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Tried to stay away from Ultimate and Kiteboarding photos yesterday (And the rest of the weekend. Hopefully). I was trying to stay away from photography, really...

And we're back! We have a special Ultimate Guest Blogger today!

Straight from Jacksonville, Florida. Uzziel Tayag is a Filipino-American, born in Redwood, California with Kapampangan roots. She played alongside great athletes like Jonathan "Goose" Helton and Joshua "Rook" Shepard, to name a few. Played in teams like MoXXie, Jacks-on-Jill, and of course, The Hucking Dead (Love the jersey, by the way!) Time to enter the world of Uzzi! Time to get inspired and motivated from this well written article! 

Read on! 

STARTED FROM THE BOTTOM, NOW WERE HERE

by: Uzziel Tayag

"Timeline.I was introduced to Ultimate Frisbee at Mandarin High School in Jacksonville, Florida USA at the age of fifteen when rules were always a question mark and looking them up was too much work. Non-contact? Yes, but tackling is okay! Travel? Naw man, you can take three steps in any direction after you’ve gained possession of the disc! Also, always make sure to yell out “ULTIMATE!” as you pull the disc because it’s cool. Anyway, later in 2005, my close friend, Alex Reynolds, brought me to pick-up and since then my life has changed.

I continued to not know what I was doing except love the sport and its people, so in 2006, I joined a bunch of cool kids (like, Jonathan “Goose” Helton and Joshua “Rook” Shepard, who taught me how to throw a flick) in my first ever tournament, Gainesville, Florida’s Frostbreaker. That same year, Jacksonville established its first Ultimate frisbee league aka Jacksonville Ultimate League, and I became part of the family since. In 2007, Florida attempted to put a Women’s team together and we called ourselves moXXie, but only pulled through for a couple tournaments. I found myself registering for a UPA (Ultimate Players Association) membership and in 2008, I joined my first Mixed Club team, Jacks-on-Jill.Jacks-on-Jill is where it all started for me. With a team being lead by John “LJ” Reeves, Matt “Cangi” Cangiolosi, and the strategic wisdom of Daniel “D-West” West, my eyes were opened up to a different culture of Ultimate. I was learning the rules, structure, competition, and understanding teamwork. I remember in 2009 (my last season with the team) during a scrimmage at practice one day I stopped running around because I was [insert excuse here]. LJ came up to me and told me, “Uzzi, you’ve gotta move around. You gotta do something.” That really stuck to me and motivated me to change my ways. I kept telling myself, “No more excuses.” I wanted to get better because my teammates cared about me and vice versa.

I moved to Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines in 2010, after the US Air Force did not work out for me, but it was the year I felt was a pivotal point in my Ultimate “career”. Upon slight disappointment in finding out that not very many people had heard of Ultimate in my province, and the closest pick-up games were in Olongapo (roughly an hour away), I decided to bring Ultimate to me. It all began with just my father and I throwing a disc at the parade grounds inside Clark Air Force Base. I was also attending Holy Angel University at that time, so I stood up in front of every one of my classes, told them I play a sport Derek Ramsay plays and that maybe they’ll get to meet him. This was one of those excusable times to lie, and suddenly I had back-to-back papers with my classmates’ information filled out. People came and they went to my informal “beginners’ clinics”, and soon a handful became hooked. Ultimate in Pampanga spread like wildfire. Seeing the growth in Pampanga Ultimate, my next goal was to form a team before I left for the States again. Today, we have almost five hundred members in the Pampanga Ultimate Community (PUC) from six-years-old to over sixty-years-old, and a co-ed team that went from Pampanga Grounds to Pampanga Emperors. This year, PUC hosted their first official provincial tournament, Cabalen Ultimate Open, and on top of that, for the first time, the Emperors put in a bid to play in next month’s MANILA SPIRITS!

I wasn’t anything spectacular as an Ultimate player, but I knew enough to teach the basics, and that was all I needed. It wasn’t my intention to be in a leadership position either, but not having easier access to games and really wanting it forced me to, and I am very thankful for the experience. I learned to enjoy teaching, and with Kapampangans returning to play and asking for more, I couldn’t help but want the same for myself. If I were to introduce other people to this lifestyle that I cared about so much, I wanted to be a good example.

In 2011, I began changing my eating habits and working out for the first time, thus Google and YouTube became my best friends. In three months, I went from a little over 140lbs to 125lbs at 5 feet 4 inches. Fitness and nutrition changed my game. I was lighter on my feet, my catches stuck, and my throws were more stable… I became consistent. I was taught how to huck a disc, and I learned that you can be muscular or strong as hell but hucking a disc is all technique. The best part was that I knew growth was infinite, and I yearned for that beyond the physical. 

When I returned to Jacksonville, I was a new player… but there was no team for me to play on! Some went off and moved, got married, had kids, and some guys decided to give the Open division a try. My friends, Ben Nelson and Hunter Whaley, and I got together and we discussed putting a Mixed team together. The three of us sat down with our lists of people we wanted on the team and made sure that every one of us agreed on each person. We called ourselves The Hucking Dead (THD) (after the hit television series, The Walking Dead, of course), and we all had the same goal: to have fun and not get fat. Unfortunately, after that first season, I got fat. So in THD’s second season, I pushed harder, as did most of my teammates. I personally began focusing on my body’s symmetry and simultaneously got on the Warrior Diet, which I understood was a bit controversial—lots of my friends and family thought what I was doing was unhealthy, but after research and self-experimentation, I was convinced that this is what worked for me. I found inspiration from Ultimate players and friends who challenged me, and also from Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighters, Georges St. Pierre and Ronda Rousey. I signed myself up at an awesome MMA gym, The Training Yard, took a couple Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu sessions, and got into strength and conditioning. Trying various kinds of regimens and plans in nutrition and exercise over the years—basically stepping out of my comfort zone—I was changing and becoming more in tune with my body. Again, I went from 140lbs back to 125lbs, except this time around, both knees that were affected by “runner’s knee” and the chronic achilles tendinosis on both of my feet were dormant, my stamina lasted longer, my ups were upper, and I was strong from incorporating weights into my work outs. 2013 was my best season yet, and it all paid off when we won Sectionals. Sadly, I had to leave again for the Philippines, so I ended up not going to Regionals with THD. Tear.

