North’s ultimate frisbee team is rebuilding and looking for new members. The team previously had a varsity and JV team; however, after graduating many seniors a few years ago, they have undergone some rebuilding of their team and are looking for new members before they can start competing again. The team is led by coaches Tyler and Kristin Williams.
“Ultimate combines the exciting aspects of other sports into one fast-paced game. It’s a fun, new sport to learn for students who don’t have time to commit to a varsity sport. It’s also a great off-season activity for students participating in different varsity sports,” said Tyler Williams.
Ultimate Frisbee is a game that is like soccer, football and basketball combined. It is played on the football field and has the same dimensions. Each team has seven people on the field at a time. The game is played to 13 points, and participants score by trying to reach the other team’s endzone without running — just throwing the frisbee.
“I think a lot of soccer players would find it a good sport to play, and also the flag football girls. I think it’s a great thing to do in the off-season because it’s very similar. There’s a lot of similar strategy, a lot of similar defense and running,” said Kristin Williams.
To get back in the swing of things, on May 4, the Chicago professional ultimate frisbee team, Chicago Union, is coming to North to host a clinic for anybody who might be interested in trying out ultimate frisbee. The Chicago Union will play an exhibition game from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., and the free clinic will run from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the North stadium.
Ultimate frisbee is also becoming more popular at the collegiate level. Kristin and Tyler Williams’ son plays on the University of Colorado team and travels around the country competing.
“Kids who start playing here now, if they give it a try, there are a lot of opportunities after high school,” said Kristin Williams.
Some open gyms have been held, and practices are also starting up soon. Times will be communicated by Kristin Williams when they are set. During the season, the team plays other DuKane conference schools and often competes in tournaments, as well.
“During our spring season, students need to be available for one to two practices per week, one conference game per week and one or two weekend tournaments. It’s co-ed. All grades and experience levels can play,” said Tyler Williams.
The coaches encourage people interested in playing to come to the clinic with Chicago’s professional team, and they are looking forward to having new people come out and try something new.
“So, [ultimate frisbee] is growing. We’re trying to be a part of that growth of the sport,” said Kristin Williams.
