Spirit of the Game is one of the core elements in flying disc sports. It is similar to fair play and sportsmanship, but there is a much higher emphasis put on it in Ultimate. It is summarised in this preamble to the rules of play: “All players are responsible for administering and adhering to the rules. Ultimate relies upon a Spirit of the Game that places the responsibility for fair play on every player. It …

The issue of whether the Observer system — as used in North America at the highest levels of competition — is in fundamental conflict with the “spirit of the game” of Ultimate is an ongoing debate not only in international circles and WFDF but also still in North America itself. The issue is extremely complicated and multi-faceted, and the debate is often poorly informed as too few participants understand the long historical evolution to the …

As Ultimate is a self-refereed sport, maintaining spirit of the game is essential to making the game work. And good spirit makes the game more enjoyable. At a bare minimum, ultimate players should hold themselves to the same code of conduct as referees would be expected to conform to at their level of play. The following are considered essential elements of good spirit: Know the rules Avoiding fouls and body contact Being fair-minded and respectful Having a positive attitude Showing …

The purpose of the WFDF Ultimate Spirit of the Game Committee is to promote the importance of good Spirit. SOTG Committee Members

An important part of maintaining good spirit of the game, is by providing direct feedback. Any feedback should be constructive. There are various ways that feedback can occur: Collect spirit scores at the end of each game, and award a spirit prize at the end of the competition Let you opponents know at the end of the game what spirit score you are giving them, and why. Talk to players on your own team if …

Here are some ways you can improve spirit of the game in your team: Read the rules. Write a rules quiz and test your teammates with it. Realise that there are always two perspectives to every situation, and everyone’s judgement is clouded somewhat by the outcomes they desire. When making calls, encourage your teammates to be loud and clear. Never swear or use personal attacks. Adopt a team code of conduct that outlines expected behaviour …

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)