The season is just starting, club players are coming out of pick-up hibernation and starting to hit the track in anticipation for another lengthy club season. LA Metro recently had two pick-up sessions in which we saw over 50 players participate. It is a tough job to be a captain these days, and with the formation of a new coed team in the LA area, good talent is scarce, but I think we will be fine. Here is our tentative schedule for the next month or two.
May 30-May 31
Santa Barbara Classic, Goleta, CA
10-12 teams competing in a warm up tournament for all teams. Metro will be sending two teams of 20 (wowsers). We will be treating this tournament as a tryout for those who are new in anticipation for Cal States, where we will field a much leaner and meaner team.
June 5-June 6
Cal States, Santa Cruz, CA
This is by far my favorite tournament in the Ultimate circuit (minus Nationals). The weather is generally perfect at this time, the field is beautiful, and you get a great view of the ocean. That said, the competition is all but beautiful. This is predominantly every club team's main "try-out" tournament and although teams do not have the full chemistry yet, it's a very high level tournament that we've placed 2nd and 3rd in the '08 and '09 respectively. I'm also looking forward to spending time at home with the parents. Always nice to be back home.
June 12-13 or 19-20
Final Tryout
We will be holding one more set of "official" tryouts in Culver City, CA. After this final tryout, the final roster will be set.
July 17-18*
Grass Roots Ultimate Benefit Tournament (GRUB), Boulder, Colorado
Not 100% confirmed that we are going, but we are in the process of securing a bid to this tournament in beautiful Boulder Colorado in the middle of July. We will be able to size up the competition from our friends in the Rockies and hopefully use this tourney to tune up kinks and develop chemistry among the new members and the returners.
August 14-15
Emerald City Classic, Seattle, Washington
We are interested in attending this tournament, but are not sure as we have yet to hear back from the TD's after several weeks of trying to reach them. Hopefully we'll be able to attend, as this tournament is probably one of the highest level tournaments during the Club Season. Update coming soon.
Other Tournaments:
Discos Calientes, Chico, CA- We hate this tournament, despite winning it last year... we don't like it. So we are putting a lot of thought in this before we decide if we want to go
Labor Day, San Francisco, CA- 2nd place finish last year. Great tournament to prepare for the Club Series. It's always good to play against the powerhouse Bay Area teams: CTR, AIR, Mischief, and this tourney has been a very good barometer for our play in the middle of our season.
Sectionals: Rumored to be in Long Beach. Maybe we'll play BCBC 2 times again?
Regionals: Will be in Southern California. I can guarantee you that much.
Till next time,
Hammie
LA Metro #10
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Monday, April 19, 2010
Types of Pickup Players
In any level of pickup, there will be the "token" ______ guy. The guy who you always find at pickup regardless of level or geography. Here are just a few that I noticed.
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1. The Elder Statesman
Here is the guy that has a 4 digit UPA number. Here is the guy who started throwing hucks and hammers even before you knew about the game. You will frequently hear them talking about the 8th edition rules and gasp when they realize that the UPA is on the 11th edition. They may be older than most of us, but they still can ball. Typically they will bring their shaggy dog with them to the pickup game in addition to 2 or 3 of their young childeren whom at age 5 (sorry to say), tend to have better flicks than we do. Most are handlers who don't move very quickly on their surgically repaired knees (see Braces McGee), but will bomb hucks and 50 yard hammers with stunning accuracy. Poachy defense, and with great spirit, these old dogs are to be respected as they offer so much for the younger generation to learn.
2. Agro Craig
Mr. "Takes it too seriously." Or the guy who simply is too competitive for the level of pickup. We all have seen it... or maybe even assumed tihs role. These guys tend to be the more sour personalities of the bunch and are frequently seen chewing out their team for bad cuts/lack of cuts and/or muttering under his/her breath about how the cutter didn't make that deep S-cut or how the handler simply couldn't throw that inside/out flick break in the wind. Their skills tend not to keep up with their level of expectations from their teammates (although there are few exceptions), but in most cases, the average pickup player will just leave him be in his cloud of Agro-ness. They expect a lot out of other players who are really there just for some nice exercise and sun... and treat pickup much like universe point in the game to go to nationals. Sometimes warrented... usually ignored. Most players will respond to his motivational speeches promoting timed-cuts, hard defenses and marks with a simple reply of.. "Dude it's just Pickup..." Also will D the sh*t out of women.