But, thank you to the popular, Mr. Jason “J.Lo” Lopez for inviting me to be a part of his team, I was able to experience Ultimate outside of the Philippines and US. I traveled to Hong Kong for their 13th Annual Pan-Asia tournament in October, and it was an incredible experience and such an honor to play on Junta, go undefeated, and win the whole shebang! Earlier this year, I had the pleasurable experience of helping, spending time with, and learning from Tim Morrill and Alex “AJ” Jacoski when they flew into Manila to introduce Morrill Performance’s brilliant and new Ultimate-specific products. Subsequently, I received a surprise invite from Derek Ramsay to play for Boracay Ultimate at Boracay Open—an invite that was hard to say “No” to despite being out of condition and never having played high level competition on the beach. I had to ask myself, “When am I ever gonna get this kind of opportunity again?” So I went to the beautiful island of Boracay. I trained on sand for the first time and it was embarrassing, so let’s not talk about that. Let’s just say Beach Ultimate is a whole ‘nother game especially in terms of athletic physiology. All I know is, I didn’t think a week of running around in sand would do much improvement, but it did. I had a very memorable trip and would not have met some of the people I am friends with today if I had chosen not to go.Throughout the years, I look back and become overwhelmed with gratitude towards all the people in the Ultimate community who gave me many opportunities on and off the field, and I honestly believe it is through the constant effort—regardless of the amounts of failure—put into sculpting myself from the inside and out. To this day I still don’t think I am good enough, and it is more than not being satisfied, but that I can never get too comfortable when opportunity for improvement is constantly knocking at my door.

And just to add, because another remarkable thing about Ultimate is how “Spirit of the Game” impacted my attitude even outside of the sport with how I approach life and treat people. There isn’t much of a difference on the definition and sense of the term in all the places I have been blessed to play, and that is one of the beauties of this sport: it is the same language everywhere in the world of Ultimate—that’s not to say everyone knows how to speak it. But I love playing with teams and players who truly understand and live it (spirit) through their games and in the real world because I secretly believe it shines a true reflection of a person’s character. I’ve seen several people turn red (mostly over calls made or lack of sunblock) from frustration and anger in a game and it is such a waste of energy when Ultimate is supposed to be a fun game of friendly competition. I’ve seen people get fired up so negatively, talk trash about other players, and try to fight another player in a game. I guess I just have this hippie view on Ultimate where the game should be our happy place—where we should leave our personal problems off the field but rather convert those negative energies into something positive on the field. So to all the Ultimate players out there, pro or not: it is great to be passionate about the sport, but in the end it’s just a game; a game with a number of life lessons and analogies, yes, but, ultimately (pun intended), you are the one sacrificing the time, energy, money—and in many occasions, your body—to play this sport you love, so make it fun and worthwhile!"

I will put an end to this novel with a quote by Walter Payton: “When you’re good at something, you’ll tell everyone. When you’re great at it, they’ll tell you.” What do you think about the most when your mind wanders? Grasp your passion, never stop searching for ways to be great at it, and find humility along the way. You will be surprised with all the people that enter and exit your life, the opportunities that open up to you, and with the right attitude, the results can be rewarding. So, thank you to every person and player that I have come across in this life-long Ultimate tour; regardless of the depth of our relationship, I am forever grateful for having you in my life, and I only hope to leave a positive impression on you."

- Uzzi.

Uzziel Tayag

And that's how you inspire people!  There's nothing left to say but, Thank you, Uzz for this very inspiring write-up! Uzzi will be playing with the team from PUC (Pampanga Ultimate Community) this coming November in Manila Spirits! Looking forward to meet you in Manila. And best of luck on your Ultimate Career!

Anyone out there who would like to share his or her thoughts about the sport that we all love, don't hesitate to PM me on Facebook or inbox me at [email protected]! Your Ultimate community would love to hear your Ultimate experience. No doubt about it!

Until then... TULOY LANG ANG PARTY!!

www.facebook.com/donlacziphoto

www.instagram.com/donlacziart

I have been traveling around the country to photograph Ultimate Frisbee for just over 8 months, and I have been meeting a lot of good people and became friends with along the way. They became part of my life the moment I stepped foot on the beach last February to cover the fifth edition of Paraw Regatta Beach Ultimate, here in Iloilo, up until now that I am preparing myself to cover the biggest Ultimate tournament of my Ultimate photography life, The Manila Spirits this coming November. I have never regretted this decision to support ultimate and be passionate about it.

When you look at these athletes playing their hearts out on the pitch. Having a great time on the sidelines. Partying hard with fellow athletes in the after party. You can tell that they are having the best time of their lives together. Making great memories with comrades across the region. Meeting new folks and became best of friends forever. I gotta say (And I will say it again), Philippine Ultimate Community is definitely one of the best sporting community that I have ever been a part of.

But behind the smiles and laughter of every athlete that I encountered, there will always be that Ultimate Struggle.

The best part of being a photographer is meeting people. The opportunity of getting to know the person that you photographed. In my case, having this privilege to know these Ultimate players personally. We became great friends. We became family. And as a family, we talked about anything under the sun. And in those conversations, the topic of the struggle of an ultimate player is always on the menu. 

I talked to a lot of them over a cup of coffee, or a few bottle of beers, slices of pizzas or a bucket full of Talaba (Oysters). Or during the Jeepney, taxi cabs or bus rides heading home after practices and tournaments. They may be strong and fast on the field. But, most of them are struggling coping up with Ultimate and life all at the same time. But why are they still doing it?

Most of them are students from all walks of life. Trying to balance Ultimate Frisbee and school is pretty tough for most young athletes. Having their trainings after school and working on their homework the rest of the night. Traveling out of town on the weekends to join the team on a two day tournament, and needs to be home early Monday morning just to be on their first period classes. A passionate Ultimate player, studying Medicine is struggling to make a decision if she will continue playing the game that she love, even with very tight schedule during the week. Senior students who are working on their thesis all day and night, not getting enough sleep and rest,  and still sneaking in a two hour practice two-three times a week. Working students juggling school, work, and training on a daily basis is a very exhausting stunt to follow. But why do they still play?

