Self Refereeing
Here is an interesting exercise for you; google the search term “self refereeing”… what shows up? Ultimate, Ultimate and more Ultimate!
Ultimate and Beach Ultimate share the uniqueness of being self-refereed or self-officiated sports. Without the presence of a third party to make calls, the players have the responsibility to know the rules, maintain objectivity and fair-mindedness as well as communicate clearly. Even in tough game situations, all players are expected to maintain these guidelines and make the experience enjoyable for all parties involved. Good, healthy competition, or what is commonly known as “Spirit of the Game“.
This may sound easy or impossible, depending on your point of view, but it works. Even at the World Championships all games are self-refereed.
Self-refereeing is unique and allows for a huge amount of self growth and mutual respect. It is not that Beach Ultimate players don’t want to win…. It is just that they don’t want to win at all costs. At the end of the day, taking away the referee allows for maximum awareness and a common purpose between players, which in turn helps to increase honorable and exemplary behavior even under highly competitive situations. Winning under these circumstances is the most amazing feeling, it is a true victory!
