When people think of school sports, games like football, basketball, and volleyball usually come to mind. Ultimate frisbee, on the other hand, is one sport that is often overlooked, despite it being one of the most rewarding and unique sports offered at school. There are no try-outs and students on the team simply join the club.
“It is a real sport,” said head coach Christopher Lesher. “It’s the same running as soccer, and lacrosse.”
The Marist team has recently experienced some new growth through the addition of assistant coach Mr. Curtis Jones, a guidance counselor and football coach at Marist.
“If I’m being honest, I needed a couple extra dollars and ultimate was available to join,” said Jones. “But now it’s more about supporting kids and giving them a space to just have a little fun with something not as stressful as the other sports and clubs that we offer here.”
At first glance, the game seems fairly simple. Players pass a disc down the field and try to catch it in the end zone in order to score. But when one actually watches or plays, it becomes clear how much skill and practice is involved.
“We’ve been doing Monday, Wednesday, Friday practices and each day is gonna be a little bit different,” said Lesher. “Now that we have Mr. Jones to help out with coaching, he does a lot of work with footwork and drills with different offenses and defenses.”
What really makes ultimate frisbee stand out is its emphasis on respect and fairness. Players call their own fouls and settle disagreements without the help of referees, something that does not happen in other sports. This puts responsibility on the players to remain honest, even in competitive settings.
“The only people who can make the call are the 14 players who are on the field,” said Lesher. “I can’t even make a call. All I can do is help clarify what the rules are.”
Despite it being competitive, ultimate frisbee also focuses heavily on having fun. Players are encouraged to stay positive and support one another, no matter the score. This helps foster an environment where competition exists but does not take away from the overall experience.
“It’s not super competitive, but still allows you to display your athleticism and meet great people,” said Jones. “Our goal right now is to be one percent better every day.”
Ultimate is open to players of all skill levels, making it easy for new students to join and have the ability to feel like a part of the team. Whether someone is a veteran or brand new to the game, everyone has a chance to contribute.
For many, it becomes more than just a sport. It is a place where friendships are formed and players can face challenges while not facing the pressures that come with traditional sports.
Games are only scheduled on Saturdays, unlike sports such as basketball or volleyball, making it easier for students to find balance between their academics, sports, and other hobbies.
“Everyone in the area goes to one location, so that we have this community kind of feel,” said Lesher. “We play two games every week and what we do is we just rotate fields.”
While it may not always get the recognition it deserves, ultimate still continues to grow and promote the most important part about sports: having fun.
“Sometimes we get so wrapped up in the competition that we don’t enjoy the moment,” said Jones. “So if you want a sport that’s less rigorous, but still has some competitive elements, then come join ultimate frisbee.”