Some of them are not just Ultimate Frisbee players. They are also passionately playing different kind of sports like Basketball, Football, skateboards and longboards. Some are tennis and badminton players and runners. So getting injuries is pretty much on a higher risk. And what comes next after getting injuries? Medical bills. And in this lifetime, getting an ACL surgery and physical therapy sessions is not cheap at all. A simple sprain ankle can change the output of an important game and an important work week for the working class Ultimate players. But why do they still play after a successful surgery. A successful therapy session. A well deserved rest after a banged up weekend?

Ultimate players who are working 5-6 days a week may have the ways and means to pay for all the registrations and travel fares (Well, not all of them, really). But, they do also have their share of struggle balancing ultimate and day jobs.

 One player I met is working graveyard shift in a call center. Scheduled to clock in at Twelve midnight and call it a day at Nine in the morning. Grab a few hours of sleep, pack his bag and begin his training at around six in the evening. Grab a few bites, Get freshen up, and start repeating his cycle of life at Twelve midnight. But why is he still doing it?

Money and family time are also some of the many things an Ultimate player is struggling about. Most especially the provincial athletes, where they have to save up an amount of cash for registrations, travel fares and a few bucks for a place to stay in. I met a few players that they depend on tournament lunches for the whole period of time, for they only have enough money for the registration, a place to stay and to get a ticket back home. Family members and love ones are also part of an Ultimate Struggle. Parents who doesn't like seeing their kids getting home late because of Ultimate Frisbee. Lovers who doesn't like the Ultimate lifestyle that their other half is trying to follow. Classmates and friends who are mad about the game because the game is taking their friends away. But why are they sacrificing all of these for the sake of playing the sport?

I think the answer is plain and simple.... LOVE.

They love Ultimate Frisbee, the same way how they love you. Their family. Friends. Day Jobs. School. Life. It became their escape. Their stress reliever. Their means of expressing who they are. Their lifestyle. Taking away Ultimate Frisbee from these great group of people, is like taking away their rights to breathe. Taking away their rights to feel what Love feels. That time when these guys and gals got a hold of the disc and threw a successful forehand, they became one with the sport. They became part of this amazing community. They became free from all these Ultimate Struggles. These men and women are great group of people. If you take away the one thing they love the most, you are seriously making a big mistake. Let them Play!

You may not agree with all the things that I said here. But this is what I feel. This is what I need to say. This is my Ultimate Perspective.

Until then... TULOY LANG ANG PARTY!!

-Don

www.facebook.com/donlacziphoto

www.instagram.com/donlacziart

And here it is boys and girls!

Mr. Phil Rodriguez of Negros Frisbee Association is organizing the first ever all male / all female Ultimate Frisbee tournament in Negros! Adan at Eba Ultimate Cup will be on November 8, 2014 at Bacolod City National High School (BCNHS)

Registration fee is only P100 pesos, that includes Socials (Party!) and awarding of who will be crowned as the Ultimate Adan's and Eba's of the tournament! (More Party!!) 

I will be there to cover this one day event. And I'm pretty sure this is going to be a good one! 

So discheads.... Are you up for the challenge?!

Until then.... TULOY LANG ANG PARTY!!

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www.instagram.com/donlacziart

Finally the rain decided to stop last Sunday. Just right in time for my trip to Bacolod city to shoot the second day of Ultimate Smile tournament 2014. It was a beautiful day for Ultimate to say the least. After having my breakfast in a carinderia in Bacolod Pier, I went straight to University of Negros Occidental - Recoletos (UNO-R) where the tournament is being held. On my way there, I am mentally preparing myself on what to do. What to shoot. And most especially how to keep myself awake (I went home a little late Saturday night due to another photo shoot here in Iloilo).

When I arrived at the said venue, my excitement is off the charts. But then again, I am always excited every time I am about to shoot an Ultimate Frisbee tournament. I can see some kids throwing discs already from a far while I was walking. And then I saw the playing field. I looked down at my pair of Nike's and said "Sorry, boys... You two will have a horrible time playing in the mud the whole day today!"  So, I grab my gear out from my bag, put on my sleeves and hat, and went out to feel and smell the mud inspired playing fields. The shooting begins

Well technically, the shooting starts after a few minutes of surveying the pitch. I was like that one guy in the ocean being hunted by sharks looking for a dry land. I am looking for that sweet spot to stand on so I can cover the two playing fields and all I can see are ankle high puddle of mud and rainwater in all the areas that I would like to be at. This is going to be a disaster if I can't shoot the other pitch, I need to find that spot! After surveying the ocean (I mean the field) for a few more minutes. I finally found the right spot! LAAAAND! my loud inner voice said. Now that I found my spot, the shooting frenzy officially begins. I heard a lot of good things about Ultimate Smile, and I am really looking forward to shoot a lot of action in this tournament.

The eight teams (I was actually expecting more teams here) in the tournament undeniably delivered some real good action even though the field condition is really bad. Most of the players that I talked to are having a hard time moving, jumping and running. They are also having a tough time throwing and catching the slippery mud covered disc. Every time they go for a lay-out to catch the white saucer, Their full sublimation jerseys turns into full sublimation chocolate brown overalls, with mud face mask as bonus. Definitely an Ultimate mud bath. A free mud spa from UNO-R football field and Spa treatment. Courtesy of Bacolod Ultimate Smile 2014!

But they are all here to play the game. Muddy field or not, they will bring their A-game on the field to give their teams the "W". They will all still chase that disc with no hesitation. And jump as high as they can to grab it for their respective teams. There's no such thing as backing down for these athletes. This is what Ultimate is all about. This is why I love shooting Ultimate.

Boracay Ultimate takes the championship trophy away from Panay Intensity in Pool A and host team Mascobados grabbed the pool B trophy from Team Yson.

