Professional ultimate is not necessarily new, but the proliferation of pro Ultimate leagues is. Almost a 20-year gap since Ultimate players played without financial incentive.
NOTES: "Professional" is defined as playing Ultimate for money, or prize money.
Cuervo Ultimate Championships ran from 1990 - September 1992.
American Ultimate Disc League: announced in October 2011; started play in 2012.
Major League Ultimate: announced in October 2012; scheduled to play 1st season in 2013.
Triple Crown Tour: created based on USAU's 2008-2012 strategic plan; launched in October 2012.
Nex League: announced in December 2012; scheduled to play 1st season in 2013.
|SLOG| A place for Sludge deposits. Flicking about ultimate, Frisbee, flying plastic discs, and more. (There's more?)
Monday, December 31, 2012
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Sports Marketing for Ultimate
Still trying to make sense (cents) out of which entity would best draw intere$t into the sport of Ultimate? Here's a look at the known backings of each pro/elite Ultimate leagues:
American Ultimate Disc League
Sponsorships:
Savage
Skyd
UltiCards
Video: Go Live Ultimate (in 2012)
Info: AUDL sponsorship
Major League Ultimate
Partnerships:
Five Ultimate
Video: not posted
Info: MLU partnerships
NexGen
Sponsors:
Discraft
Patagonia
Elemental
Video: NGN
Info: not posted
USA Ultimate
Sponsorships:
CORT Furniture
Discraft
Likewise skincare
Recharge sports drink
Rudy Project eyewear
Wyndham Hotels
Event sponsors: Florida Sports Foundation, Sarasota County Sports Commission, FiveUltimate, UltiPhotos, Discraft & VC Green programs
Video: NGN (Club championships in 2012) & CBS Sports Network (College championships in 2012)
Info: USAU sponsorship
American Ultimate Disc League
Sponsorships:
Savage
Skyd
UltiCards
Video: Go Live Ultimate (in 2012)
Info: AUDL sponsorship
Major League Ultimate
Partnerships:
Five Ultimate
Video: not posted
Info: MLU partnerships
NexGen
Sponsors:
Discraft
Patagonia
Elemental
Video: NGN
Info: not posted
USA Ultimate
Sponsorships:
CORT Furniture
Discraft
Likewise skincare
Recharge sports drink
Rudy Project eyewear
Wyndham Hotels
Event sponsors: Florida Sports Foundation, Sarasota County Sports Commission, FiveUltimate, UltiPhotos, Discraft & VC Green programs
Video: NGN (Club championships in 2012) & CBS Sports Network (College championships in 2012)
Info: USAU sponsorship
Friday, December 28, 2012
B.O. in 2012
After 365 days and 300+ posts in year twenty-twelve, what better way to reflect on the yesteryear? Based on reader enjoyment, here is 2012's ‘"Best"-Of’ listing from each month of SLOG postings.
* January: Ultimate Board Game & THE Ultimate Frisbee problem
* February: Master Frisbees & "ultimate" etymology
* March: iPad3 vs Frisbee & Line Chart for an Ultimate field
* April: Recap of AUDL Team Logo Reviews & LA Beaches love flying discs
* May: AUDL stats & Ultimate Disc Test
* June: Borrowing Odds at an Ultimate game & Measuring Ultimate yards
* July: CT + RI vs AUDL & Call UP, Maybe?
* August: Intimidation Styles [Chart] & Speeding up on the Pull
* September: Keep Calm & President Obama speaks "Ultimate Frisbee"
* October: How To: Be a Spectator at an Ulti game & [chart] Club Team Age/Seed: Open . Women . Masters . Mixed.
* November: Must-Have Mustache Jersey & Flying Saucer Patent
* December: City Overlap in Pro Ulti Leagues & Holiday Spirit Gift Guide
Past Best Of's: 2011 .. 2010 .. 2009 .. 2008
Gots more? Post your favorite(s) in Comments.
* January: Ultimate Board Game & THE Ultimate Frisbee problem
* February: Master Frisbees & "ultimate" etymology
* March: iPad3 vs Frisbee & Line Chart for an Ultimate field
* April: Recap of AUDL Team Logo Reviews & LA Beaches love flying discs
* May: AUDL stats & Ultimate Disc Test
* June: Borrowing Odds at an Ultimate game & Measuring Ultimate yards
* July: CT + RI vs AUDL & Call UP, Maybe?
* August: Intimidation Styles [Chart] & Speeding up on the Pull
* September: Keep Calm & President Obama speaks "Ultimate Frisbee"
* October: How To: Be a Spectator at an Ulti game & [chart] Club Team Age/Seed: Open . Women . Masters . Mixed.
* November: Must-Have Mustache Jersey & Flying Saucer Patent
* December: City Overlap in Pro Ulti Leagues & Holiday Spirit Gift Guide
Past Best Of's: 2011 .. 2010 .. 2009 .. 2008
Gots more? Post your favorite(s) in Comments.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Ultimaception
Wow, I wish all Ultimate pickup games had such a sweet info-mercial.
As the video sez: Playing ultimate Frisbee feels like a dream; it's only when you wake up that we realize it actually wasn't.
As the video sez: Playing ultimate Frisbee feels like a dream; it's only when you wake up that we realize it actually wasn't.
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
AUDL v2.0
Last week, the American Ultimate Disc League released huge news!
