Spirit of the Game (SOTG) is at the heart of Ultimate and is a defining characteristic of the sport. With no referees, Ultimate relies on the Spirit of the Game, placing the onus of sportsmanship and honourable play on the players themselves.
Spirit of the Game: Ultimate relies upon a spirit of sportsmanship that places the responsibility for fair play on the player. Highly competitive play is encouraged, but never at the expense of mutual respect among competitors, adherence to the agreed upon rules, or the basic joy of play. Protection of these vital elements serves to eliminate unsportsmanlike conduct from the Ultimate field. Such actions as taunting opposing players, dangerous aggression, belligerent intimidation, intentional infractions, or other win-at-all-costs behavior are contrary to the spirit of the game and must be avoided by all players.” USAU 11th Edition Rules, Rule 1.b.
Playing with spirit means you play to win, but while respecting yourself, teammates, opponents and the game itself. You understand and learn the rules, and play with integrity and honesty in mind.
Be Calm Strategy
Breathe | don’t react straight away
Explain | what you think happened
Consider | what they think happened
Ask | other players for advice (on perspective and rules) if needed
Listen | to what everyone has had to say
Make a call | loudly and clearly (and use Hand Signals)
