Since its raining, we're sure desperate BPL players will be dropping by the blog today, looking for something ... anything.
Happy Birthday Carl. Long may you do those things that you do.
Is the 'chair lift' legal in Ultimate? Probably (on the basis of it also being legal to sit on the field playing matchbox cars or Twister), but can't be arsed working it out today. Let us know in the comments.
Also hope you're all following John McNaughton's North American Adventure Blog.
Everyone should play the BPL Winter Draft.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Accidental Collisions Are Not Ok
There've been a few conversations near the stately Brisbane Ultimate Blog mansion about collisions on the Ultimate field.
Specifically your blog-keeper has noticed several collisions in the BUML over the last month or so, and then heard someone recently went to hospital after being cleaned up (thankfully, concussion was not diagnosed and the lady went home with "only" a very sore head).
Your blog-keeper is a bit hard-core on avoiding collisions on the field, as his soccer (a collision sport) career was ended with such an accident, leading to taking up Ultimate (talk about a silver lining!) Sure, he's getting on a bit, but he hopes to be playing disc for another decade. A bad collision will however end that (he's getting fragile - as we all will with age). I hope that at whatever age you took it up, everyone can imagine themselves in 20-30-40 year Ultimate careers.
So we encourage readers to remind everyone (either all your team before your next game, or talking on the sidelines to individual players) that dangerous play is against both the Spirit of the Game (so don't crash into people please, or even look like you are going to!), and are always fouls (if someone crashes into you or makes you think they are going to, call foul immediately).
I had a chat to a couple of newer players last night, and realised that we need to ensure people grasp the nuance that in Ultimate "collisions are still your fault even if they are accidental".
Other sports have a (rubbish) concept about there being "no malice" in accidental collisions and that being ok.
In our sport, you have a responsibility to avoid collision (and otherwise injuring people through flailing arms, elbows and knees) - even if this means slowing down and/or taking your eye off the disc (ie risking a drop or missing a chance at a block) to have a look around you to make sure you know where other players are (ie reducing the risk of collision).
Accidents are not ok - they are avoidable and they are every player's responsibility to avoid.
Newer players are often still learning the rules and the self-control required for Ultimate, and may be coming from other sports where the style is to put your and other people's bodies on the line to contest the pill, and then get up and shake it off afterwards. Newer players are also less able to call foul following the shock of being nailed. Older players may be psyching themselves up to win games and be tempted to lose control. But remember that Ultimate is a social sport built around everyone's enjoyment - there are no sheep stations on the line here. The competition is with ourselves.
-----------------------------------
WFDF Rules of Ultimate
1.6. The following actions are clear violations of the spirit of the game and must be avoided
by all participants:
1.6.1. dangerous play and aggressive behaviour;
.....
17.1. Dangerous Play:
17.1.1. Reckless disregard for the safety of fellow players regardless of whether or
when contact occurs is considered dangerous play and is treated as a foul. This
rule is not superseded by any other rule.
Specifically your blog-keeper has noticed several collisions in the BUML over the last month or so, and then heard someone recently went to hospital after being cleaned up (thankfully, concussion was not diagnosed and the lady went home with "only" a very sore head).
Your blog-keeper is a bit hard-core on avoiding collisions on the field, as his soccer (a collision sport) career was ended with such an accident, leading to taking up Ultimate (talk about a silver lining!) Sure, he's getting on a bit, but he hopes to be playing disc for another decade. A bad collision will however end that (he's getting fragile - as we all will with age). I hope that at whatever age you took it up, everyone can imagine themselves in 20-30-40 year Ultimate careers.
So we encourage readers to remind everyone (either all your team before your next game, or talking on the sidelines to individual players) that dangerous play is against both the Spirit of the Game (so don't crash into people please, or even look like you are going to!), and are always fouls (if someone crashes into you or makes you think they are going to, call foul immediately).
I had a chat to a couple of newer players last night, and realised that we need to ensure people grasp the nuance that in Ultimate "collisions are still your fault even if they are accidental".
Other sports have a (rubbish) concept about there being "no malice" in accidental collisions and that being ok.
In our sport, you have a responsibility to avoid collision (and otherwise injuring people through flailing arms, elbows and knees) - even if this means slowing down and/or taking your eye off the disc (ie risking a drop or missing a chance at a block) to have a look around you to make sure you know where other players are (ie reducing the risk of collision).
Accidents are not ok - they are avoidable and they are every player's responsibility to avoid.
Newer players are often still learning the rules and the self-control required for Ultimate, and may be coming from other sports where the style is to put your and other people's bodies on the line to contest the pill, and then get up and shake it off afterwards. Newer players are also less able to call foul following the shock of being nailed. Older players may be psyching themselves up to win games and be tempted to lose control. But remember that Ultimate is a social sport built around everyone's enjoyment - there are no sheep stations on the line here. The competition is with ourselves.