...Earlier this week, Mr. [Josh] Moore entered into an agreement to sell the majority interest in the AUDL to Ultimate Xperience Ventures, LLC (UXV, LLC) a company recently formed for the purpose of expanding the footprint of Ultimate at every level and developing new capabilities to optimize its core model...Five teams, unfortunately, used the very same talking point "Today, the AUDL announced major changes charting a new and exciting direction! To learn more, visit...". See below how each of the 12 AUDL teams tweeted about the gigantic news about their professional league. Detroit Mechanix and Madison Radicals were first to tweet the news on December 22nd, while Philadelphia Phoenix were last on December 23rd. New York Empire chose to retweet Ultiworld in lieu of tweeting about the breaking news themselves. FWIW, no teams RT'd the AUDL tweet.
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Friday, December 21, 2012
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Call for Nominations
Call for Nominations - SLUDGEYS 2012
Submit your nominations (anecdotes/fabrications) within calendar year 2012, factoring in the spring season + fall season, to the Awards Committee in these possible areas:
Best OBX Moment Award
Criteria: A memorable time at our happy, sandy place.
Biggest Traveler Award
Criteria: Honoring Sludge mobility on &/or off the field within &/or without the rules of Ultimate.
Biggest Best Brown Movement Award
Criteria: No criterion. Go with your gut.
Best/Most Offensive Play on Offense (Individual)
Criteria: Scoring is a big part of offense, but that’s not the only criterion for receipt of this award. In any particular game or period of a game, did someone exhibit mad throwing skills? Or incredible catching talent?? Or great cutting proficiencies? Overall common sense on offense?
Best/Most Offensive Play on Offense (Group)
Criteria: Which Sludge group play best put up the numbers en route to Sludge’s total score in a particularly impressive game?
Best/Most Defensive Play on Defense (Individual)Criteria: The best play by an individual, which was most responsible for Sludge's defensive success in a particular game.
Best/Most Defensive Play on Defense (Group)
Criteria: The best group play that was most responsible for keeping the opponent from scoring.
Most Entertaining Point/Moment (on the field or sidelines)Criteria: A moment or point, in or near the game, that resulted in laughing, crying, blushing, delirium, and/or throwing up.
Spirit of the Game Award (on the field)
Criteria: By the book, "Ultimate has traditionally relied upon a spirit of sportsmanship. In Ultimate, the honor system works..." blah, blah, blah.
Best Spirit of the Game Award (off the field)
Criteria: Karma; following the Golden Rule; by the Law, not getting arrested.
Best World Peace Award
Criteria: Best moment of someone walking away to avoid confrontation.
Most Improved/Worsened Award
Criteria: Did someone nicely recover from an injury? Basically, did someone smartly slow down the worsening process?
Best Fashion Award (on the field)
Criteria: Best fashion statement that displayed stunning presentation, style, attitude, and wonderful overall appearance to supplement the standard issue brown t-shirt. Otherwise known as the 'Wolfie' Award in honor of Chris Wolfson's furry winter hat.
Best Food Offering AwardCriteria: Best edible offering based on taste, creativity, and appearance at either a game, Sludgefest, pool party, OBX, or pickup. Otherwise known as the 'Bruce' Award in honor of his delicious oatmeal cookies.
Best Story About ‘the Bestest’ Play Award (Fiction)
Criteria: Awarded to the author of the best work of fiction about ultimate, injury, family or whatever.
Best Excuse for Missing a Game Award (Fiction or Non-fiction)
Criteria: Quality of research and writing are major considerations in the judging of this award, as are insight and originality.
#1 Fan Award
Criteria: Any one, any one, at all that attends Sludge game(s) without stealing playing time from us. Cheering is not necessarily required.
Best Sludge Addition Award
Criteria: Open to purchases, offspring, significant others &/or pickups added in the calendar year.
Best Acquisition Award
Criteria: Open to purchases, offspring, significant others &/or pickups added in the calendar year.
Best Captain Award
Criteria: Best bearded person with the initials CH who reminds us that following is a lot easier than leading.
+ Self-nominations and/or anonymous nominations are gladly accepted. Submit online or to the Awards Committee.
Submit your nominations (anecdotes/fabrications) within calendar year 2012, factoring in the spring season + fall season, to the Awards Committee in these possible areas:
Best OBX Moment Award
Criteria: A memorable time at our happy, sandy place.
Biggest Traveler Award
Criteria: Honoring Sludge mobility on &/or off the field within &/or without the rules of Ultimate.
Biggest Best Brown Movement Award
Criteria: No criterion. Go with your gut.
Best/Most Offensive Play on Offense (Individual)
Criteria: Scoring is a big part of offense, but that’s not the only criterion for receipt of this award. In any particular game or period of a game, did someone exhibit mad throwing skills? Or incredible catching talent?? Or great cutting proficiencies? Overall common sense on offense?
Best/Most Offensive Play on Offense (Group)
Criteria: Which Sludge group play best put up the numbers en route to Sludge’s total score in a particularly impressive game?
Best/Most Defensive Play on Defense (Individual)Criteria: The best play by an individual, which was most responsible for Sludge's defensive success in a particular game.
Best/Most Defensive Play on Defense (Group)
Criteria: The best group play that was most responsible for keeping the opponent from scoring.
Most Entertaining Point/Moment (on the field or sidelines)Criteria: A moment or point, in or near the game, that resulted in laughing, crying, blushing, delirium, and/or throwing up.
Spirit of the Game Award (on the field)
Criteria: By the book, "Ultimate has traditionally relied upon a spirit of sportsmanship. In Ultimate, the honor system works..." blah, blah, blah.
