Tuesday, 15 July 2025

Ultimate frisbee builds community and passion

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The game’s at full speed — players showing off their precision and teamwork.

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KUCHING: Ultimate frisbee is a non-contact team sport played with a flying disc, where teams advance the disc downfield and score points by catching it in the opposing end zone, with continuous play and aerial agility.

Central to the sport’s ethos is the “Spirit of the Game”—a principle that places sportsmanship and integrity above all. With no referees at most levels, players are expected to self-officiate and resolve disputes with mutual respect.

In indoor formats, such as the Swinburne Indoor Open, the game is played on a smaller court with teams of five, resulting in quicker transitions, tighter coordination, and a faster-paced game.

Globally, ultimate frisbee continues to thrive through grassroots initiatives, school leagues, and international championships.

Sarawak Tribune spoke with several players at the recent Swinburne Indoor Open 2025, held on April 12–13, to find out what keeps them coming back to the field.

The flying disc sport continues to grow in popularity across Sarawak, with the latest tournament drawing passionate players from all over Malaysia, Singapore, and beyond.

For many, it wasn’t just about competition—it was about rekindling friendships, celebrating personal growth, and embracing a game that transcends borders.

Glowing faces as Balqis (left) and Dolly (right) sharing a proud moment at Swinburne Indoor Open.

Among them is frisbee faithful Dolly Wong, a 24-year-old from Selangor now working in Singapore, who found something her solo sports background never could—a true sense of team unity.

“It’s fun and fast-paced, but more than that, it’s about collaboration. It’s not a one-man show,” said Dolly, who transitioned to frisbee after years as a long-distance runner.

“And I love Sarawak food, so playing in Kuching is a double win!”

Smiles and good vibes from Rebecca Lee.

Balqis Sabri, 24, first picked up a disc during her university days in Kuala Lumpur. Originally aiming for netball, she stumbled upon frisbee and was instantly drawn in.

“It reminded me of netball in terms of movement and passing. I didn’t get to play netball back then, so I gave frisbee a try—and now it’s become a real passion.”

Another frisbee enthusiast, 21-year-old Rebecca Lee from Singapore, discovered the sport through family ties.

“My cousin played frisbee in polytechnic, so I joined the trials out of curiosity.

“I used to play volleyball, but frisbee had a different kind of energy. Catching a disc felt exciting. Now, even during my gap year, I still play whenever I can.”

Jia Leng’a passion for frisbee never fades, even after nearly a decade.

Seasoned competitor, Jia Leng, 29, of the Chinese Dusun community in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, reached a personal milestone at the Swinburne Indoor Open.

“I’ve played in many outdoor tournaments, but this is my first indoor one.”

Representing Sunset Balu, Jia welcomed the new format and the chance to reconnect with old friends—and make a few new ones.

She started playing in 2016 while studying at Curtin University in Miri. Nearly a decade later, her passion for the sport remains undimmed.

“Every year I say, ‘Okay, I’ll stop.’ But once I’m on the field, the adrenaline kicks in. I want to do better each time. That competitiveness keeps me going.”

As ultimate frisbee continues to build momentum in the region—especially among youth and working professionals—it’s clear that the sport is more than just a game. It’s a community, a passion, and for many, a way of life.

Players not only develop their skills on the field but also form lasting friendships, unite across borders, and embrace the spirit of sportsmanship that defines the game.

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