-----------------------------------
WFDF Rules of Ultimate
1.6. The following actions are clear violations of the spirit of the game and must be avoided
by all participants:
1.6.1. dangerous play and aggressive behaviour;
.....
17.1. Dangerous Play:
17.1.1. Reckless disregard for the safety of fellow players regardless of whether or
when contact occurs is considered dangerous play and is treated as a foul. This
rule is not superseded by any other rule.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Halibut Date Change
Halibut 2012 will be held on 18-19 August at Carrara on the Gold Coast, not the traditional first weekend in August (4-5) as previously notified.
Friday, May 25, 2012
BUML 2012-1: Round 12 – A career in politics is no preparation for government!
So for those who are playing at home … we’ve run out of quotes from the Octonauts television show to use in the titles of the previews this season. Octonauts is cool. Anyway, give yourself a kipper if you knew the source of the quotes. We’re now onto another television show.
So we’re into Round 12 … gee, is it just us or has the season done well to avoid the mid-season drag? I think partly it’s the great work of the BUML Organising Committee, who remain nearly invisible behind the scenes. Things keep ticking along neatly. For those of us who’ve been around a few blocks, we’re enjoying the luxury.
There’s four games left of the regular season before Finals time, so almost every team is desperate (but only Griffith FC seem to be dateless).
**Division 2: Larry
>>Baby Chimis vs Disc-Iples – Annerley 3A
>>Bermuda Triangle vs Heroes – Easts 2
>>What the Huck vs Discheads – Easts 3
>>Tsunami vs Agent Orange – Gap 1
Let’s look at this division as a whole, because there’s been a few surprises in recent weeks that could rock the boat. The stand-out of course has been the unfancied Chimis rolling Agent Orange last week, 14-12. No doubt the red resurgence was sparked by a bit of off-hand smack-talk over at the Heroes Blog. The Babies will be looking for a second in a row against fellow cellar dwellars the Disc-Iples. Both teams won’t be making the Finals this season, but have plenty of spoiler potential. Bermuda of course are all set for the Finals, as are Tsunami and What the Huck?, but all three will be keen to keep winning. Bermuda will consider the Heroes easy meat, but the Heroes need to get at least three more wins to have a chance into the Semis, and so will be hucking long on Monday. The ladder is tight though, with third placed What the Huck? taking on the fourth placed Discheads, who remain a chance to drop with a tough draw to finish the season. The Huckers drew with Tsunami last week to set up some tasty future battles, but the big waves will feel like they can merely ripple this week against Agent Orange.
>Our Tips: Baby Chimis on form, Bermuda on dominance, What the Huck? on speed, and Tsunami on endurance.
**Division 3: Moe
>>Apostles vs Slipped Discs – Annerley 5A
>>Griffith Go-Go’s vs Yeast – Annerley 5B
>>Mellow Yellow vs QUTies – Griffith 1
>>Griffith Oh Yeahs vs Griffith FC – Griffith 2
Things are very very interesting in Division 3. Being the ‘lowest’ division, some would expect these teams to also be slightly less organised than the crack military units you find further up the BUML tree. Such observers of course are demonstrating their complete misunderstanding of Ultimate. In reality, some teams have their shit together, and some don’t, and that’s the competition. The easy game to pick this week is first vs eighth – the Griffith Go-Go’s, who’re now getting used to the idea of JdR leaving and probably now playing better, should defeat the Yeast, who remain valiant in their inaugural season. One would also think the Griffith Oh Yeahs should have the experience to take care of Griffith FC, but the work of each team varies a lot from week to week, and with the right combo on the grass (like the one that scared the pants off the Apostles last Monday) they may get up. The Oh Yeahs certainly play better at home. Then things get quite interesting. After swinging the pink at every team in the competition, the Apostles come through their three games in a row against Griffith teams (two losses and then a tight win over FC) looking vulnerable. The Slipped Discs meanwhile have continued to improve through the season, culminating in last Monday’s surprise 15-6 demolition of Mellow Yellow. The Brisbane Beer Club must be looking very closely at its continue sponsorship of the Yellows, who apparently have considered selling the fridge and flying veteran Eireann back for the remainder of the season. MY have an opportunity this week against the QUTies, but the students might have their shit together this week after only scrapping together seven players 40 minutes late last week.
>Our Tips: Griffith Go-Go’s are too good, the Oh Yeahs will pride themselves through, the Apostles will right the ship, and Mellow Yellow will work it out.