Even though almost all of the players looked like an Ati-Ati tribe participants after their games, I can see that they all do had a great time. Huge smiles in every faces that I encountered. The Positive Vibration is always high in this community (Right, Dad? heheheeh...). There are some good and not so good reactions about the tournament. But I'm pretty sure everyone enjoyed their short stay in the City of Smiles. I did (Well I did, after I had my Cheesecake at Calea and my Bob's Satte Babbe dinner fix).

It was an okay tournament for me. The best thing about this trip is meeting new friends and seeing old friends from all over Visayas. Seeing them in every tournament that I went to are always the best part of my journey. I am forever grateful to each and everyone of you for making my experience as an Ultimate Frisbee photographer always memorable.

Until then... TULOY LANG ANG PARTY!!!

- Don

www.facebook.com/donlacziphoto

www.instagram.com/donlacziart

www.twitter.com/donlaczi

We have another Ultimate Guest Blogger today. She is Esther Maris . Let's read on!

BEING A NEW FRISBEE PLAYER

by Esther Maris

I would like to share my experience as a neophyte Frisbee player, there are things that I need to let go when I enter ultimate - that involves my modelling career. hehe But I didn't care because what I get from Ultimate is something way much better! 

  I was the type of girl who never had any interest at sports. I used to play computer games and stay in my room just to read and write stories. Who would have thought that by the time I enter college..I would fell in love with the sport they called as Ultimate Frisbee?

                         Actually, I used to hide myself under the heat of the sun. (I do skin bleaching) but now I lovingly welcome any sunburn that I can get from several tournaments! No regrets fella..no regrets.

  "It's a game for dogs".

  -That's what most people say. Before, I get mad at those type of statements, but now, I laugh at them because I think they're ignorant. Some people think that it’s just a game of throwing and catching but I bet little do they know that you have to stay in your place when you receive a disc (I used to run before haha).

From a normal hobby and stress reliever (since I'm a working student), I never thought that it would be something that I need to complete my day - especially the weekends!

  This is the sport that taught me the word discipline and motivation. Who said that it was easy for me to learn a basic backhand and forehand? It was frustrating but you have to push! Its a competition within your inner self. 

You have to learn every type of defense -capping, man to man and of course how to cut (I still fail to master this one damn!) Not only that, but also Ultimate Frisbee teaches you the true Spirit of the Game - its about being honest since no referee will mediate and of course how to be calm when things get "hot" (nothing physical here dude!)

But even though sometimes you feel bad because you get a lot of mistakes (to that point that no team mate will pass the disc to you) and you start to get mad to the opponent team because they call your huck as "travel!" ..nothing feels more good than playing the game itself - either you win or lose. 

At the end of the day, all of us would still drink and party together haha! I want to tell to new Frisbee players out there that YES, you will have many drops, wrong passes and fail huck attempts but that doesn’t mean you should stop. Let it serve as a drive to become better, because no champion became a winner instantly.

  I am not saying that it’s the best among all sports but I believe that it definitely needs recognition here in our country especially in Universities. If most would indulge with Ultimate, most can ultimately see the chance of excelling. You can see that you would be capable of the things you never thought of doing. Yes, that's the wonderful epiphany of Ultimate.

  And of course, Filipinos are already good in partying, so what are we waiting for? :)

  - Esther Maris

Thank you, Esther! Best of luck on your Ultimate career! You can check out Esther's personal blog here: http://thatgirlesther.blogspot.com/ 

If anyone out there who would like to share the their stories and be a part of this "Ultimate Players Speaks!" movement, don't hesitate to inbox me at [email protected]. You can also send your entries on my facebook page: www.facebook.com/donlacziphoto

Until then... TULOY LANG ANG PARTY!

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www.instagram.com/donlacziart

Wilfredo Bayoneta II a.k.a Jan-Jan or Juan to his good friends is a second year BTH (Theology) student in Central Philippine University here in Iloilo city. An Ultimate Frisbee player for 2 years and team captain of Team Pamilya Hieros of La Carlota city. 

Read on:

What makes ultimate, ULTIMATE?

by Juan Bayoneta

Have you ever heard of a game that “the only fans you have” is your teammate or the sideline folks or a tournament without a cash prize? How about a huddle after the game with the opposing team? Or the most important play is the spirit of the game.

Few years ago a friend of mine invited me to play disc at the sand box of a University school in Bacolod, though I have no idea how to play the game and wondered if there is really a game called Frisbee but  until then, taahhdaaahh! It was love at first play. Loving the sport called Frisbee, I started joining a team in Himamaylan named HILIUSA which composed of church based youth.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned from them is sharing what “ultimate” is, to people who are interested in learning and knowing the game. That’s why I started introducing Frisbee to my church mates in La Carlota and it was my second team PAMILYA HIEROS. The main agenda of our team is to encourage youth in our place to be attached to the game we play and that is where we will insert the evangelism. A strategy that made our ultimate team turned into an ultimate family.

But let me share with you, why I entitled my blog this way. A lot of people outside this round disc don't understand why people like us fell in love in this kind of sport  (if you know what I mean discheads), others will take over of our playing field and others will just dump our game because for them, it’s just a waste of time.

This is why I want you, them, us to let them know what made this game ULTIMATE.

Ultimate is ULTIMATE because of the people behind this so called “ULTIMATE” game. People you may take for granted, people you never include as the greatest, the game maker, but they are your sponsors, coaches and trainers, supporters, gear makers, event organizers, injured players, and photographers.  I also want to give special credits to one of the greatest game catchers, the one who captures our epic smiles, frowns, skin-wounding layouts, our different and our unusual game faces, kudos to you, our photographers. They are not the people who have big names in our industry; they may not have the highest jumps, greatest layouts. But we owe to them the history of our greatest moves, our profile pictures and our dozens and dozens of liker’s. They are maybe the “who” in every games, but they are the ones who makes the ultimate, ULTIMATE.

Ultimate is ULTIMATE because of the best teams around the globe. But of course tatangkilikin ko ang sariling atin. I just want to name a few teams whom I considered best in their own way.

