This is a short take on the rules of Ultimate Frisbee for beginners. We won’t cover every detail! The goal is to get you playing right away. We will cover the outdoor rules. If you want to view the complete rules check out the official site of the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF).
How to play Ultimate Frisbee for beginners:
- 7 players on each side
- field has an end zone on each side
- Points can be scored by catching the disc in the end zone
- You can’t run with the Disc
- Ultimate Frisbee is a non-contact sport
- There are no referees
- Throw the disc within 10 seconds
- If the disc touches the ground or goes out-of-bounds it is a turnover
The following post is structured by commonly asked questions. This post is for beginners who want to get started quickly and play for fun. Let me know if you have any additions.
How does Ultimate Frisbee start?
It starts with a so called throw-off. The defending Team throws the disc as far into the other half of the field as they can. The attacking Team tries to catch it or they can start playing where the disc landed or left the field.
After each point the disc is thrown by the team that scored the point.
Can I tackle in Ultimate Frisbee?
In short, no it is not allowed to tackle. Ultimate Frisbee is a non-contact sport. If a player gets tackled a foul can be called. The case is then discussed by the two involved players. Make sure to play responsible and respect your opponent.
Does Ultimate Frisbee have referees?
No, Ultimate Frisbee is played without referees. If a player spots a foul or is involved in one she or he can call it out. The case is then discussed by the two involved players. If both agree that the outcome would be the same with or without the foul the play stands. If they disagree the disc is returned to the thrower for a check.
What Field is Ultimate Frisbee played on?
The playing field is 100 meters long and 37 meters wide. Both end zones are 18 meters long. This results in a length between the two end zones of 64 meters. The end zones are marked with bright plastic objects (cones) on every corner.
When does an Ultimate Frisbee game end?
The game ends when one team scores fifteen (15) goals. The game is separated in two half. When one team scores eight (8) goals the first half of the game ends. After each other goal score the game is continued immediately.
Which Disc to play Ultimate Frisbee?
Basically any disc can be used, if both captains of the each team accept the disc. There is an official list from the WFDF which recommends discs to play with. In the following only the pro level discs are listed (I know you want the official gear right away).
Official Discs for Ultimate Frisbee are:
- Discraft UltraStar, Westland Mold – Hot Stamp
- Discraft UltraStar, Westland Mold – Supercolor Center
- Discraft UltraStar, Web Mold – Hot Stamp
- Discraft UltraStar, Web Mold – Supercolor Center
- Discraft, UltraStar, Web II – Hot Stamp
- Daredevil Gamedisc
- EuroDisc 175g 4.0 Organic – Hot Stamp
- X-COM Ultimate Standard – Hot Stamp
- Yikun, UltiPro
If you want to show support, you can buy an official disc through this affiliate link: Discraft UltraStar, Westland Mold – Hot Stamp
I will always tell you if I include an affiliate link. This won’t cost you more. If you don’t want to buy it through this link feel free to do so.
Do you have any further questions about the Ultimate Frisbee Rules?
Frisbee Dude 