Ultimate Frisbee Backyard Game

A flying disc (frisbee)

Cones or markers for field boundaries and end zones

Set up a rectangular field with two end zones. For backyard play, 40-50 feet between end zones is plenty. Mark the end zones with cones — they should be about 10 feet deep.

Two teams. Three players per side is minimum for good play, 5-7 is ideal.

Start with a throw-off: one team throws the disc as far as they can toward the other team. The receiving team catches it and play begins.

The key rule: when you catch the disc, you must stop running. You have 10 seconds to throw it to a teammate. You can pivot on one foot to find an open teammate.

Teammates run to get open and catch the pass. Advance the disc down the field by throwing from player to player.

Score a point by catching the disc inside the opposing end zone. After a score, teams switch directions and the scoring team throws off.

If the disc hits the ground (bad throw or dropped catch), if it goes out of bounds, or if the defense intercepts it, possession switches to the other team at that spot.

Play to 7 points. No referee needed — ultimate frisbee is famously self-officiated. Players call their own fouls and resolve disputes honestly.

The two essential throws: the backhand (flick wrist with disc flat, like skipping a stone) and the forehand (hold disc with two fingers underneath, flick wrist forward). Teach both.

The "no running with the disc" rule is what makes ultimate frisbee a passing game. It requires teamwork, communication, and spatial awareness.

Spirit of the Game is a core ultimate principle: play hard but play fair. No fouls on purpose, no arguing with opponents, mutual respect.

Start with a smaller field for younger or fewer players. A too-large field means too much running and not enough action.

Ultimate frisbee is one of the fastest-growing youth sports because it combines the best parts of soccer, football, and basketball into a game that requires minimal equipment.