DUMAGUETE EXTREME, the pride of Ilonggo’s, the new National champs. The people behind the successes of our most awaited tournament every year that falls only on August in Negros, “The Ultimate Shindig.” And of course they are well known for their non-stop parties, and I’m looking forward experiencing that next year and more and more years to come.

How about this one? BORACAY DRAGONS. Does it ring a bell? Of course everybody who knows the game, knows them for their one of a kind beach training and God given talents under the heat of the sun. World tours and world champions? The flaming team had that. They are known in the world of Frisbee, because of their unpredictable plays and floating feet in the sand (that’s how fast they run). The Boracay Open tournament opened another door to the world of Frisbee here in the Philippines. Teams from in and out of the country travel to this so called “white paradise” just to play and witness this event. Don’t worry guys your team is included as one of the best in my list. Why? Because your team is a part of how and why this sport of ours, grew this wide and this big.

 Ultimate is ULTIMATE because of you. Yes, YOU, No one else. How do I explain this? Hhhmmmm.  Let me share this to you. Bonding, eating, drinking (coffee) with your teammates or with other players you just met days ago because you are enjoying each other’s company. Relate? Yes, that was you who made that happened. How about this? Overnight sleep, early morning jogs, late night trainings, work outs, road runs and working hard. It's all you. Guys, it’s not just about the game, the best players, or the skies and layouts we made, being ultimate is being you. Having self discipline, being respectful, humble, loving, kind, being a leader that leads the lost, watching each other’s back, or by not giving up on each other and paying attention to everyone. I know these things are not that easy to do. But let me remind you that these are God’s gift to each and every one of us. It’s up to you to discover your own gift. 

Lastly, ultimate is ULTIMATE because of Him who created this game, our JAH up there. And I thank Him not because I know how to throw, but I thank Him for my throw mates. I thank Him not because of the spirit of the game, but because He is the true Spirit in every game we have. Lastly I thank Him for this once in a life time chance He gave me, that you, the one who is reading right now may accept Him as your personal Lord and Savior, so that we will continue this ULTIMATE we love, there in that wonderful place He is preparing for us all and that is in Heaven.

- Juan Bayoneta

Thank you so much, Juan for this wonderful write-up! You truly are one of those players who passionately love and living the Ultimate lifestyle with pride. Keep inspiring the youth!

Keep those write-ups coming Ladies and Gents! Be a part of this "Ultimate Players Speaks!" movement here in The Lokal Perspective. Keep inspiring people, for I believe that, every one of us here on earth is an inspiration... Let us inspire each other for the good of all! 

Until then... TULOY LANG ANG PARTY!!!

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www.instagram.com/donlacziart

We have another Ultimate Guest Blogger who would like to share her thoughts about our beloved sport, Ultimate Frisbee!

Jobelle Engo is a Lasallian from Bacolod city. Played Ultimate for 3 years now and is currently a vital member of a new Bacolod Ultimate team, Team Kaiju. 

Read on:

Anything and Everything about Ultimate

By Jobelle G. Engo

  I’ve learned that the best stories to read are those that are real and personal to the writer. So here is what I have to say.

  My Frisbee story starts on the first summer of my college days. I had just been through my freshman year in USLS and learned more things that a high school classroom could not teach.

  In a twist of fate, (for I believe all things are part of destiny), I was introduced to “Frisbee” by my club mates in LAmbs a.k.a. Lasallian Ambassadors. I had no idea until later that it was officially called “Ultimate Frisbee”.

  Remember where we had our First Ever Indoor Ultimate during Lasallian Week 2014? Yes, that’s where I had my first go at the sport.

  We weren’t aware of any specific rules or strict dos and don’ts of the game, and we were having the time of our lives. Ignorance is bliss indeed. I remember we were just wearing our civilian clothes but that did not stop us from playing. (I have one pair of jeans ripped in the knee due to this).

  As a college student, it was just a new pastime after class. I had not yet fathomed that it would grow much more than that.

   The years went by, and I am now in my third year of Ultimate Frisbee lifestyle. Playing the sport gradually transitioned from the College Covered Court onto the Field. Needless to say, it is one of the things that take up a lot of space in my heart.

  Why do I love it? Let me count the ways. (In no particular order.)

First, I get to meet new people. The more people to enjoy Ultimate with, the better. That’s why baby teams and newbie players are ALWAYS encouraged by everyone. Bata, matanda, may ngipin o wala, anyone is welcome to play.

  Second, it gives me free and FUN exercise. Nothing is more bothering than the obligatory workout to keep ourselves healthy. What better way to shed sweat than through an interactive sport?  

  Third, it becomes a form of stress reliever. When the going gets tough, ultimate keeps the strain away. You’ll be busy playing hard to get that disc to the endzone, thus keeping your school/family/work/love/financial/you-name-it troubles tucked far away for the moment.

  Fourth, it gives people the chance to practice self-discipline. Ultimate does not have ‘official referees’ to see to it that players follow every rule in the book. Any discussions are carried out among the players themselves. It’s up to us to hold out to Honesty and Integrity. 

Fifth is the building of Teamwork. On the field, there are seven of you playing against seven of the other team. Give your teammates a chance to get a hold of that disc and show what they’ve got. Success is so much sweeter when EVERYONE worked hard for it.

  Sixth is I get to go to places. Literally! Travelling is one of the greatest perks of playing Ultimate. When you have no reason to go someplace, Ultimate Frisbee gives you a reason. May it be a National Tournament, a Local Tournament or just a Pass-d-hat for a team; save up for the travel and go get your bags packed. It’s also a form of vacation! Enjoy the journey, play ultimate, explore the city and come back home with lessons and lots of memories.

Lastly is the Socials Night. In what Sports Event is a party made official in its itinerary? In Ultimate of course! After a hard day’s work, you get to look forward to the fun night ahead. Awards, music, dancing, games and drinking (optional of course)… nothing better gets you in the mood to highlight the weekend and have a good time with your teammates.

  All these times that I’ve played Ultimate I say: Win or lose, just the fact that you’re playing is something to celebrate. It’s not always about bringing home the championship trophy. Be happy for those who made it on top. Sure it’s the best possible outcome, but sometimes doing your best FOR the team and having fun WITH the team, that is fulfilling enough. Cheers!