3. The Newbie
These guys loove to BBQ. Backhand of course. Gear of choice includes and is not limited to a grey t-shirt, board shorts, tennis shoes, and/or a very confused facial expression. These are the guys who are usually brought out by friends, or who are new to the game. They are there to learn, and you have to give them credit for their determination and willingness to try. They stand out on the open side, not sure as to what to do, and when given the disc, they twirl the disc up above their head and throw the famous BBQ Backhand. Give them a couple more pickups... and they'll have the game down easy.
4. The Prespirer
The guy you hate to mark... because he's just dripping in sweat. They don't ever believe in synthetic materials and love to sport the dark cotton shirt that is simply struggling to keep up. It's not a big deal until you have to mark them and they pivot into you, drowning you in the process. They're good players... but for some reason just like to sweat.
5. Braces McGee
(See Elder Statesman). These are the guys that take quite a bit of time to get in the right flexibility/stretchy/warm uppy mode to play. In addition to cleats, players of this category will sport two humungous knee braces usually made of neoprene + velcro, ankle braces that lace up, and or an elbow brace for their curious case of "thrower's elbow." As a result, it takes a good 15-20 minutes for these players to gear up and stretch before playing. Their ankle braces are usually squeeky so it is not difficult to know when your guy is starting to run/cut. Sometimes (God forbid), they will reinjure their braced joint, but only slightly to the point where they retire to their fold out chair and talk about the MLB or NFL.
6. Sir Hucks o' Lot
Like the name implies, these are the good o'l huckers... and many of them simply are NOT huckers. They are solid players, but the huck is lacking. These are the guys that will simply break the hearts of their team... but forcing them to *gasp* play defense at pickup. Their hucks will be either super floaty/hospital, and or line drives that are easily d'd by people simply just standing there in the stack. Occassionally they will huck a nice one to an open receiver but that will simply boost their confidence into throwing something they really don't have. Common quotes include:
"Oh [name]!.... I thought you were going!!"
"Just go DEEP!"
"I totally have that!"
"Sorry guys... I hit my leg before the throw."
7. Mr. Excuses
Always has a reason as to why things happen or don't happen.
Why did the huck float out of bounds? "My cleat slipped."
What's with the drops? "It's too cold out..."
Why did I throw it straight into the ground? "I didn't warm up."
These guys always find a way to pass the torch of blame to someone/somebody else. I have even heard one guy say "I didn't shave," or even the "Allergies" alibi. I'm still waiting to hear someone say something along the lines of. "Yea, sorry about dropping that perfect throw... it's just the economy... you know how it is... my mind really isn't into it right now."
8. The Coach
Here are the aspiring coaches in the Ultimate world. The ones who want to throw ZONE in pickup... the ones who will demonstrate to newer players or even savvy veterans how to set a force. Everyone is below them, and their knowledge of the game is superior and they seem to want to share it with everyone when it simply doesn't matter or fit for the game at hand. I can see why they do it, why they look to coach their team, but for pickup... it seems a bit ridiculous when they ask a guy who has been playing ultimate their whole life if they know what a cup is... or when they teach an entirely new line of people the complexity of Split-stack, or a box zone. There are unwritten rules in pickup... and being the coach is not something that is looked well upon... especially if one is simply way too serious about it.
9. Add yours here! [comment below]
-----
till next time,
Hammie #10
-----
1. The Elder Statesman
Here is the guy that has a 4 digit UPA number. Here is the guy who started throwing hucks and hammers even before you knew about the game. You will frequently hear them talking about the 8th edition rules and gasp when they realize that the UPA is on the 11th edition. They may be older than most of us, but they still can ball. Typically they will bring their shaggy dog with them to the pickup game in addition to 2 or 3 of their young childeren whom at age 5 (sorry to say), tend to have better flicks than we do. Most are handlers who don't move very quickly on their surgically repaired knees (see Braces McGee), but will bomb hucks and 50 yard hammers with stunning accuracy. Poachy defense, and with great spirit, these old dogs are to be respected as they offer so much for the younger generation to learn.
