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CANADIAN INDUSTRY ONLINE - JUNE 2014
cial aspect of Frisbee.
“
The widespread interest in Can-
ada comes from the fact that ultimate
is a very social sport and can be played
at a league level, and is usually played
in a mixed format so it’s a great way
to meet people,” he explains. Not only
is ultimate a social sport, it can also be
played at many different skill levels.
“
Ultimate is also becoming more
popular because of the level of fitness
required to play the sport. Once you
become good at it, you can also play
competitively and that element attracts
people. It’s a very challenging sport
and there are many levels of skills in-
volved.”
Ultimate Frisbee is a sport that
anyone can play—and doesn’t require
a professional referee. “Frisbee is a
self-officiated sport and players are
encouraged to resolve conflicts on their
own—many people are attracted to
that.”
WIDESPREAD APPEAL
“
The demographics for ultimate
have changed,” Saunders says. “More
people at high school and middle
school levels are playing. Since our
organization started participation lev-
els have increased about 20 per cent a
year.”
Age is not a factor for Frisbee
players, many of whom are looking for
a social activity after work or school.
“
High school leagues are getting larg-
er. The GTA has over 100 schools that
play ultimate.”
It is notable that the sport has
grown so much in Canada, considering
the popularity of traditional Canadian
sports like hockey. “You don’t need
much to play Frisbee—no equipment
required,” Saunders notes.
The benefits of playing Frisbee
apply to all demographics. Ultimate
Canada promotes an active lifestyle via
ultimate Frisbee: “It is important that
we encourage Canadians to live an
active lifestyle, and ultimate is a great
way to stay active. Most people don’t
realize that ultimate can be enjoyed in
different levels, so you don’t have to
be experienced to enjoy the game and
get the physical benefits from it.
ULTIMATE CANADA
