They organized events, showcased
the sport, and helped elevate its profile.
Image credit to: assets.sutori.com
Tom "TK" Kennedy:
Tom "TK" Kennedy was an early player and advocate
for Ultimate. He not only contributed to the
establishment of the initial rules but also played a
role in the growth of Ultimate at the collegiate level.

Tom Crawford:
Tom Crawford was a key figure in the formation of
the Ultimate Players Association (UPA), later
renamed USA Ultimate. He played a crucial role in
organizing and standardizing the rules of the game.

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Key Developments in Ultimate Frisbee
Ultimate Frisbee has undergone various
developments and changes since its inception, evolving
from a casual game to a structured and internationally
recognized sport. Here are key developments and
changes that have shaped Ultimate Frisbee:

Standardization of Rules:
In the early years, Ultimate had informal and varied
rules depending on the location and players. The
standardization of rules was crucial in providing a
consistent framework for the game. The Ultimate
Players Association (UPA), now USA Ultimate, played a
pivotal role in establishing and refining these rules.
Image credit to: cdn.cdnparenting.com
Formation of Governing Bodies:
The establishment of governing bodies, such as USA
Mixed Division Growth:
Ultimate and the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF),
The mixed division, featuring teams with both male
brought structure and organization to the sport. These
and female players, has grown in popularity. It
bodies oversee the development of rules, organize
emphasizes inclusivity and collaboration between
tournaments, and promote the growth of Ultimate
genders, contributing to the sport's reputation for
internationally.
progressive values.
Introduction of Gender Equity:
Youth and College Development:
Gender equity has been a significant focus in the
development of Ultimate. The sport has been at the There has been a concerted effort to develop
forefront of promoting equal opportunities for men and
Ultimate at the youth and college levels. Initiatives
women, both in terms of playing time and leadership
and programs targeting schools and universities have
roles within teams.
played a role in introducing the sport to a new
generation of players.
Expansion of Tournaments:
The growth of Ultimate is evident in the expansion of
Technological Advancements:
tournaments at various levels. Collegiate
Technology has played a role in the development of
championships, national championships, and
Ultimate, from improved disc design to the use of
international competitions have become regular
video analysis for training purposes. Technological
fixtures, showcasing the sport's competitiveness and
advancements have enhanced the overall experience
global appeal.
for players and spectators.
World Ultimate Club Championships (WUCC):
Community Engagement and Outreach:
The establishment of the World Ultimate Club
The Ultimate community has actively engaged in
Championships (WUCC) in 1987 provided a platform for
outreach and community-building efforts. Clinics,
club teams from around the world to compete at an
youth programs, and community leagues have
international level. This event has played a crucial role
contributed to the growth of the sport at the
in fostering a global Ultimate community.
grassroots level.
Inclusion in Multi-Sport Events:
These developments highlight the dynamic
Ultimate Frisbee has gained recognition in multi-sport
and evolving nature of Ultimate Frisbee. The sport
events. While not yet part of the Olympic Games, it has
continues to adapt and progress, with a strong
been featured in events such as the World Games,
emphasis on inclusivity, sportsmanship, and global
showcasing the sport to a broader audience.
collaboration.
Spirit of the Game Emphasis:
The "Spirit of the Game" has been a defining principle
in Ultimate. Players are responsible for their own
conduct on the field, promoting sportsmanship, fair
play, and mutual respect. This unique aspect of
Ultimate sets it apart from many other sports.

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