Sizing Up Your Opponent

In my 2 and a half years of competitive ultimate, I have faced a variety of opponents. More often than not, I have been successful (or at least, I’d like to think), and I feel that others can gain from what I’ve learned. So here are a few things to think about when you’re lining up against the other team.

First thing, know what we’re forcing. Double check it. Even yell out the question as you’re running down the field if you still aren’t sure. Different forces dictate different positioning strategies. But that is more team strategy; whereas, I will focus on a more personal strategy.

Always ask your self two questions:

1. Is my opponent faster than me?

2. Is my opponent smarter than me?

Case 1: You answer no to both

Awesome. The only way you’re getting beat on this point is if you beat yourself. Two strategies can work here. If your opponent is their main cutter, then an “in your shorts” style is appropriate. Completely shutting him down not only demoralizes him, but the whole team gives up when they see you line up against him. If your opponent is a rather lazy cutter, then poaching will work best, but you have to be careful. Seeing a scrub catching a score cause you got caught is not a great feeling.

Case 2: Yes to the first. No to the second.

So he’s a better athlete than you, but he’s as dumb as the words that spew from Mickey’s mouth (Mick, I’m sorry I’m not sorry). Usually, this opponent has one cut, and he’s usually going deep. Take away his best cut. He won’t be used to making other cuts, and you can usually force him into making a mistake. Also, his newfound inability to make effective cuts will throw off the rest of the offense. Use your experience against him. Use your positioning to force him to make a spectacular play. 9 times out of 10, the disc will hit the ground.

Case 3: No to the first. Yes to the second.

You’re a stud, and he’s fat. Don’t take it for granted. He’s just one smart cut away from tooling you all over the field. Not to mention that he probably possesses some sweet throws. Step one: don’t get broken. If he’s a long, take away the in-cut. Play him hard underneath (that’s what she said). You can always catch him going deep. If he’s a handler, do not get beat up line, but you can afford to play him a little tighter. Now, let’s say he does go deep, and the disc goes up. Play the disc, not the man. If you play the man, he’ll out position you almost every time. If you play the disc, then you get in your best position to make the grab, which is probably better than his since you’re more athletic.

Case 4: Yes to both

You’re in for a long point, or a very quick and brutal embarrassment. You usually know you’re in this situation when you see his eyes light up. But do not despair. There’s a still a chance to ease your suffering. Take away the most dangerous threat. Longs, shade deep. Handlers, play the up-line cut hard. Give him only one option to get the disc, cause, let’s face it, he’s going to get the disc. Limit the damage he can do, and trust your teammates to take up the slack. There’s a reason why six other guys are on the line.