2. Agro Craig
Mr. "Takes it too seriously." Or the guy who simply is too competitive for the level of pickup. We all have seen it... or maybe even assumed tihs role. These guys tend to be the more sour personalities of the bunch and are frequently seen chewing out their team for bad cuts/lack of cuts and/or muttering under his/her breath about how the cutter didn't make that deep S-cut or how the handler simply couldn't throw that inside/out flick break in the wind. Their skills tend not to keep up with their level of expectations from their teammates (although there are few exceptions), but in most cases, the average pickup player will just leave him be in his cloud of Agro-ness. They expect a lot out of other players who are really there just for some nice exercise and sun... and treat pickup much like universe point in the game to go to nationals. Sometimes warrented... usually ignored. Most players will respond to his motivational speeches promoting timed-cuts, hard defenses and marks with a simple reply of.. "Dude it's just Pickup..." Also will D the sh*t out of women.
3. The Newbie
These guys loove to BBQ. Backhand of course. Gear of choice includes and is not limited to a grey t-shirt, board shorts, tennis shoes, and/or a very confused facial expression. These are the guys who are usually brought out by friends, or who are new to the game. They are there to learn, and you have to give them credit for their determination and willingness to try. They stand out on the open side, not sure as to what to do, and when given the disc, they twirl the disc up above their head and throw the famous BBQ Backhand. Give them a couple more pickups... and they'll have the game down easy.
4. The Prespirer
The guy you hate to mark... because he's just dripping in sweat. They don't ever believe in synthetic materials and love to sport the dark cotton shirt that is simply struggling to keep up. It's not a big deal until you have to mark them and they pivot into you, drowning you in the process. They're good players... but for some reason just like to sweat.
5. Braces McGee
(See Elder Statesman). These are the guys that take quite a bit of time to get in the right flexibility/stretchy/warm uppy mode to play. In addition to cleats, players of this category will sport two humungous knee braces usually made of neoprene + velcro, ankle braces that lace up, and or an elbow brace for their curious case of "thrower's elbow." As a result, it takes a good 15-20 minutes for these players to gear up and stretch before playing. Their ankle braces are usually squeeky so it is not difficult to know when your guy is starting to run/cut. Sometimes (God forbid), they will reinjure their braced joint, but only slightly to the point where they retire to their fold out chair and talk about the MLB or NFL.
6. Sir Hucks o' Lot
Like the name implies, these are the good o'l huckers... and many of them simply are NOT huckers. They are solid players, but the huck is lacking. These are the guys that will simply break the hearts of their team... but forcing them to *gasp* play defense at pickup. Their hucks will be either super floaty/hospital, and or line drives that are easily d'd by people simply just standing there in the stack. Occassionally they will huck a nice one to an open receiver but that will simply boost their confidence into throwing something they really don't have. Common quotes include:
"Oh [name]!.... I thought you were going!!"
"Just go DEEP!"
"I totally have that!"
"Sorry guys... I hit my leg before the throw."
7. Mr. Excuses
Always has a reason as to why things happen or don't happen.
Why did the huck float out of bounds? "My cleat slipped."
What's with the drops? "It's too cold out..."
Why did I throw it straight into the ground? "I didn't warm up."
These guys always find a way to pass the torch of blame to someone/somebody else. I have even heard one guy say "I didn't shave," or even the "Allergies" alibi. I'm still waiting to hear someone say something along the lines of. "Yea, sorry about dropping that perfect throw... it's just the economy... you know how it is... my mind really isn't into it right now."
8. The Coach
Here are the aspiring coaches in the Ultimate world. The ones who want to throw ZONE in pickup... the ones who will demonstrate to newer players or even savvy veterans how to set a force. Everyone is below them, and their knowledge of the game is superior and they seem to want to share it with everyone when it simply doesn't matter or fit for the game at hand. I can see why they do it, why they look to coach their team, but for pickup... it seems a bit ridiculous when they ask a guy who has been playing ultimate their whole life if they know what a cup is... or when they teach an entirely new line of people the complexity of Split-stack, or a box zone. There are unwritten rules in pickup... and being the coach is not something that is looked well upon... especially if one is simply way too serious about it.
9. Add yours here! [comment below]
-----
till next time,
Hammie #10
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
LA Metro Tryout Schedule (Tentative)
For those interested in trying out for LA Metro, here is a very preliminary schedule:
05/01/2010: Pickup, TBA*
05/09/2010: Pickup, TBA*
05/16/2010: Pickup, TBA*
-Pickup sessions will give attendees a better understanding about our team in addition to giving the Captains an adequate idea of who is trying out.