Best Spirit of the Game Award (off the field)
Criteria: Karma; following the Golden Rule; by the Law, not getting arrested.
Best World Peace Award
Criteria: Best moment of someone walking away to avoid confrontation.
Most Improved/Worsened Award
Criteria: Did someone nicely recover from an injury? Basically, did someone smartly slow down the worsening process?
Best Fashion Award (on the field)
Criteria: Best fashion statement that displayed stunning presentation, style, attitude, and wonderful overall appearance to supplement the standard issue brown t-shirt. Otherwise known as the 'Wolfie' Award in honor of Chris Wolfson's furry winter hat.
Best Food Offering AwardCriteria: Best edible offering based on taste, creativity, and appearance at either a game, Sludgefest, pool party, OBX, or pickup. Otherwise known as the 'Bruce' Award in honor of his delicious oatmeal cookies.
Best Story About ‘the Bestest’ Play Award (Fiction)
Criteria: Awarded to the author of the best work of fiction about ultimate, injury, family or whatever.
Best Excuse for Missing a Game Award (Fiction or Non-fiction)
Criteria: Quality of research and writing are major considerations in the judging of this award, as are insight and originality.
#1 Fan Award
Criteria: Any one, any one, at all that attends Sludge game(s) without stealing playing time from us. Cheering is not necessarily required.
Best Sludge Addition Award
Criteria: Open to purchases, offspring, significant others &/or pickups added in the calendar year.
Best Acquisition Award
Criteria: Open to purchases, offspring, significant others &/or pickups added in the calendar year.
Best Captain Award
Criteria: Best bearded person with the initials CH who reminds us that following is a lot easier than leading.
+ Self-nominations and/or anonymous nominations are gladly accepted. Submit online or to the Awards Committee.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
The F Word in Ultimate
"We still have a severe public relations problem: the sport is virtually unknown to the man on the street...I propose that our goal for the eighties should be to create a universal identification with the word 'Ultimate'. We need to get to the point where 'Ultimate' is recognized as instantaneously as the word 'Frisbee'."
--Irv Kalb
[SOURCE: Ultimate Players Association newsletter "A Goal for the 80's" (August 1980)]
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Ultimate Game Tracking
If you enjoy game statistics, then you should be aware of: Ultiworld's NexGen analysis, Ultiapps & Leaguevine. One of the basic stats of any Ultimate game is keeping score. Using this data, you can chart point progression for your team (& benefit fans). Game Point charting provides a more detailed snapshot of the game - beyond the written game recaps.
Using EXCEL and collected data of each point, here's what I developed. Game Point summaries in chart form using 3 games from Sludge's fall season:
Full game summary: vs. Unclique [11/18/12]
Game recap: 20 points were played. Sludge took an early lead & kept the lead, and then closed-out strong; win 13-7.
Full game summary: vs. Dance Cafe. [11/10/12]
Game recap: Sludge was down early but kept it close, eventually scoring the final point; win 12-11.
Full game summary: vs. This is Why I'm Hot. [11/10/12]
Game recap: A long 26-point game with Sludge losing an early lead in the first half, but completing a comeback; win 14-12.
Using EXCEL and collected data of each point, here's what I developed. Game Point summaries in chart form using 3 games from Sludge's fall season:
Full game summary: vs. Unclique [11/18/12]
Game recap: 20 points were played. Sludge took an early lead & kept the lead, and then closed-out strong; win 13-7.
Full game summary: vs. Dance Cafe. [11/10/12]
Game recap: Sludge was down early but kept it close, eventually scoring the final point; win 12-11.
Game recap: A long 26-point game with Sludge losing an early lead in the first half, but completing a comeback; win 14-12.
Sunday, December 16, 2012
DC Breeze Intro Meeting Recap
The DC Breeze Introductory meeting was held at 201 Bar's Executive Lounge on Saturday, December 15 from 4-6pm. About 25 attendees with representation from Washington Area Flying-Disc Club, local college Ultimate players, a handful of elite players, and others.
Josh Moore (AUDL President) kicked off the meeting via Skype.
Then, team owner Aaron Foreman spoke for 30 minutes, and was followed by
Thomas 'TJ' Johnson (VP of Business and Community Development), Sam
Shoyer (local high school Ultimate student/player), Tom Coffin
(GM/Coach), and Dwayne Marcus (Founder of Flag It Sports Officials). View facebook pix.
Below is a synopsis of the well-conducted meeting. Overall, the presenters stressed a commitment to winning and indicated their desire to work with individuals toward organizational efforts.
Mr. Foreman spoke on the following...
Goal(s) for 2013 season:
"We (the AUDL) have [major rental car company] as a sponsor. They'll be handling our away transportation. They're a league sponsor."
"Whether it be through ticket sales…You'll definitely have your uniforms taken care of, your transportation, your hotel, and your meals taken care of. In many ways, I'm trying to - through [the major shoe sponsor] - secure a cleat deal."
On challenges:
Tom Coffin spoke briefly about his Ultimate experience (36 years) & also had the following to say:
On the field width: "You can almost throws hucks sideways"
TJ spoke about mascot ideas, discount to season ticket holders, merchandising, hope to involve local celebrities/politicians for ceremonial 'first pull'. And, "We're not going to have a cheer leading or dance team."
