Ultimate Frisbee craze catches on

Disco Vegas' Kieran Allen, left, playing against The Foreign Legion at the Ultimate frisbee competition at Rotorua's Energy Events Centre last year. Photo / Stephen Parker

The fast-paced, action-packed game of Ultimate Frisbee is one of the most rapidly growing sports worldwide, with new clubs and new players constantly on the increase - and the season is about to get under way in Rotorua.

The craze is a non-contact team game which hones quick reflexes, high fitness and a decent level of hand-eye co-ordination.

It is a sort of cross between netball and American football.

Rotorua Ultimate Frisbee club president Stephanie Kamp said as soon as she started playing she was hooked.

"It's such a fun, spirited game that you can't help but enjoy it."

She moved to Rotorua in 2014 and was keen to find other players locally, as she had picked up the sport while at university in Christchurch.

Rotorua has had a club for years and she jumped in to get the club active and growing.

"There was a national tournament in Rotorua in May 2015, and I was determined I'd have a team ready by then."

A Rotorua Ultimate team played in the tournament.

The season will begin on Thursday, April 21, at Rotorua Girls High School gym from 6.30 to 8pm. The first practice is free to new players, and then $5.

- For more details search Rotorua Ultimate on Facebook or visit www.ultimate.org.nz