*-tentatively scheduled. NOT Official. Location will be announced soon.
05/29-05/30: Santa Barbara Classic, Goleta, CA
- Roster will include returners from the 2009 campaign as well as those interested in trying out for the team. In the past, Captains have been selective in whom they invite but this is by no means a first cut. SB Classic Roster should be around 20-25, so captains are limited in the # they can bring.
06/05-06/06: Cal States, Santa Cruz, CA
- This will be more so the "official tryout," or at least the official tournament tryout. We will be fielding a team between 20-25 people with a mix of returning players + interested players. This tournament will give the selection committee an idea as to the dynamic of this year's squad in addition to seeing how the new talent stacks up against solid co-ed teams from all over California.
(Past Results: 2008: Runner-up, 2009: 3rd place finish). Cuts will be made after this tournament.
Following Cal States, there may be a full official tryout w/ drills/ scrimmages/ etc. This is not official but there have been talks regarding having this "official" tryout, something that we have not had in the past. Should be finalized soon.
If you have any questions regarding tryouts or are interested in trying out, please contact the captains at metro.ultimate.la@gmail.com
Good Luck!
-Hammie
LA Metro #10
05/01/2010: Pickup, TBA*
05/09/2010: Pickup, TBA*
05/16/2010: Pickup, TBA*
-Pickup sessions will give attendees a better understanding about our team in addition to giving the Captains an adequate idea of who is trying out.
*-tentatively scheduled. NOT Official. Location will be announced soon.
05/29-05/30: Santa Barbara Classic, Goleta, CA
- Roster will include returners from the 2009 campaign as well as those interested in trying out for the team. In the past, Captains have been selective in whom they invite but this is by no means a first cut. SB Classic Roster should be around 20-25, so captains are limited in the # they can bring.
06/05-06/06: Cal States, Santa Cruz, CA
- This will be more so the "official tryout," or at least the official tournament tryout. We will be fielding a team between 20-25 people with a mix of returning players + interested players. This tournament will give the selection committee an idea as to the dynamic of this year's squad in addition to seeing how the new talent stacks up against solid co-ed teams from all over California.
(Past Results: 2008: Runner-up, 2009: 3rd place finish). Cuts will be made after this tournament.
Following Cal States, there may be a full official tryout w/ drills/ scrimmages/ etc. This is not official but there have been talks regarding having this "official" tryout, something that we have not had in the past. Should be finalized soon.
If you have any questions regarding tryouts or are interested in trying out, please contact the captains at metro.ultimate.la@gmail.com
Good Luck!
-Hammie
LA Metro #10
Friday, April 9, 2010
Commentary: LA Ultimate
LA Ultimate in the 2009 UPA Series:
- Coed + Open Sectionals Champs (LA Metro, Strike-Slip)
- Top 3 finish at Southwest Regionals (LA Metro, Strike-Slip)
- Two bids to Nationals (LA Metro, BCBC)
I guess the term "one-and-done" seems to be pretty applicable when it comes to ultimate here in the Los Angeles area. The decision to dissolve Strike-Slip, the defending Socal Sectionals champs, seems to be a slap in the face in the idea of building a successful long-term open team in LA. I totally understand where the leadership is coming from in terms of the difficulty of putting the team together and running it, but I am moreso disappointed in the idea that players seem to have very little sense of loyalty when it comes to sticking with one team and allowing that team several years to "ripen" and grow into a long-term program.
Instead of simply picking up all the best players they can in one year and flying by the seat of their pants, I feel like teams need to build a solid foundation. This is not a stab at people who are moving on with their lives, attending grad school, or going back home, as it seems like LA is a very fast paced town and people come and go much like the rain here. I've just found that such instability with the population does make it difficult for programs to have a good footing and/or flourish with a core group of players.
Even if you look at pro-sports, most teams who go out and chase down all the expensive and attractive free agents for their team usually find that success does not come for a certain price. Teams such as the 2002 Angels and/or the successful A's teams in the early 00's showed that success can be found through home-grown talent and that development with a common group of people is effective and successful. Of course, us ultimate players do not sign multi-year contracts, and our only source of "commitment" would be that of a verbal one.