Dwayne Marcus was introduced and communicated the plan to provide official training and to certify AUDL officials. In other words, the AUDL - as a professional sports league - seeks to employ professionally trained refs in the 2013 season.
Other meeting notes:
Official charity of DC Breeze = Capital Area Food Bank
Affiliate partner of DC Breeze = WAFC
[From DCB's Fb site] |
Below is a synopsis of the well-conducted meeting. Overall, the presenters stressed a commitment to winning and indicated their desire to work with individuals toward organizational efforts.
Mr. Foreman spoke on the following...
Goal(s) for 2013 season:
"To win!"
"...last year, Philadelphia and Connecticut were two of the more successful teams in the AUDL...We want to be a consistent winner"
"When they think of the Washington Redskins, they also think about the DC Breeze, the same way they think of [other DC sports teams]."
"We want to establish ourselves as a go-to, competitive championship team on a regular basis."
"We're not a multi-million dollar organization, by far. But will we be one? I believe we can. I believe everyone can benefit."
On Sponsorships/Deals:
"Final stages of securing a sponsorship with a [major footwear company]. They reached out to us (DC Breeze). We (the DC Breeze) will be the first AUDL team with a major sponsor."
For indoor practices and tryouts = API athletic fields (Crofton, MD)
"...last year, Philadelphia and Connecticut were two of the more successful teams in the AUDL...We want to be a consistent winner"
"When they think of the Washington Redskins, they also think about the DC Breeze, the same way they think of [other DC sports teams]."
"We want to establish ourselves as a go-to, competitive championship team on a regular basis."
"We're not a multi-million dollar organization, by far. But will we be one? I believe we can. I believe everyone can benefit."
On Sponsorships/Deals:
"Final stages of securing a sponsorship with a [major footwear company]. They reached out to us (DC Breeze). We (the DC Breeze) will be the first AUDL team with a major sponsor."
For indoor practices and tryouts = API athletic fields (Crofton, MD)
For home/away uniforms = Football America (Laurel, MD)
"We (the AUDL) have [major rental car company] as a sponsor. They'll be handling our away transportation. They're a league sponsor."
"We (the AUDL) are in negotiations with [hotel chain] to be our
national sponsor for room[s]."
"Another [AUDL] sponsor is Entertainment Book."
On AUDL operations:
"One thing that has been great. The league has developed
into a family. Many of the resources of the team's involved in the inaugural
season last year…we've become a family. Resources that they have belong to us
and the resources that we have, belong to them because all of the owners
realize this much - we have to get there together. We can't be, like, DC's
doing great, and you know, Toronto
suffering. If DC's not doing great and Toronto's not doing great, then that’s
not good for the league; that’s not good for you guys as players, as well. As
the sport evolves, we want to make sure that everybody benefits from it – just like
in the NFL when they have meetings about profit sharing. And why this market is
bigger than this market. I, personally, think this (DC market) is one of the best
markets – and this is my opinion."
Player Compensation
"I'll tell you what that we are going to
be investing back into our players. Pretty much this year, we're looking in
some type of way to offer compensation; for compensation in some creative
ways."
"Whether it be through ticket sales…You'll definitely have your uniforms taken care of, your transportation, your hotel, and your meals taken care of. In many ways, I'm trying to - through [the major shoe sponsor] - secure a cleat deal."
Venues
The team seeks sites with a regulation-sized
football field, preferably turf, with locker rooms & showers for both teams.
"Trying to keep [the organization's] base in DC" with these possible games sites:
- Anacostia Senior High School (SE)
- Galludet University (NE)
- Eastern High School (Capitol Hill)
- Georgetown University (G'town) - not available due to planned construction
On player eligibility:
It was discussed that DC Breeze players would be allowed to play in the local leagues, at college
and in USAU events.
"I don't want you (DC Breeze player) playing for the MLU. I
think that’s only fair to me. It doesn’t work that way…If you sign with us, I
want you to stay with with us."
On Major League Ultimate's DC team:
"Do I welcome the competition? Yeah. Who knows, maybe we
develop a rivalry with the team from the MLU. We'll have a rubber match - something people come to see." [ Maybe??? ]
On challenges:
"There will be some bumps in the road. But will we will
flatten the bumps out? Yes we will. We'll get it right."
"We want the best players. We do; we want them. We want the
top players but I'm a firm believer that - having played professional football
and having coached the high school level - I take who I have."
Other tid bits:
- "Our business model is to develop relationship with the community."
- Camps, clinics, sponsorships, having games before Breeze games, warm-up with players were some initial offerings to local high school players/teams/coaches.
- DC food trucks to be invited as concessions at home games.
- The website (http://the-dcbreeze.com/) will be up by the end of the December.
On AUDL:
"What brought me to the AUDL…this is a really unique
opportunity…it's a real revolution – a game changer. We've been playing
ultimate for decades. This is the first time professional ultimate has really
come about. We're talking about 'Seize the Moment' kind of time. There is only
a 'once', once; and this is the once."
"This game is a lot different. This game is faster, harder and much more
physical; and the offense right now is more dominant."
TJ spoke about mascot ideas, discount to season ticket holders, merchandising, hope to involve local celebrities/politicians for ceremonial 'first pull'. And, "We're not going to have a cheer leading or dance team."
Dwayne Marcus was introduced and communicated the plan to provide official training and to certify AUDL officials. In other words, the AUDL - as a professional sports league - seeks to employ professionally trained refs in the 2013 season.
