Ultimate is a non-contact sport played with a frisbee (disc) by two seven player teams. The object of the game is to score goals. The disc may only be moved by passing (the thrower is not allowed to take any steps). Any time a pass is incomplete, intercepted, knocked down or contacts an out-of-bounds area, a turn-over occurs, resulting in an immediate change of possession of the disc. A goal is scored when a player successfully passes the disc to a teammate in the endzone which that team is attacking.

The "Ten Simple Rules" explain it best... [© Ultimate Players Association, 1993]

1. The Field -- A rectangular shape with endzones at each end. A regulation field is 70 yards by 40 yards, with endzones 25 yards deep.

2. Initiate Play -- Each point begins with both teams lining up on the front of their respective endzone line. The defense throws ("pulls") the disc to the offense. A regulation game has seven players per team.

3. Scoring -- Each time the offense completes a pass in the defense's endzone, the offense scores a point. Play is initiated after each score.

4. Movement of the Disc -- The disc may be advanced in any direction by completing a pass to a teammate. Players may not run with the disc. The person with the disc ("thrower") has ten seconds to throw the disc. The defender guarding the thrower ("marker") counts out the stall count.

5. Change of possession -- When a pass in not completed (e.g. out of bounds, drop, block, interception), the defense immediately takes possession of the disc and becomes the offense.

6. Substitutions -- Players not in the game may replace players in the game after a score and during an injury timeout.

7. Non-contact -- No physical contact is allowed between players. Picks and screens are also prohibited. A foul occurs when contact is made.

8. Fouls -- When a player initiates contact on another player a foul occurs. When a foul disrupts possession, the play resumes as if the possession was retained. If the player committing the foul disagrees with the foul call, the play is redone.

9. Self-Refereeing -- Players are responsible for their own foul and line calls. Players resolve their own disputes.

10. Spirit of the Game -- Ultimate stresses sportsmanship and fair play. Competitive play is encouraged, but never at the expense of respect between players, adherence to the rules, and the basic joy of play.

Further details about Ultimate in this area, it can be found at: www.vul.bc.ca or www.bcdss.bc.ca

If you're just learning, check out this site: www.ultimatehandbook.com

NOTE: By far, the most important rule is #10. This is what makes Ultimate different from any other sport you've played. Have Fun!!!

GOALTIMATE is another Disc sport that we will be playing. Learn how to play Goaltimate.