This year is one of controlled chaos. Strike-Slip is sadly no more... and many of her leadership has jumped to a new co-ed team... now one of the "big three" in the area along with Metro and BCBC. This calls for a very interesting season in the LA area, that will be dominated not by the news of LA's finest Open team, but of which Coed team will assert themselves as the top contender for Nationals against Barrio of Arizona and whatever team comes out of Denver.
That said, it is safe to say that although I had been entertaining the idea of playing open, it seems like the open teams here in LA can't seem to find a strong enough rooting to stay around for more than a one year at most, so it's difficult to invest time when you see people around you jumping ship at a steady pace. It's kind of sad to see teams come and go like this, with no consistency, and with no long-term purpose. Qualifying for Nationals is the goal of most people in this area, but it can't be done by simply stacking talent on one team for one year. Even if the team is successful, it seems like we're so easily distracted by other shiny new teams that we quickly forget about staying true to one team and developing it into a perennial powerhouse.
Ultimate in LA needs more players who are more loyal to their teams, to realize that teams need time to mature into contenders. I still have faith in the ultimate scene here... that soon some teams will pop up that demand loyalty with a philosophy of building the team instead of forming a "one and done" team. Maybe it's just the town we live in, or maybe it's just the very limited ability for people to meet in a single place without transfering 4 different highways. But change needs to happen before we see another program like the Condors or Monster pop up again. I hate to say it, but LA might need to take at what our friends down in San Diego are doing and take note.
Best of luck to all on the season. Let's hope a new open team pops up this year.
note: This is strictly how I feel about the matter. My apologies in advance for any people I may be offending or "calling out." It is not my intention to do so, but rather to simply address the issue at hand.
-Hammie
LAMetro #10
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
LA Metro Tryouts 2010
It's that time of year again! Time to dust off your cleats, time to run those miles as tryouts begin for club season 2010.
If you are intetrested in trying out for LA Metro, please email the captains (Martha & Keegan Uhl, and Frankie Rho) at metro.ultimate.la@gmail.com
If you are intetrested in trying out for LA Metro, please email the captains (Martha & Keegan Uhl, and Frankie Rho) at metro.ultimate.la@gmail.com
Friday, March 26, 2010
Monday, February 1, 2010
Being Effective in the Rain and Cold
disclaimer: these tips and ideas come through my expriences playing in extreme conditions. Beware-O 2001 (4'+ of rain and ~40 degrees), SB Qualifier 2006 (~40-degrees), SB Invite (5' of rain + cold), 2008 Southwest Regionals (35 degree start + rain) to name a few. and yes... I am aware that you East Coasters and Midwesterners will say "pshhh You don't know what cold is." But I'm a California kid.... and I'm just passing along words from my experiences. =)
Most of us remember instances when rain didn't mean staying indoors on a Saturday morning. Most of us will remember the first time they played Ultimate in a light shower, or for some of us, in a torrential downpour. Playing pickup in the rain is one thing for those who are brave enough... but being caught or forced to play in the rain at a major tournament is another thing. There are many things one can do to prepare for a weekend tournament and checking the weather is one of the most basic and overlooked tasks. However; when the rain is inevitable and you're not playing on turf, there are ways you can prepare and play that will not only prevent injury, but also allow you to be effective as a cutter or a handler.
1. Dynamic Stretching and Keeping your Muscles warm on the sideline.
Muscles work through a process of lengthening and contracting through myosin and actin cross-bridging. Basically the point is, your muscles require Ca2+ in addition to K and Na to effectively contract and relax so that you can run, throw, jump, etc. etc. This process is also heat sensitive in that "cold" muscles will be more prone to injury if any sudden and explosive strain is exerted (cutting, hucking, jumping). In a wet environment, the rain will most likely soak any ultimate player down to his base-layer and playing with a rain jacket and/or rain pants is not very conducive to the sport let alone your own safety. So there are ways to prepare.
Dynamic Stretching is a way for players to be consistently keeping their muscles loose and warm. What this means is that players need to stretch very well and CONSTANTLY at the beginning of each touranment and game, and while on the sideline. It doesn't make sense to stand on the sideline watching the game. The wetness and the cold will simply lower your core body temperature causing your circulatory system to reroute blood to your core and away from your extremities... consequently reducing blood flow to your muscles and therefore less Ca2+, Na... etc. etc. Basically what this means it that if you're not constantly moving on the sideline, you will be more prone to injury, cramping, and/or ineffectiveness on the field. When you are back on the sideline, you need to layer up with a thermal, jacket, or simply getting out of the rain helps.