Other meeting notes:
Official charity of DC Breeze = Capital Area Food Bank
Affiliate partner of DC Breeze = WAFC
Friday, December 14, 2012
City Overlap in Pro Ultimate Leagues
Unsure of what team plays in which league? See below for the 3 cities that have 1 team in each league.
UPDATED (with final logos) 4/1/2013
Sludge BLO6
Happy Blogoversary, SLOG!!!!!!
Tomorrow marks SIX years since the very first post in 2006! Now 2000 posts later, what a thrill to celebrate this landmark for the Sludge Blog ("SL-OG").
Thank you to the Ultimate Frisbee scene - foremost Sludge teammates - as constant inspiration. Thanks to visitors &/or readers of this site. This blog is meant to be fun -- just like Ultimate.
Much gratitude to top referring sites:
Tomorrow marks SIX years since the very first post in 2006! Now 2000 posts later, what a thrill to celebrate this landmark for the Sludge Blog ("SL-OG").
Thank you to the Ultimate Frisbee scene - foremost Sludge teammates - as constant inspiration. Thanks to visitors &/or readers of this site. This blog is meant to be fun -- just like Ultimate.
Much gratitude to top referring sites:
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Ultiiiiiiiimate
If this Holiday Gift list didn't pique interest, know these are the last days of Hanukkah, the 8-day Festival of Lights - for the Jewish Ultimate player in your life.
Star of David Flying "Disc"
Info: A 10" blue and white flying hexagram. Star of David proved that it's not only one of the most ancient & well recognized symbols in the world it is also one of the best flyers around!
Price: $9.95 + s/h
Star of David Flying "Disc"
Info: A 10" blue and white flying hexagram. Star of David proved that it's not only one of the most ancient & well recognized symbols in the world it is also one of the best flyers around!
Price: $9.95 + s/h
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Ultimate Holiday Spirit
Guessing the ultimate player in your life doesn't already have the Ultimate Bucket or a Frisbee or this awesome Ultimate hoody, there are other amazing gift options.
Choose from these fine sources:
Listed in alphabetical order
Sublimated Shorts Subscription [5 Ultimate]
$174. Get a new pair of shorts every month for 6 months BEFORE they debut in 5's online store! You'll have your shorts before anyone else starting in mid-January 2013. The last pair 5 sends you will be exclusive to subscribers – no one else will have them. Ever.
Sunset Pink Full Sub Tank top [Breakmark]
$40. I "tank" therefore I am. Fully sublimated Tank featuring white/pink/orange combo with two guys jumping for a disc.
Pullover by Patagonia [NexGen]
$35. The NexGen Capilene 3 Pullover is a tried & true favorite. You probably can't wear your jersey everyday but nothing beats the versatility and utility of the Cap 3.
Jersey of the Month [Savage]
$200. One year's subscription to the jersey of the month club. A limited-edition sold only to JOM subscribers will be sent out the first week of each month.
Dump + Swing Jersey [Spin]
$21.95. A jersey with icons to describe a "basic offensive strategy".
White Electro Arm Sleeve [Ultimate Peace]
$12. Perfect for protecting your oh-so-precious elbows from turf burn to sun burn. Or, maybe you just need to add a little flare to that jersey.
Coaches Clipboard Pack [UltiCards]
$59. A must-have on the sideline for any team and coach. Grab a whiteboard marker & detail plays and strategy during timeouts and practices.
Pint Glass [USAU]
$8.95. This glass holds 16oz. (less than a frisbee) and features a detailed USA Ultimate logo on its side so you can make a spirited toast every time you drink.
Wireframe Executive [VC]
$35 CAD. Show the world you mean business! This Executive collared shirt is made with VC's popular Flexlight material, & is embroidered with the VC Wireframe logo.
DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT receive compensation from mentioned websites.
Choose from these fine sources:
Listed in alphabetical order
Sublimated Shorts Subscription [5 Ultimate]
$174. Get a new pair of shorts every month for 6 months BEFORE they debut in 5's online store! You'll have your shorts before anyone else starting in mid-January 2013. The last pair 5 sends you will be exclusive to subscribers – no one else will have them. Ever.
Sunset Pink Full Sub Tank top [Breakmark]
$40. I "tank" therefore I am. Fully sublimated Tank featuring white/pink/orange combo with two guys jumping for a disc.
Pullover by Patagonia [NexGen]
$35. The NexGen Capilene 3 Pullover is a tried & true favorite. You probably can't wear your jersey everyday but nothing beats the versatility and utility of the Cap 3.
Jersey of the Month [Savage]
$200. One year's subscription to the jersey of the month club. A limited-edition sold only to JOM subscribers will be sent out the first week of each month.
Dump + Swing Jersey [Spin]
$21.95. A jersey with icons to describe a "basic offensive strategy".
White Electro Arm Sleeve [Ultimate Peace]
$12. Perfect for protecting your oh-so-precious elbows from turf burn to sun burn. Or, maybe you just need to add a little flare to that jersey.
Coaches Clipboard Pack [UltiCards]
$59. A must-have on the sideline for any team and coach. Grab a whiteboard marker & detail plays and strategy during timeouts and practices.
Pint Glass [USAU]
$8.95. This glass holds 16oz. (less than a frisbee) and features a detailed USA Ultimate logo on its side so you can make a spirited toast every time you drink.
Wireframe Executive [VC]
$35 CAD. Show the world you mean business! This Executive collared shirt is made with VC's popular Flexlight material, & is embroidered with the VC Wireframe logo.
DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT receive compensation from mentioned websites.
Labels:
wallet
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Play vs Display
After listening to Ultiworld's analytic discussion about the flood of pro Ultimate leagues, I was reminded about this wonderful book.
The author, Jay Coakley - the keynote speaker at USAU's 2011 conference - spoke about "preserving play" plus the difference between participant-oriented sports (play) and spectator-oriented sports (display).
Sports in Society - Issues and Controversies (2008)
Info: The definitive text for the sport sociology course. Taking a global, issues-oriented approach to the study of the role of sport in society, this text encourages the discussion of current sports-related controversies and helps students develop critical thinking skills.
Price: $110.58
The author, Jay Coakley - the keynote speaker at USAU's 2011 conference - spoke about "preserving play" plus the difference between participant-oriented sports (play) and spectator-oriented sports (display).
Sports in Society - Issues and Controversies (2008)
Info: The definitive text for the sport sociology course. Taking a global, issues-oriented approach to the study of the role of sport in society, this text encourages the discussion of current sports-related controversies and helps students develop critical thinking skills.
Price: $110.58
Ultimate Cleats Appreciation
[SOURCE: "TY" designed text]
TO: My Ultimate Cleats
Thank You
You may have been born as another sport's cleats, but you will always be Ultimate cleats to me.
Monday, December 10, 2012
Disc Chart
A "pie" chart of flying disc models used to play ultimate Frisbee.
NOTE: The East & West tended to use different Frisbee models until around 1978 when everyone began to use the 80 mold. The Discraft Ultra-Star is currently the USAU-approved disc.
[SOURCE: Ultimate Encyclopedia]
Friday, December 07, 2012
Ultimate Frisbee Mention in Washington Post
It's not a contribution like Jen's or a Russ Op-Ed or Rachel's WaPo contest, but The Washington Post's DC Sports Bog picked up a recent SLOG post! See below for the text & screenshot from the December 5 Morning Pixels.
CONTEST OF THE DAY
Apparently D.C. has a professional Ultimate Frisbee team (new to me), and they’re letting the fans pick their new logo. You can vote here.
The "You can vote here" link went to this SLOG post.
CONTEST OF THE DAY
Apparently D.C. has a professional Ultimate Frisbee team (new to me), and they’re letting the fans pick their new logo. You can vote here.
The "You can vote here" link went to this SLOG post.
Labels:
published
Thursday, December 06, 2012
The ESPN Benchmark for Ultimate
ESPN covered the World Frisbee Championships in the past, and has recently featured great plays like these, but also make fun of the sport. I have argued that a pro ultimate league should look beyond ESPN. Sure, it's awesome to see Ultimate on ESPN, but is it really necessary?
Well, it's interesting to see the perspectives from two leaders with a vested interest as they pursue their own professional Ultimate league.
From Jeff Snader, MLU President.
"On the home page of ESPN, under the drop-down menu that says, "More Sports" I want to see Ultimate under there..."
[Spinners Website]
From Kevin Minderhout, NexGen Founder.
"...We don’t need to be validated by ESPN."
[Ultiworld]
Well, it's interesting to see the perspectives from two leaders with a vested interest as they pursue their own professional Ultimate league.
From Jeff Snader, MLU President.
"On the home page of ESPN, under the drop-down menu that says, "More Sports" I want to see Ultimate under there..."
[Spinners Website]
From Kevin Minderhout, NexGen Founder.
"...We don’t need to be validated by ESPN."
[Ultiworld]
Wednesday, December 05, 2012
Ultimate Pickup (Saturdays)
Time for Saturday morning pickup, Ultimate players! Your attendance is always welcomed!!
Where: Polo Fields, or FDR outfields. (West Potomac Park)
When: 10am ET
Info: Bring a white, dark & cleats. If you bring a Frisbee, make sure it has your name on it.
Where: Polo Fields, or FDR outfields. (West Potomac Park)
When: 10am ET
Info: Bring a white, dark & cleats. If you bring a Frisbee, make sure it has your name on it.
Do Over: Fall 2012
A recap of Sludge's twenty-ninth Ultimate season:
Week 1: Win 15-12 (1-0)
Week 2: Loss 10-15 (1-1)
Week 3: Loss 13-15 (1-2)
Week 4: "Forfeit" (1-2)
Week 5: OBX
Week 6: Win 15-6 (2-2)
Week 7: cancelled
Week 8: Win 15-3 (3-2)
Week 9: Win 15-13 (4-2)
Pool Play: Win 12-11 + Loss 9-12 + Win 14-12 (6-3)
Tourney: Win 13-7 + Loss 12-15 (7-4)
Tuesday, December 04, 2012
DC Current Logo Contest
Major League Ultimate is currently hosting a logo contest for DC's newest professional Ultimate team - the Current.
Here are just a few of the logo submissions for DC's pro Ultimate team being judged. View all the submissions [Facebook].
Here are just a few of the logo submissions for DC's pro Ultimate team being judged. View all the submissions [Facebook].
Labels:
DC Current,
DCC,
logo,
mlu
Ultimate Life Lessons
Life lessons learned from Ultimate Frisbee
by Kasha Patel [USA Today . 12.4.12]
This could be it. That was the only thought in my head as I chased a plastic Frisbee in the end zone. The game was tied at 10-10 — whoever scored the next point would win the game and continue on to nationals. My team had been playing with only one substitute all day; our current opponent had over seven subs. My team had worked so hard to get this far, but we were tired and injured. I saw the disc flying over my head but also saw a girl on the other team rapidly approaching behind me, hoping to thwart my efforts — my team's efforts. This could be it. No, this is it. I jumped and grabbed the disc out of the air (with two hands, of course) and looked down at my feet. I was nearly four feet inbounds and immediately started crying tears of joy. I looked up and saw my team rushing toward me, jumping, cheering and crying.