 -Jobelle Engo

" I'm trying to prove that girls can play great in Ultimate too... Girl Power!" - Jobelle Engo

Thank you so much, Jobelle, for this wonderful write-up! I totally agree on point number six. Travelling is definitely one of the perks of being an Ultimate player. or even for an Ultimate Photographer. Because of Ultimate, I've been to places that I haven't been to before. And I get the chance to do the thing that I love all at the same time? Why the hell not! 

Looking forward to see Jobelle in action next weekend in Smile Ultimate Tournament in Bacolod city. Good luck, Jobelle! 

Until then... TULOY LANG ANG PARTY!!

If you would like to share your thoughts about the sport and would like to share it to the whole Ultimate community, please do send me a Private Message on Facebook or send me an Email: [email protected] 

English or Tagalog, pwede! Sulat na!

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Eat. Drink. Ultimate. Repeat.

I think that's the best statement to describe The Cabalen Ultimate Open 2014 in Pampanga. They say, Pampanga is the Culinary Capital of the Philippines. I say, Pampanga is the FREAKIN' Food Haven in the Philippines! "Ngayong tournament lang nangyari na hindi ako nalasing sa alak.... Nalasing ako sa sobrang dami ng masasarap na pagkain!"

It was such a wonderful experience to be there and witness the teams from Luzon battle it out to grab the first ever Cabalen Ultimate Open (CUO) crown. It was also great to finally tasted the best Sisig on the planet. Having "Betuteng Tugak (frog)" for dinner at "MATAM-IH" was a close second. It does taste like chicken. (If you're in Pampanga, you really have to try this place, "Matam-ih". Maja Salavador and Kim Chiu works there as waitresses when they are off from making Telenovelas!) The Sinigang na Baka from Kopung Kopung (Did I spell it right?), The Palabok, Sapin-Sapin and Ham & Cheese Empanada from Susies. The Dinuguang Pata, Kilayin, Bopis, Buro, etc. etc. Every food that I shoved in to my mouth was pure works of art! It was amazing!

But enough with the food talk and let's talk about Ultimate!

From Mabalacat, my brother gave me a ride to Essel Park in San Fernando where the tournament takes place. When I arrived at the venue, I finally met Jansie and Russell for the first time, two of the organizers of the tournament and members of Team Pamp'ed Up Chicks and Chongs. Very cool bunch of kids! The tournament was so kind enough to hand me an event shirt that fits me (FINALLY!!). The Tie-dyed shirt was beautifully made. I also saw some familiar faces from Sunken Pleasure and DJ Tutay's team, Team Disco Po! It was pretty cool to see them there. So, I put away the shirt, grab my camera, went out on the field, and started shooting.

My best bud, The great ball of fire, is starting to heat up the field (as usual). Trying to keep me off the pitch. But I am more prepared now after the fire ball beat me singlehandedly in Dumaguete. The answer? Protective sleeves, and a cap. With lots of water and Gulaman to drink, these two simple things helps keep my skin protected from sun burns. "Not this time" I said. I will shoot the heck out of this tournament....

While I was having my own battle against the sun, a member of Team Minions of Subic approached me, introduced himself and asked me if I was the guy that flew from Iloilo. He told me that they are religiously following my Page on Facebook. He also mentioned that, just by looking at the photos from Visayas and Mindanao tournaments, they feel like they were there with me even if they are not. They were so thankful that I was there in Pampanga covering CUO.  But let me tell you this... I am the one that should be thankful to all of you for giving your best on the pitch and making the pictures look good. You are the ones that are making this possible. I was just there to capture the moment, and preserve it forever. I am nothing without you all great athletes!

Lots of amazing plays are happening on both playing fields. But, what really caught my attention are the women of every teams in this tournament. The ladies from Sunken Pleasure are always on their A game. Ysa of Team Moon Cake was phenomenal. And Of course, The Liwanag sisters of Pamp'ed up Chicks & Chongs. These two girls plays high quality Ultimate Frisbee every single game. They are fun to watch. I am looking forward to see them play again, if I will get an opportunity to photograph Manila Spirits in November (fingers crossed).

After the Saturday night Flower People themed socials at Nepo parking lot, as usual, the players took the field with hangovers and lots of excitement on Day 2 of the tournament. Quarters, Semis and Championship games are up for grabs. A loud voice called my name from the distance while I was trying to walk properly going to the event (Hangover is a B*tch, indeed).  Boss Peng is in the building! Or shall I say, Boss Peng is on the battle field! It's always great to see him in tournaments.

Day 2 started with a bang. Big plays here and there. All teams are in it to win it! There was one time that it only took a second for me to put my camera away from my shooting eye because there a lot of awesome plays from one field to another. It was so tough to capture everything. But I sure do had a great time being there up close in both playing fields. Bodies flying all over the place just a few feet away from me. It was like you're in a warzone where you are being bombed by people with discs on their hands... It was awesome! The Cabalen Ultimate Open has finally arrived!

CUO2014 sure did put on a great show, but what struck me the most until now was the presence of the Spirit Of The Game the whole weekend. High fiving opponents after a great score. Low fiving opponents after making an impressive D. Cheering on the other team even though they are far more ahead of you in scoring. Helping an opponent stand on their feet after a bad fall. Mikko of Sunken Pleasure helped one of the Liwanag sisters when she had an injury by carrying her on his arms off the field. The huddles are always fun to watch. There's not much arguments or conflicts happened during the weekend. The positive vibe was electric on every players on and off the field. The Spirit Of The Game is totally upon them.

In the end, Sunken Pleasure won the CUO 2014 title versus Pampanga's Pamp'ed up Chicks & Chongs in Pool A, and Team Minions took the championship away from Team Disco Po! in Pool B. After all the games were done, coolers full of beers were pouring in on the field. Party time! The organizers prepared a Kapampangan food festival themed awards night in Suburbia Village, were everyone was catered with authentic Kapampangan dishes. I, myself had a great time on that one. Having Buro for the first time was an awesome experience and of course (and I will say this all over again) The Best Sisig On The Planet was the highlight of the night! A wonderful video highlight from Day 1 of the tournament by Tim & Co. Creative Solutions was prepared for all of us to see, but due to some technical difficulties, we all watched Sponge Bob Squarepants and Squidward battle it out on the projector and watched the Day 1 highlights using a laptop instead. We sure all do had a blast on that one!