Do some lunges with twists, jumping jacks, high knees and butt kicks on the sideline to keep yourself warm and ready to go back into the game. I guarantee that while on the field, you will not feel cold as you will be exerting maximum effort in your cuts. Playing in the game does not concern me... but the sideline activity or lack thereof is what's dangerous and will ultimately alter your overall effectiveness once you DO get in.
tips
- very thorough stretching pre-game
- layer up on the sideline or simply get out of the rain.
- keep stretching and moving on the sideline.
- Find a girl to hug. Girls are warm =)
2. Clothing
Performance baselayers are effective in the cold, but they will still soak through your jerseys and will be detrimental since they tend to retain moisture (supposed to be sweat) and will trap the cold between your layers. The most effective things I've found in terms of baselayering is to be Macruber and to simply wear a trash bag. Punch a hole for your head and arms, and (important). Do not wear the trash bag as the first layer on top of your skin. Polyethylene is NOT breathable and if you do wear it, you will believe it or not, cause overheating and dehydration. Wear the trash bag as the 2nd to last layer (from your skin), right under your team jersey, and on top of another baselayer. This will ensure more breathability for your skin but also will keep the rain out. BIG tip. It's the 2000's... don't wear cotton. It simply absorbes everything and will cool down your core. Cotton is the enemy (Underarmor).
Headware is important. You lose a high percentage of heat through your head so wear a beanie, or a hat at the very least. Who cares about visability or spotting the disc. If it's raining... a hat will pose more of a benefit than disadvantage. Hoods are no good since they ruin your peripheral vision, in addition to soaking through and promoting heat loss.
Multiple layers of socks are good too in addition to a sandwich plastic bag in between them to ensure that your feet stay dry. Be ready to ruin a pair of cleats but keep your feet dry to avoid blisters and "corpse feet."
tips:
-wear a performance baselayer FIRST (underarmor, nike pro, or another jersey)
-NO COTTON
- Trash bag should be the 2nd to last layer (from your skin) directly underneath your active light or dark
- Wear headware to minimize heat loss.
- Multiple socks are suggested but not required. Do whatever feels right for your feet.
3. Throwing and Catching
If you've ever caught a disc on the knuckles on a brisk morning or evening, you know what i'm talking about. The disc is plastic, and will react to the elements much like you. I've had a disc crack entirely in half after hitting a fence because of the cold. The disc becomes rigid and will not "give" like in normal conditions. You, the player, must adjust to the disc. Since the disc never lies.
In throwing, the grip is key. Much like footing in rock-climbing. You need to establish a strong foundation through the grip. I've been told that in the rain, you wanna grip it tighter and stronger to ensure stability, but I found that it is more effective to almost go with what you're used to and to make minimal adjustments. I have a power grip that is very tight, and in the wet it will slip out from time to time... but it comes down to knowing what you can throw too. The hammer in the wet will not really work, but the nice floaty backhand is high percentage. The rain really levels out the playing field and if you can consistently throw "boring" but high percentage throws, you will be effective as a handler. Huge hucks might not work because of a constantly slick disc, so as handlers, it's up to YOU to know what you can throw at a 0.95 clip in the rain. Footing is important as a handler and you have to realize that you probably won't be able to plant you foot further out for hucks or breaks. Know---Your---Limits.
Catching is most difficult. Pancake catches require pressure on the top and bottom of the disc but with the rain, friction is hard to attain and the disc seems to just slip out. Lobster claw and Chicken catches require a bit more skill. I found that wearing long sleeves w/ my jersey gives me a little bit more friction in catching pancake style. I know it's not suggested to catch with your arms, but in the rain, that extra security might be needed. In Colorado, the cold was so bitter that most of my team including myself resorted to football receiver gloves to give us more warmth and friction on our catches. It sacrificed some throwing ability for some of us but hey... atleast we weren't dropping the disc. Cutting will be difficult as well and it comes down to traction. You might have to sacrifice some directional change by taking more steps, but your defender is going to have to do the same so the advantage goes to you.
tips:
- stick to your grip, slightly tighter/looser if needed (practice throwing with a wet disc).
- Know your limits in the rain. Boring and 100% throws will win you games and matchups.
- Long sleeves aid in catching (need practice first)
- Gloves if needed aid in catching + keeping warm.