That was it. That was one of the moments I realized that club Ultimate Frisbee gave me as much of an education as my math or biology classes. Looking back, I realize that I learned a lot more from my Ultimate Frisbee team than how to throw a flick or play zone defense. I entered college as a shy, awkward girl who hadn't needed to make new friends since the sixth grade. I left college as a confident, assertive adult who understood the implications of accountability and responsibility, and not just their dictionary meaning. It turns out that there are life lessons to be found from that white plastic Frisbee, the Ultimate shorts that are too long and the cheesy cheers at the end of the game.
Here are five of my favorites:
"My actions affect others." – When you drop the Frisbee during a game, the possession turns over and you and your teammates must run the length of the field, this time on defense. When someone opts not to go to a tournament at the last minute, you feel the loss of that one extra sub, especially on a small team. I learned that my actions affect other people. While my teammates may not say anything, the guilt gnawing inside of me at times was enough to make me change my behavior. To show my respect to my teammates, colleagues and professors, I committed to always come prepared, put in a full effort and appreciate others' effort and time, too.
"Only 100 more feet." – While my self-motivation often stemmed from not wanting to be the first person to throw up during the track workouts, I surprised myself in learning how mentally strong I could be. It started out with small goals such as “only 100 more feet” and eventually turned into “only one more mile.” I transferred my self-motivation skills to my homework, reading passages and even standardized practice tests. The pride that I feel after completing my goal — and knowing my words helped — is irreplaceable.
"Yes, you did foul me. Yes, I am sure." – In a self-officiated sport like Ultimate Frisbee, you have to stand up for yourself if someone fouled you, caused a pick or traveled. More importantly, you do not back down, assuming you are being honest about the call. Being put in these confrontational scenarios has helped me become more assertive and confident. The assertiveness that I learned through Ultimate has helped me become more poised, overcome my shyness in class and made me more comfortable in new social situations.
"Yes, I would like to try that." – Learning a new skill set and game proved to be more difficult than I anticipated; I was out of my comfort zone and soon decided that I was physically incapable of executing a flick throw. However, with the regimented weekly practices and expertise of my teammates and coach, I did learn how to throw a flick, hammer, push pass, high release back hand and even made up a few throws of my own. Seeing my improvement in my skills and comfort level, I felt victorious and eventually many things did not seem so impossible or absurd anymore — like running a half-marathon, spontaneously singing at my cousin's wedding with a less-than-exceptional singing voice or performing stand-up comedy.
"I've seen you run faster. You can do it." – Before I started playing Ultimate, I underestimated the value of a team’s support and usually thought of it as superficial. However, I learned faster and enjoyed the game much more when my teammates genuinely showed an interest in helping me. I may not be so lucky to always be surrounded by such supportive people, but I definitely strive to provide the same encouragement to others now. Teamwork, whether it is in school or on the field, is more than being able to tolerate the other group members; it's also helping them....
by Kasha Patel [USA Today . 12.4.12]
This could be it. That was the only thought in my head as I chased a plastic Frisbee in the end zone. The game was tied at 10-10 — whoever scored the next point would win the game and continue on to nationals. My team had been playing with only one substitute all day; our current opponent had over seven subs. My team had worked so hard to get this far, but we were tired and injured. I saw the disc flying over my head but also saw a girl on the other team rapidly approaching behind me, hoping to thwart my efforts — my team's efforts. This could be it. No, this is it. I jumped and grabbed the disc out of the air (with two hands, of course) and looked down at my feet. I was nearly four feet inbounds and immediately started crying tears of joy. I looked up and saw my team rushing toward me, jumping, cheering and crying.
That was it. That was one of the moments I realized that club Ultimate Frisbee gave me as much of an education as my math or biology classes. Looking back, I realize that I learned a lot more from my Ultimate Frisbee team than how to throw a flick or play zone defense. I entered college as a shy, awkward girl who hadn't needed to make new friends since the sixth grade. I left college as a confident, assertive adult who understood the implications of accountability and responsibility, and not just their dictionary meaning. It turns out that there are life lessons to be found from that white plastic Frisbee, the Ultimate shorts that are too long and the cheesy cheers at the end of the game.
Here are five of my favorites:
"My actions affect others." – When you drop the Frisbee during a game, the possession turns over and you and your teammates must run the length of the field, this time on defense. When someone opts not to go to a tournament at the last minute, you feel the loss of that one extra sub, especially on a small team. I learned that my actions affect other people. While my teammates may not say anything, the guilt gnawing inside of me at times was enough to make me change my behavior. To show my respect to my teammates, colleagues and professors, I committed to always come prepared, put in a full effort and appreciate others' effort and time, too.
"Only 100 more feet." – While my self-motivation often stemmed from not wanting to be the first person to throw up during the track workouts, I surprised myself in learning how mentally strong I could be. It started out with small goals such as “only 100 more feet” and eventually turned into “only one more mile.” I transferred my self-motivation skills to my homework, reading passages and even standardized practice tests. The pride that I feel after completing my goal — and knowing my words helped — is irreplaceable.
