last updated 8/24/07 by K.Nabity

About Ultimate and VOTS leagues

Ultimate Frisbee is a high energy, non-contact team sport. It combines elements of many different sports including soccer, basketball, and football. Ultimate is played on a rectangular shaped field with end zones shaped like football end zones. Each team consists of seven players. The disc is passed from teammate to teammate until somebody catches the disc in the end zone for a score.

The Valley of the Sun Ultimate Association (VOTS) organizes adult leagues (18 and up, ages 16-17 with parental waiver) in the spring and fall with two primary goals:

1. to introduce new players to the sport of Ultimate
2. to provide a place for all levels of players to play in a competitive, team-oriented atmosphere

How is league structured?

There will be a total of 16 co-ed teams, in the format of 5 men and 2 women. These teams will be split among two nights, 8 teams on Tuesday and 8 teams on Thursday, with a two crossover games. Individuals can only sign up for one night of play. Tuesday games will be played at Tempe Diablo at 6pm or 8pm. Thursday games will be played at Tempe Diablo and Mesa Riverview at 6pm or 8pm.

When does the season start and how long does it last?

All games start the week of September 10th. Those on a Tuesday team will start on September 11th and those on a Thursday team will start on September 13th. There will be two crossover games in the second half of the season, i.e. Tuesday teams will play a one game on Thursday and Thursday teams will play a one game on Tuesday. The time and structure of playoffs will be determined later in the season. A single day playoff will be held Saturday, November 17th.

Do I need to have a team to sign up?

Nope! All players sign up as individuals and are placed on teams in a manner which evens out the number of beginner, intermediate, and advanced players per team.

How much does league cost and how do I register?

• $28 if received/postmarked by Tuesday, August 28th
• $33 if received by Monday, September 3rd

Paper registrations from NEW PLAYERS will accepted at the scrimmage/clinics on Sept. 4th and 6th. See the calendar at VOTS.org for more information about these scrimmage/clinics.

Price includes registration for league, team shirt, and disc.

As per League Policy:

• Ages 18 and over are allowed to participate in VOTS-sponsored leagues.
• Ages 16-17 must have signed parental consent to participate in VOTS-sponsored leagues and must turn 16 by the last day of league finals.
• Ages 15 and below are not allowed to participate in VOTS-sponsored league.

You can register either online or by printing a registration form and mailing it or delivering at a practice or open scrimmage.

Do I need to know how to play?

Absolutely not! In fact, you don't even need to know how to throw a disc. We teach all new players the rules and strategies of Ultimate as well as the basic throws. As a new player, you (along with other new players) will be placed on a team with other moderate to experienced players who will show you the ropes and teach you the game, no matter which league you choose.

Is there anyplace to play before league starts?

Absolutely. Check out the VOTS calendar on the VOTS frontpage or call the VOTS hotline at 602-230-4139. You will hear a recorded message of all the practices/scrimmages scheduled. Listen for any labeled as 'Open'. These practices are open to all players of all levels. Also, you can also get practice/scrimmage announcements by joining the VOTS Players email list by email or by filling in the field at the top of the VOTS webpage.

What do I need to play?

You will need to bring:

1. Non-metal cleats (or tennis shoes if you don't have cleats)
2. A white and dark shirt (a team shirt will be provided for league only)
3. Water (you'll get thirsty)

Anything else?

As per General League Policies

1. VOTS discourages dogs at VOTS-sponsored leagues. If participants do bring dogs to VOTS-sponsored leagues, the owner must be aware of and abide by all applicable local leash laws.
2. Alcohol IS permitted on the field in cups and cans. No glass is allowed.
3. Any underage participant in violation of the Arizona alcohol consumption laws or any adult participant who furnishes alcohol to or purchases alcohol for an underage participant is subject to immediate suspension for a time at the determination/discretion of the board.
4. Under NO circumstances should anybody drive onto the fields.

Subject to change.

For more information, contact the league directors Laurie Starr & Marisa Jang