- Exaggerate the # of steps needed to change direction. More Steps = More Open
4. Miscellaneous
Do not forget to hydrate. Even though there is water all around, your body will be consistently losing moisture to the more saturated air in addition to your body burning through resources to keep your core temperature up. You need to be hydrating and if possible, drinking warm fluids. If I know it will be bitter cold, I tend to bring a thermos with simply hot sugar water and/or honey tea.
Post-game, your team needs to find shelter from the rain/cold if going through a bye. Retreating to the cars is a good idea and/or simply retreating to a tent is just as effective. Just be ready to repeat Section 1 in warming up post-bye. At the end of the tournament, a cool down is needed. For your muscles to be working so hard in the cold and then suddenly just call it a day will cause your muscles to contract and increase the likelyhood of future injury or soreness over the week.
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In all... you just have to be smart when playing in the rain. Exercise common sense and be prepared. I can't describe how many times I've seen teammates that are ill-prepared for such conditions and have them reduced to a shivering mess, refusing to go in and play. You want to be looking out for yourself and if you are prepared, you will be effective and instrumental in your team's success. These are just a few tips that I have learned over my 4 years playing ultimate and if you have any other tips, please leave a comment for other ultimate players to see.
Till next time,
Hammie #10
Most of us remember instances when rain didn't mean staying indoors on a Saturday morning. Most of us will remember the first time they played Ultimate in a light shower, or for some of us, in a torrential downpour. Playing pickup in the rain is one thing for those who are brave enough... but being caught or forced to play in the rain at a major tournament is another thing. There are many things one can do to prepare for a weekend tournament and checking the weather is one of the most basic and overlooked tasks. However; when the rain is inevitable and you're not playing on turf, there are ways you can prepare and play that will not only prevent injury, but also allow you to be effective as a cutter or a handler.
1. Dynamic Stretching and Keeping your Muscles warm on the sideline.
Muscles work through a process of lengthening and contracting through myosin and actin cross-bridging. Basically the point is, your muscles require Ca2+ in addition to K and Na to effectively contract and relax so that you can run, throw, jump, etc. etc. This process is also heat sensitive in that "cold" muscles will be more prone to injury if any sudden and explosive strain is exerted (cutting, hucking, jumping). In a wet environment, the rain will most likely soak any ultimate player down to his base-layer and playing with a rain jacket and/or rain pants is not very conducive to the sport let alone your own safety. So there are ways to prepare.
Dynamic Stretching is a way for players to be consistently keeping their muscles loose and warm. What this means is that players need to stretch very well and CONSTANTLY at the beginning of each touranment and game, and while on the sideline. It doesn't make sense to stand on the sideline watching the game. The wetness and the cold will simply lower your core body temperature causing your circulatory system to reroute blood to your core and away from your extremities... consequently reducing blood flow to your muscles and therefore less Ca2+, Na... etc. etc. Basically what this means it that if you're not constantly moving on the sideline, you will be more prone to injury, cramping, and/or ineffectiveness on the field. When you are back on the sideline, you need to layer up with a thermal, jacket, or simply getting out of the rain helps.
Do some lunges with twists, jumping jacks, high knees and butt kicks on the sideline to keep yourself warm and ready to go back into the game. I guarantee that while on the field, you will not feel cold as you will be exerting maximum effort in your cuts. Playing in the game does not concern me... but the sideline activity or lack thereof is what's dangerous and will ultimately alter your overall effectiveness once you DO get in.
tips
- very thorough stretching pre-game
- layer up on the sideline or simply get out of the rain.
- keep stretching and moving on the sideline.
- Find a girl to hug. Girls are warm =)
2. Clothing
Performance baselayers are effective in the cold, but they will still soak through your jerseys and will be detrimental since they tend to retain moisture (supposed to be sweat) and will trap the cold between your layers. The most effective things I've found in terms of baselayering is to be Macruber and to simply wear a trash bag. Punch a hole for your head and arms, and (important). Do not wear the trash bag as the first layer on top of your skin. Polyethylene is NOT breathable and if you do wear it, you will believe it or not, cause overheating and dehydration. Wear the trash bag as the 2nd to last layer (from your skin), right under your team jersey, and on top of another baselayer. This will ensure more breathability for your skin but also will keep the rain out. BIG tip. It's the 2000's... don't wear cotton. It simply absorbes everything and will cool down your core. Cotton is the enemy (Underarmor).