If you love food and Ultimate all at the same time, The Cabalen Ultimate Open in Pampanga is definitely the tournament that you need to be a part of. Pampanga has a lot to offer, and it would be great to see this tournament grow bigger next year and the rest of the years to come. Congratulations to all the organizers of CUO 2014. You all did a phenomenal job in organizing this event! I would really love to see you all here and visit Iloilo city for a tournament. Mag-Batchoy naman kayo! Hope to see you again next year in Pampanga mga Cabalen!

Big thanks to my brother Sal, and the Morales family for putting on a roof on my head and a cool van to ride on during my stay in Pampanga!

What's next for The Lokal Perspective? I will be on a one day coverage of Smile Ultimate Tournament in Bacolod city this coming October 12. Masskara na! See you there Bacolodnons!

I've finally reached my goal to shoot Ultimate in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao in just 7 months of shooting Frisbee. There's no way that I could make this goal without the help of The Philippine Ultimate community. I wholeheartedly thank every single one of you! Ibang klase talaga kayong lahat!

Until then... TULOY LANG ANG PARTY!!!

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We have another Ultimate guest blogger! Precious Apurado is from Bacolod City and has been playing Ultimate for a year now. She plays for Team Hieros.

Read on!

FIVE PRECIOUS THINGS I LEARNED ABOUT ULTIMATE FRISBEE

by: Precious Apurado

I play Ultimate Frisbee for a year already. I used to be a Volleyball and Badminton player and yes, this is my first outdoor sport. In every sport, I learn something. But in Frisbee, I learned... A LOT.

I’m sure that I’m not the only one who’s learning these things. I am an athlete since 4th grade and these things that I learned from Frisbee made me a better person to my friends, my family and to my team. I can only give 5 things.

The first thing that I learned from Ultimate Frisbee is, Submission. You, yourself, as part of the team should submit yourself to your team and to your captain. Submission is the start of camaraderie. It’s hard to pass the disc or to huck it if you don't trust the receiver, right? (esp in a universal point) But it's also a practice for us to trust our teammates.

Second, Honesty. They say there’s always a bias in every competition. But not in Frisbee. This game helps every dischead to practice honesty on the field. That’s why we don’t have referees in the first place, because we, ourselves, trust that we can be honest and truthful during the game. Although, there are some arguments on the field, truth will always prevail. It also shows that discheads are not cheap to cheat.

Third thing is, Unity. In Frisbee, I met and observed a lot of people from different places, from different cultures. I became friends with people that I did not expect to be friends with. Maybe because of their age, their culture or beliefs but I don’t it mind at all. During our first tournament, I noticed that every time the game ends, these teams gather in circle and have a discussion. I asked my friend what’re they doing and he told me that they’re having a “huddle”. For me, huddle is really important. It shows that whether we win or lose, we are still united. A team that isn’t united cannot be considered as a team. Well, it is not just the huddle that shows unity but also the “Socials”. Where all teams from different places and culture gather to celebrate and enjoy.

Fourth, is to Enjoy. Nobody plays Frisbee without enjoying it. Everybody enjoys it even if it’s raining or extremely hot. Enjoyment doesn’t base on the weather. All my life, I’ve never experienced to laugh even if someone has already hit my cheek. Though there’s pain, I still laugh about it. You see, pain and exhaustion cannot be felt if you enjoy what you are doing. Some people got scratches on their elbows, on the abdomen or legs because of lay-outs or skies. But they still smile. Even if they lose,They're okay with it. Maybe because in Frisbee, there’s no pressure at all. This is a game where everybody’s goal is to enjoy not to win. Discheads aren’t after for trophies or titles, they’re after for fun and enjoyment.

The last thing is, to be Yourself. When I started playing Ultimate, I always bring a bottle of sun block with me in my bag to avoid sun burns. But guess what? I still got burned. At first, I was too shy and conscious to go to school because of my dark, sun burnt face. My friends laughed at me because my nose is starting to peel its skin. But as the day goes by, I asked myself, “Why would I be ashamed about it if it makes me happy?” What makes you happy is part of who you are. Why would I be ashamed about having this sun burnt skin if I had an amazing time with amazing people? I learned to be deaf about what others are saying about my dark, sun burned face or my bruises or scratched legs every Monday because I have enjoyed playing under the sun. Some people won’t understand you, because they don’t know what Ultimate Frisbee is all about. They don’t know what kind of enjoyment you had during the weekend.

These are the five things that I learned from Ultimate Frisbee. I am just a year-old dischead and I know that there are a lot of discheads out there who have their lessons to share.

- Precious Apurado

Precious Apurado. Bacolod City

Thank you so much, P for this awesome write-up! I can totally relate to this, especially on Sun burnt skin situation. I have been burnt multiple times shooting Ultimate. The worst one was during this years Shindig 2014. A lot of people asked me why am I risking myself just to take the shot. My answer is simple. Because it's fun. It makes me who I am. I will take risks just to get that perfect photo. I will do the best I can to help Ultimate Frisbee. And this is the only thing I know how to help spread the word about Philippine Ultimate. One things for sure, I will be out there shooting... Even if that gigantic ball of fire up there try and successfully beat me to the ground all over again. 

Until then... TULOY LANG ANG PARTY!!

- Don

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La Carlota City, Negros', Jead Dela Llave speaks about his experience as an Ultimate Frisbee player and a Pastor at the same time. Another Ultimate Guest Blogger! Be inspired!

