Ultimate Frisbee | September 9, 2024

Ultimate Frisbee: 4 Essential Throws Every Player Should Know

 

Ultimate Frisbee is a dynamic and fast-paced sport that requires a diverse skill set, particularly when it comes to throwing techniques. Whether you’re a frisbee pro or just starting, mastering various tosses can elevate your game and make you a versatile asset on the field. Here’s a breakdown of four types of fundamental and advanced throws to help you excel in your next Boston Ski & Sports Club (BSSC) Ultimate Frisbee league.

  1. The Forehand (Flick)

Description: The forehand throw, also known as the flick, is a staple in any ultimate player’s arsenal. It’s particularly useful for quick, precise passes and for throwing around defenders.

How to Execute:

  1. Grip: Hold the disc with your index and middle fingers along the inside rim, your thumb on top, and your ring and pinky fingers underneath.
  2. Stance: Stand sideways to your target. Your throwing arm should be pulled back with your elbow bent at about 90 degrees.
  3. Release: Snap your wrist forward while extending your arm. The disc should come off your index finger with a flicking motion. Aim to get a smooth release for maximum spin and accuracy.

Tip: Practice varying the angle of your flick to adapt to different types of passes, like low-line drives or high-flying flicks.

  1. The Backhand

Description: The backhand throw is perhaps the most common throw in ultimate. It’s versatile and can be used for both short and long passes.

How to Execute:

  1. Grip: Place your index and middle fingers along the inside of the frisbee, with your thumb on top and your ring and pinky fingers curled underneath.
  2. Stance: Position yourself sideways to your target, with your throwing arm pulled back. Your non-throwing arm should be extended for balance.
  3. Release: Swing your arm forward, using your torso and hips to generate power. Snap your wrist at the point of release for added spin. Follow through with your arm extending towards your target.

Tip: Work on your follow-through to ensure a straight, accurate toss. Practice with different grip pressures to adjust the disc’s flight path.

  1. The Hammer

Description: The hammer is an overhand throw that can effectively pass over defenders and achieve unique angles.

How to Execute:

  1. Grip: Hold the disc with your thumb on top and your fingers underneath, similar to the forehand grip but with a more vertical orientation.
  2. Stance: Stand facing your target with your arm cocked back over your shoulder.
  3. Release: Throw the frisbee with an overhand motion, snapping your wrist downward. The disc should flip over in mid-air and come down on the opposite side of the field.

Tip: The hammer requires a strong wrist snap and proper body mechanics. Practice your timing to get the right angle and distance.

  1. The Scoober

Description: The scoober is an advanced throw useful for high-arching passes and particularly effective in tight situations.

How to Execute:

  1. Grip: Hold the frisbee with your thumb on top and your index and middle fingers underneath, tilting the disc slightly upwards.
  2. Stance: Position yourself with your torso facing away from your target. Your throwing arm should be cocked back at a 90-degree angle.
  3. Release: Throw the disc with an upward, scooping motion, using your wrist to generate spin. The disc will flip over and travel in an arcing trajectory.

Tip: The scoober can be challenging to master, so start with shorter throws and gradually increase the distance as you become more comfortable.

Final Thoughts

Developing multiple throwing methods in ultimate frisbee takes time and practice. Each toss has its nuances and applications, and mastering them will give you greater control and confidence on the field. Remember to focus on technique, consistency, and experimenting with different throws in various game situations. You’ll become a star for your BSSC Ultimate Frisbee team with dedication and practice!

Boston Ski and Sports Club is Boston’s largest, longest-running and leading provider of adult recreational sports leagues in Greater Boston.  Our dedicated full-time staff takes great pride in organizing an extensive assortment of coed, men’s and women’s league options throughout the year, so that teams and individual players of all skill levels can find a league, tournament or clinic just right for them.