Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Idea of the Week- Spirit

When someone else has said it better than you could, there's no point in rehashing it.  So for the Idea of the week, I have copied some excerpts from the Hamilton Ultimate website as follows:


The Spirit of the Game (SOTG) is what distinguishes Ultimate frisbee from all other sports. It allows us to play the game competitively and fairly, obviating the need for referees, penalties and poor flow. The concept of SOTG places the responsibility of sportsmanship directly on the player. Competitive play is encouraged but never at the cost of mutual respect, adherence to the rules and enjoyment of the game. Aggressive play, intentional fouling and other ‘win at all cost’ behavior are contrary to SOTG, they must be avoided by all players. If you are playing Ultimate only to win, you just don’t get it.

End of game talks and spirit-games are not a substitute for a game played in poor spirit. SOTG should pervade through the entirety of the game. You can demonstrate spirit through a positive attitude of camaraderie within your team and with the team you are playing with. Know the rules and stick to them, avoid dangerous play and eliminate arguments. Remember to celebrate the other team, without them you would be unable to play the game. By fostering a positive environment you will end the game more satisfied than frustrated and have made a new set of friends. 




Nationals 2011

Several Club members, Alumni, and regulars attended the Australian Ultimate Championships in Brisbane over the weekend, and acquitted themselves well.  Club members Steve Wright and myself played for Tasmnaian team Quoll, Mike Baker for Melbourne team Chilly, and Eliza and Claudia for Southside.  Annie Benham, alumni of the club, also played for Southside, and UTas pickup regulars Steve Joyce and Grady joined us on Quoll.

It was the most competitive tournament in Nationals history, and as such Quoll struggled to make an impact coming in 16th, but winning the spirit award.  Baker's team made the final, but couldn't match the precision of Sydneyside team Colony after halftime.  Southside performed with competence to finish 13th in the women's draw.

More than anything, this has fuelled the fire for the Hobart-Launceston Challange, and Southern Uni Games, held on 3-7th July in Geelong.  I'm excited and happy to be playing, and we look to have a strong team in the making. Bring on SUG!

Monday, March 7, 2011

2011- The year ahead

Starting with a bang and big plans in Hobart, and the initiation of Ultimate in Launceston, 2011 is looking like a massive year.  Not least of all, we have a number of people already committed to playing at Southern uni games in Geelong, 3-7 July.

Hobart SUG Players
Eliza
Steve
Mark
Pat
Jarrah
Jack

Launceston SUG Players
Huddy
Jackie