Headware is important. You lose a high percentage of heat through your head so wear a beanie, or a hat at the very least. Who cares about visability or spotting the disc. If it's raining... a hat will pose more of a benefit than disadvantage. Hoods are no good since they ruin your peripheral vision, in addition to soaking through and promoting heat loss.
Multiple layers of socks are good too in addition to a sandwich plastic bag in between them to ensure that your feet stay dry. Be ready to ruin a pair of cleats but keep your feet dry to avoid blisters and "corpse feet."
tips:
-wear a performance baselayer FIRST (underarmor, nike pro, or another jersey)
-NO COTTON
- Trash bag should be the 2nd to last layer (from your skin) directly underneath your active light or dark
- Wear headware to minimize heat loss.
- Multiple socks are suggested but not required. Do whatever feels right for your feet.
3. Throwing and Catching
If you've ever caught a disc on the knuckles on a brisk morning or evening, you know what i'm talking about. The disc is plastic, and will react to the elements much like you. I've had a disc crack entirely in half after hitting a fence because of the cold. The disc becomes rigid and will not "give" like in normal conditions. You, the player, must adjust to the disc. Since the disc never lies.
In throwing, the grip is key. Much like footing in rock-climbing. You need to establish a strong foundation through the grip. I've been told that in the rain, you wanna grip it tighter and stronger to ensure stability, but I found that it is more effective to almost go with what you're used to and to make minimal adjustments. I have a power grip that is very tight, and in the wet it will slip out from time to time... but it comes down to knowing what you can throw too. The hammer in the wet will not really work, but the nice floaty backhand is high percentage. The rain really levels out the playing field and if you can consistently throw "boring" but high percentage throws, you will be effective as a handler. Huge hucks might not work because of a constantly slick disc, so as handlers, it's up to YOU to know what you can throw at a 0.95 clip in the rain. Footing is important as a handler and you have to realize that you probably won't be able to plant you foot further out for hucks or breaks. Know---Your---Limits.
Catching is most difficult. Pancake catches require pressure on the top and bottom of the disc but with the rain, friction is hard to attain and the disc seems to just slip out. Lobster claw and Chicken catches require a bit more skill. I found that wearing long sleeves w/ my jersey gives me a little bit more friction in catching pancake style. I know it's not suggested to catch with your arms, but in the rain, that extra security might be needed. In Colorado, the cold was so bitter that most of my team including myself resorted to football receiver gloves to give us more warmth and friction on our catches. It sacrificed some throwing ability for some of us but hey... atleast we weren't dropping the disc. Cutting will be difficult as well and it comes down to traction. You might have to sacrifice some directional change by taking more steps, but your defender is going to have to do the same so the advantage goes to you.
tips:
- stick to your grip, slightly tighter/looser if needed (practice throwing with a wet disc).
- Know your limits in the rain. Boring and 100% throws will win you games and matchups.
- Long sleeves aid in catching (need practice first)
- Gloves if needed aid in catching + keeping warm.
- Exaggerate the # of steps needed to change direction. More Steps = More Open
4. Miscellaneous
Do not forget to hydrate. Even though there is water all around, your body will be consistently losing moisture to the more saturated air in addition to your body burning through resources to keep your core temperature up. You need to be hydrating and if possible, drinking warm fluids. If I know it will be bitter cold, I tend to bring a thermos with simply hot sugar water and/or honey tea.
Post-game, your team needs to find shelter from the rain/cold if going through a bye. Retreating to the cars is a good idea and/or simply retreating to a tent is just as effective. Just be ready to repeat Section 1 in warming up post-bye. At the end of the tournament, a cool down is needed. For your muscles to be working so hard in the cold and then suddenly just call it a day will cause your muscles to contract and increase the likelyhood of future injury or soreness over the week.
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In all... you just have to be smart when playing in the rain. Exercise common sense and be prepared. I can't describe how many times I've seen teammates that are ill-prepared for such conditions and have them reduced to a shivering mess, refusing to go in and play. You want to be looking out for yourself and if you are prepared, you will be effective and instrumental in your team's success. These are just a few tips that I have learned over my 4 years playing ultimate and if you have any other tips, please leave a comment for other ultimate players to see.
Till next time,
Hammie #10
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