It is already about a year ago since Jan-Jan introduced to us the sport called ultimate Frisbee in our church. As a beginner, he taught us how to hold the disc and how to throw it whether it is forehand or backhand. As time goes by after 3 months, we joined our first tournament in Negros, it is a beginners cup. Below 1 year of experience players are only allowed to play and we won 3rd place in that tournament. But since I was here in Iloilo, first its hard to find people who play ultimate as a beginner like me. Lucky enough that here in Central Philippine University (CPU), I found a group of people who throw discs to each other, Chucks, Jam, and Ledon. I already know the team Strippers or also known today as Panay Intensity(P.I.), but its hard for me or shall I say for us to play with them, they are already experienced players, most of them already played in great teams such as Boracay Dragons, Team Rogers, and Extreme Dumagute. Wow! Watching them playing is really good to my eyes to see people who dive just to catch a disc risking their lives or to sky with an opponent? Owwh its amazing! Joash, as a friend encourage me to go with him in Iloilo Sports Complex, where the people from P.I were practicing and for that night for the first time I played with them, feels awkward and even felt so inferior in that moment. So to state this, I thought they will not welcome me, but I'm wrong. They accepted me as a beginner and taught me how to play the game properly, really appreciate how they made me feel that I'm not a stranger to them, some of them have pleasing personalities, some of them are scary, and some of them are easy go lucky. Yes, this is really a team united in one purpose with different attitudes, came from different places, different expertise and different abilities. Months have passed training with them and I was invited to my first beach ultimate tournament, The Paraw Regatta, Unleashed 5 beach ultimate. It is also the first time of nong Don Laczi, shooting ultimate! Not joining the team P.I ., but I played on ringer teams. Played in team Dragons and Ziiggy Zaggy. It was one of the most memorable moment of my life. Why? For the first time I've conquered the fear to layout! Sounds funny. It boast my self confidence as well, it motivates me more to push my self harder. I want to learn more, I want to know how to throw well, to catch, to dive. I love sports since I was in elementary to my college years, I was already a varsity in badminton. During Elementary, I was a Batang Pinoy champion, high school- college also in Palarong Pambansa level, I know how to be an athlete and a good player, it needs an extra effort, discipline, and a teachable heart but this game is different, not playing alone or doubles but playing as a team 7 on the line. It needs cooperation, chemistry, coordination and communication. I am a Pastor and I Love ultimate. It promotes the spirit of the game(honesty, respect) even sometimes there's a little arguments involve, but it must only be settled by you and your defender. Wow I am really amazed, there is still a kind of game that there's no referee and honesty is only required. To reflect on the game, God works in different people in different ways. Team is compose of different people with different abilities and capacities, just look at your body. You have ears, mouth, hands, head etc all of this are useful but functions differently to each other. Thanks to P.I who are still teaching me today and made me feel that I belong to their team. To be with them is such a great experience, joy, funny moments, lots of laughter and many more, one way to build accountability and relationship to each other. Not just as a team but also as a Family. God bless us all!

And now, I played as an experienced player in our beginners cup. Still pushing myself to improve more and learn more about this game, not only to play in Local tournaments, but also hoping to play with them in the Nationals. Ultimate is not just a hobby anymore, it takes passion and desire to be a good player. Hoping someday I can defend people I idolized like Dada, Jeffrey, and a lot more. I still believe that a great player is the one who can control his/her emotions inside the field, the one who can encourage a teammate to rise up and fight, the one who lifts the spirit of one another to win. Maybe there's a purpose why God let us know about Frisbee, even though we are Pastors. But for me despite of our heavy duties in the church as a Pastor, as a Preacher, we are always left empty. But everytime we play ultimate, problems temporarily disappears and it is refreshing to my feelings. For this things another family has arise, the Panay Intensity family. Friends that can wipe out your loneliness. Maybe someday all the youths that I'm handling in the church will also play frisbee. I believe there is still Frisbee in Heaven. Let your life be like a disc and God is the perfect thrower. Keep yourself flying until the time He will catch you.

- Jead

Jead is now a Second/Third year Theology student in Central Philippine University. Been playing Ultimate for about a year now.

Thank you, Jead! 

The Lokal Perspective have been receiving blogs from the Ultimate Community lately, and I personally thank you all for doing so! Please do keep the write ups coming. Share something to the community. Be an inspiration. A motivator. A leader. I would really love to hear more from you guys. I'm sure the rest of the Ultimate community would love it too! 

Until then... TULOY LANG ANG PARTY!

-Don

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Part 3 of Cara Uy's Ultimate experience as she became a part of the Iloilo Ultimate community! This post is dedicated most especially to the folks from Iloilo Ultimate. You guys definitely made an awesome impact to these new found players and friends. Keep it up and be an example to these players! TULOY LANG ANG PARTY AT LIGAYA MGA KASAMA! 

The Ultimate Change Part 3

People might wonder why I play this game considering that I have limited time.

  And now is the time that I answered my own question some 7 years ago. It's when you do something you enjoy with and do it passionately, there’s no need to question. Ultimate has changed my life in many ways untold. The most was fueling me to become motivated about life in general, radiating positivity to negativity. Passion on learning the game is being transcended in my anhedonia in studying.

  At some certain moments, life has become mundane and skies turn gray; and some good memories fade away. I seek comfort of being alone, but Ultimate didn’t leave me a frown face.

  Generally, Ultimate tries to inspire you to overcome life blocks, leading you to a good offense at the end zone of your dreams and will call you a travelling/foul to reset a fast break fault/error. You’ll bend on your knees knowing heavens made it to be broken so you need to be careful and exercise caution and fasten area in secure. Disc flies high and will prompt you to catch and live passion way up. And when you drop the disc down, it would mean; you need to stand up and make up. You have your team with you in all the games; you would never feel so alone in wins/falls. KUDOS ULTIMATE ILOILO TEAM!

  Special thanks to Olivier, my first grip of disc was when he handed me throws May this year. I would never know Ultimate without him. It feels like home whenever I play Ultimate with Iloilo team/your friends. I am reminded…salamat! XD

- Cara Uy

Thank you so much, Cara for sharing your ultimate experience. I am definitely looking forward to see you again on the pitch, owning the field with Iloilo Ultimate! More power to you, and keep on playing Ultimate!

-Don

Cara Uy in action!