last updated 7/31/08 by K.Nabity

Fall League 2008

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?

• Teams play a 5/2 ratio of men to women on the field each point.
• Teams are determined by draft, ensuring that every team will have a mix of experienced and new players.
• 16 teams are split between Tuesdays and Thursdays (8 teams each night).
• Tuesday games will be primarily at Riverview Park in Mesa at either 6 or 8 pm. Due to Mesa's reservation policies, some games at the end of season may be at Diablo or Scottsdale Sports Complex, but that is unlikely.
• Updated: Thursday games will be split fairly evenly between Scottsdale Sports Complex and Tempe Diablo. All games will be at 8 pm.
• Teams will play 9 or 10 of their weeknight games on their primary night. 1 or 2 games will be played on the off night.

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

The season will begin Tuesday, September 9th and Thursday, September 11th and conclude with playoffs Saturday, November 22 at Benedict Park in Tempe.

Do I need to have a team to sign up?

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

Baggage: The primary purpose of baggage is to allow players that are new to ultimate to play on a team with someone they know. Baggage requests pose an additional difficulty when selecting teams. Because games are not at the same times and in the same places, carpool baggage requests will attempt to be honored. When making a baggage request, please specify the reason for your request. Meaningful requests will take priority.

How much does league cost and how do I register?

League registration will cost $25 and includes a team shirt.

Registration can be done online, by mail, or handed in in-person at open play or at a practice.
All the details can be found on the registration page.

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 play.
• Ages 15 and below are not allowed to participate in VOTS-sponsored league.

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 light and dark shirt to open play or your league shirt to league. A shirt will be provided!
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 director.