**Division 1: Curly
>>The Ghost Who Walks vs Poachers – Annerley 3B
>>Dyspnoeics vs Drop Bears – Easts 1
>>UQ Lovers vs White Lantern – Gap 2
Division one is now mostly sorted out, with all teams having played themselves twice, we know who's got form over whom, and who is Gref's beotch and all that. But there’s some vagarities in the draw, some kinks to ease out, and some adjustments to the top four that still need to occur before the finals hit. The Poachers have smashed the Greater Western Walkers twice previously, and will do so again, keeping in mind that they’re currently second on goal difference and the sour taste of last week’s draw. They Dyspnoeics notoriously play badly during State of Origin time, but they’ve won some big games recently – every game in fact since their 13-13 draw with the Drop Bears just over a month ago. So maybe this game will be tigher than some think. The big battle in Division 1 this week (the one we would televise, if we could – at least because one of these teams has the most handsome lads on the scene), is the UQ Lovers vs White Lantern. Its one win each this season for this matchup, and recent form for both has been uneven. White Lantern though forced a 15-15 draw last week against the mighty Poachers, so may be looking tighter as exams approach for the students.
>Our Tips: Poachers for the win, Dyspnoeics for the epic, and White Lantern to surprise us.
So we’re into Round 12 … gee, is it just us or has the season done well to avoid the mid-season drag? I think partly it’s the great work of the BUML Organising Committee, who remain nearly invisible behind the scenes. Things keep ticking along neatly. For those of us who’ve been around a few blocks, we’re enjoying the luxury.
There’s four games left of the regular season before Finals time, so almost every team is desperate (but only Griffith FC seem to be dateless).
**Division 2: Larry
>>Baby Chimis vs Disc-Iples – Annerley 3A
>>Bermuda Triangle vs Heroes – Easts 2
>>What the Huck vs Discheads – Easts 3
>>Tsunami vs Agent Orange – Gap 1
Let’s look at this division as a whole, because there’s been a few surprises in recent weeks that could rock the boat. The stand-out of course has been the unfancied Chimis rolling Agent Orange last week, 14-12. No doubt the red resurgence was sparked by a bit of off-hand smack-talk over at the Heroes Blog. The Babies will be looking for a second in a row against fellow cellar dwellars the Disc-Iples. Both teams won’t be making the Finals this season, but have plenty of spoiler potential. Bermuda of course are all set for the Finals, as are Tsunami and What the Huck?, but all three will be keen to keep winning. Bermuda will consider the Heroes easy meat, but the Heroes need to get at least three more wins to have a chance into the Semis, and so will be hucking long on Monday. The ladder is tight though, with third placed What the Huck? taking on the fourth placed Discheads, who remain a chance to drop with a tough draw to finish the season. The Huckers drew with Tsunami last week to set up some tasty future battles, but the big waves will feel like they can merely ripple this week against Agent Orange.
>Our Tips: Baby Chimis on form, Bermuda on dominance, What the Huck? on speed, and Tsunami on endurance.
**Division 3: Moe
>>Apostles vs Slipped Discs – Annerley 5A
>>Griffith Go-Go’s vs Yeast – Annerley 5B
>>Mellow Yellow vs QUTies – Griffith 1
>>Griffith Oh Yeahs vs Griffith FC – Griffith 2
Things are very very interesting in Division 3. Being the ‘lowest’ division, some would expect these teams to also be slightly less organised than the crack military units you find further up the BUML tree. Such observers of course are demonstrating their complete misunderstanding of Ultimate. In reality, some teams have their shit together, and some don’t, and that’s the competition. The easy game to pick this week is first vs eighth – the Griffith Go-Go’s, who’re now getting used to the idea of JdR leaving and probably now playing better, should defeat the Yeast, who remain valiant in their inaugural season. One would also think the Griffith Oh Yeahs should have the experience to take care of Griffith FC, but the work of each team varies a lot from week to week, and with the right combo on the grass (like the one that scared the pants off the Apostles last Monday) they may get up. The Oh Yeahs certainly play better at home. Then things get quite interesting. After swinging the pink at every team in the competition, the Apostles come through their three games in a row against Griffith teams (two losses and then a tight win over FC) looking vulnerable. The Slipped Discs meanwhile have continued to improve through the season, culminating in last Monday’s surprise 15-6 demolition of Mellow Yellow. The Brisbane Beer Club must be looking very closely at its continue sponsorship of the Yellows, who apparently have considered selling the fridge and flying veteran Eireann back for the remainder of the season. MY have an opportunity this week against the QUTies, but the students might have their shit together this week after only scrapping together seven players 40 minutes late last week.
>Our Tips: Griffith Go-Go’s are too good, the Oh Yeahs will pride themselves through, the Apostles will right the ship, and Mellow Yellow will work it out.
