In preparation for the upcoming Bharat Tournament in Hyderabad from June 2 to June 4, 26 players from Kerala are gearing up to represent the state in the sport of Ultimate Frisbee. Training sessions have been underway in various locations like Kolenchery, Chalakudy, and Kochi, leading up to the competition.
Kerala’s Growing Love for Ultimate Frisbee
Over the past few years, Ultimate Frisbee has gained popularity in Kerala, with dedicated communities in cities like Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, and Kochi actively engaging in the sport. The majority of players on the Kerala team hail from Kochi, including a group of 11 children involved in a program by JustdotPlay, an NGO supporting children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The Impact of Sports on Life Skills
With the JustdotPlay Foundation, Anand Varghese Mathew and Peter J Pulikkunnel aim to utilize sports as a tool for development, teaching valuable life skills and promoting gender equality among children. This initiative has seen success in nurturing young talents in Kerala, with 11 children from diverse backgrounds being part of the state team.
Unveiling the Competitive Side of Ultimate
Beyond casual disc-throwing, Ultimate Frisbee has a competitive edge, as teams from various Indian states gear up to participate in the Bharat Trophy organized by the Ultimate Players Association of India (UPAI). This recognition of Ultimate as a competitive sport marks a significant milestone for the growing Ultimate community in Kerala.
The Diverse Composition of the Kerala Team
The current tournament follows a mixed format, with both male and female players comprising the teams. From youngsters aged 12 and above to seasoned players aged 43, the Kerala team boasts a diverse range of participants from different professions, highlighting the inclusive nature of the sport.
Challenges and Opportunities in Ultimate Frisbee
The selection process for the Kerala team involved rigorous tryouts held in April, culminating in a final squad of seven players ready to showcase their skills at the national-level tournament. The strategic balance of gender representation in each match adds depth to the gameplay, fostering a fair and engaging competition.
Empowering Through Sport: JustdotPlay’s Vision
JustdotPlay’s decision to compete at the national level stemmed from an invitation by UPAI, bringing together Ultimate teams from different cities to promote the sport’s growth and competitiveness. This collaborative effort reflects the shared vision of empowering youth through sports and fostering a vibrant Ultimate community.
Conclusion
As the Kerala team embarks on its journey to compete in the Bharat Tournament, the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie shines through, showcasing the transformative power of Ultimate Frisbee in shaping young minds and fostering a sense of community.