"Yes, you did foul me. Yes, I am sure." – In a self-officiated sport like Ultimate Frisbee, you have to stand up for yourself if someone fouled you, caused a pick or traveled. More importantly, you do not back down, assuming you are being honest about the call. Being put in these confrontational scenarios has helped me become more assertive and confident. The assertiveness that I learned through Ultimate has helped me become more poised, overcome my shyness in class and made me more comfortable in new social situations.
"Yes, I would like to try that." – Learning a new skill set and game proved to be more difficult than I anticipated; I was out of my comfort zone and soon decided that I was physically incapable of executing a flick throw. However, with the regimented weekly practices and expertise of my teammates and coach, I did learn how to throw a flick, hammer, push pass, high release back hand and even made up a few throws of my own. Seeing my improvement in my skills and comfort level, I felt victorious and eventually many things did not seem so impossible or absurd anymore — like running a half-marathon, spontaneously singing at my cousin's wedding with a less-than-exceptional singing voice or performing stand-up comedy.
"I've seen you run faster. You can do it." – Before I started playing Ultimate, I underestimated the value of a team’s support and usually thought of it as superficial. However, I learned faster and enjoyed the game much more when my teammates genuinely showed an interest in helping me. I may not be so lucky to always be surrounded by such supportive people, but I definitely strive to provide the same encouragement to others now. Teamwork, whether it is in school or on the field, is more than being able to tolerate the other group members; it's also helping them....
Best Shot
A sponsored league for elite Ultimate players happened back in the early 1990's. Remember?
The Cuervo Ultimate Championships!
"I'm convinced that Ultimate players have always been their own worst enemies. The irreverence and rebelliousness, the self-regulation, lack of structure and the fights - everything that made Ultimate so fun to play were the things that made it impossible to sell. If you can't sell the sport to a tequila company, who can you sell it to?"
-- Dee Rambeau [Organizer of the Cuervo Ultimate Championships (1990-1992)]
[SOURCE: The Ultimate Encyclopedia]
The Cuervo Ultimate Championships!
"I'm convinced that Ultimate players have always been their own worst enemies. The irreverence and rebelliousness, the self-regulation, lack of structure and the fights - everything that made Ultimate so fun to play were the things that made it impossible to sell. If you can't sell the sport to a tequila company, who can you sell it to?"
-- Dee Rambeau [Organizer of the Cuervo Ultimate Championships (1990-1992)]
[SOURCE: The Ultimate Encyclopedia]
Monday, December 03, 2012
Ultimate Frisbee Poem (1980)
Ultimate
By Gary Stroick (Madison, WI)
Source: UPA [USAU] Newsletter November 1980
the disk is thrown
caught
the body moves smoothly,
flawlessly as i pivot
back and forth
the muscles ripple
under the skin
I feel power
I feel ecstasy
the release
i am ready
i am prepared
the throw starts with
lightning speed
i am one with the disk
as it rolls of my fingertips
i run
the flight
it is a thing of beauty,
the disk
sailing straight, flat,
and true
it caresses the wind
knowing that they are one
it flies
the catch
concentration
eye on the disk
feet pounding
acceleration
a beautiful sight,
the flight
muscles aching
sweat pouring
i dive
i extend
to reach
the disk
my hands
it's there
it's caught
the excitement
the wonder
the play
##
By Gary Stroick (Madison, WI)
Source: UPA [USAU] Newsletter November 1980
the disk is thrown
caught
the body moves smoothly,
flawlessly as i pivot
back and forth
the muscles ripple
under the skin
I feel power
I feel ecstasy
the release
i am ready
i am prepared
the throw starts with
lightning speed
i am one with the disk
as it rolls of my fingertips
i run
the flight
it is a thing of beauty,
the disk
sailing straight, flat,
and true
it caresses the wind
knowing that they are one
it flies
the catch
concentration
eye on the disk
feet pounding
acceleration
a beautiful sight,
the flight
muscles aching
sweat pouring
i dive
i extend
to reach
the disk
my hands
it's there
it's caught
the excitement
the wonder
the play
##
Labels:
usaU
Saturday, December 01, 2012
Do Over: November 2012
Catch up on last month's noteworthy posts you may have missed...
Twitter Convo from Forty Years Ago. RE: College Ultimate
C'mon it's 2012, time to Scoober
License to Huck
As Alfred Lord Tennyson meant to say...Tis better to have played Ultimate...
Friday, November 30, 2012
Gangnam Style
$125,000 for an MLU investment share!!! The President of Major League Ultimate - Jeff Snader - cast in Gangnam Style. Enjoy!
View the video here, or watch below.
View the video here, or watch below.
Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Did You Frisbee today?
Another classic WHAMO printed advertisement: "Did you Frisbee today?" Appears to have a Master series disc hanging on the bedpost.
The ad reads 'If it's not by Wham-o, it's not a Frisbee.' - a bit different from another ad.
The ad reads 'If it's not by Wham-o, it's not a Frisbee.' - a bit different from another ad.
Labels:
advertising,
wham-o
Eat More Beer
Another beer night has been scheduled! Tonite, you are asked to taste first; then drink.
When: Thursday, Nov 29 @ 7pm or so.
Where: Joe's house
Info: Bring one or two samples of beers that you haven't yet tried, just saw for the first time, etc., & we'll all get to taste them together. Joe will provide some edible type things to chew along with the tasting and we can declare a winning beer at the end of the evening.
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