**Division 1: Curly
>>The Ghost Who Walks vs Poachers – Annerley 3B
>>Dyspnoeics vs Drop Bears – Easts 1
>>UQ Lovers vs White Lantern – Gap 2
Division one is now mostly sorted out, with all teams having played themselves twice, we know who's got form over whom, and who is Gref's beotch and all that. But there’s some vagarities in the draw, some kinks to ease out, and some adjustments to the top four that still need to occur before the finals hit. The Poachers have smashed the Greater Western Walkers twice previously, and will do so again, keeping in mind that they’re currently second on goal difference and the sour taste of last week’s draw. They Dyspnoeics notoriously play badly during State of Origin time, but they’ve won some big games recently – every game in fact since their 13-13 draw with the Drop Bears just over a month ago. So maybe this game will be tigher than some think. The big battle in Division 1 this week (the one we would televise, if we could – at least because one of these teams has the most handsome lads on the scene), is the UQ Lovers vs White Lantern. Its one win each this season for this matchup, and recent form for both has been uneven. White Lantern though forced a 15-15 draw last week against the mighty Poachers, so may be looking tighter as exams approach for the students.
>Our Tips: Poachers for the win, Dyspnoeics for the epic, and White Lantern to surprise us.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
BPL Logo Competition - From the Judges
This morning we received an important press release from one of the spin doctors over at BPL Tower, announcing that the options for the new Brisbane Premier League logo have been unleashed on an unsuspecting public.
You may wish to make like a democrat and get on over there and vote.
Before you go though, we've brought in three of our best style-merchants to review the designs and tell you who to vote for. Yes, never forget that we here at the Brisbane Ultimate Blog are your rightful overlords and all that.
Our judges today are:
- Jeannie Janelloquoi - designer and owner of Woman Wonder Ultimate Boutique
- Baz Friendly - television personality and presenter of 'Behind the BPL 2: Look Behind You!'
- Luke in a Cookie Monster Outfit - young lad about town with a thing for blue fur
BUB: Ok groovers, what do you think about design number 1?
JJ: Well darling I don't know who did it, but they did a good job. I love the maroon and yellow. Four stars.
Baz: It says Ultimate and has a frisbee on it, plus Mount Coot-tha and the river.
Luke: Mmm, me likey! Yum yum yum.
JJ: Perfectly acceptable.
BUB: And design number 2?
JJ: Well darling its very dynamic - the rays of sunlight are like the dawn of tomorrow and a wonderful new future for this BPL thing. Four stars.
Baz: Looks like a beer logo. This is a good thing.
Luke: Delicious! Yum yum yum.
BUB: And what about the one behind door number 3?
JJ: Well darling its so masculine! It makes me want to take my clothes off. Five.
Baz: Its kinda quirky, although the implicit dissing of the smooth-faced Heroes Club may be a problem.
Luke: Two kinds of icing! Yum yum yum.
JJ: I'm naked for this design, darling.
BUB: Okey dokey. Let's keep moving. Design number 4?
JJ: Darling, all I see is an evil grin. It scares me, and I like it.
Baz: I'm a bit meh on this one. Needs some cowbell.
Luke: Look at what I can do with these goggley eyes! Woooo wwow wowooo! Me hungry now.
BUB: Number 5?
Luke: Nothing rhymes with orange.
JJ: Darling, I'm all for orange. Let me tell you about how I got a special 'slamming' in the penthouse over the weekend with the ...
Baz: Needs more frisbee. This could be for a soccer thing.
BUB: And finally, number 6.
JJ: Darling, its marvellously abstract.
Luke: Me hungry for fish.
Baz: I like the concept, but it needs a bit of work yet. And where are the bubbles?
BUB: So gang, could I ask for your decisions?
JJ: Darling, its very very difficult. Clearly people have tried very hard, and I never want to dispirit someone I may be sleeping with one day. I don't like floppy floppy, after all. But if you backed me into a corner and waved a strapon in front of me to get a decision, I'd go with logo 3, as I love a good tickling.
Baz: Its quite tough - there's some good stuff there. They're all good, but I think logo 1 is the steadiest and likely to stand the test of time.
Luke: Give me cookie and I tell you.
BUB: I don't have a cookie.
Luke: No cookie! What? Why did me waste time coming here, when me could be out looking for cookie! Surely a lad who's spent sooo much time looking at silly logos, and listening to boogie-bums here ramble on, would be deserving of just one, small, cookie?
BUB: I don't have a cookie. You can have a frisbee.
Luke: Me settle and eat frisbee and vote for logo 2.
BUB: Thanks everyone.
You may wish to make like a democrat and get on over there and vote.
Before you go though, we've brought in three of our best style-merchants to review the designs and tell you who to vote for. Yes, never forget that we here at the Brisbane Ultimate Blog are your rightful overlords and all that.
Our judges today are:
- Jeannie Janelloquoi - designer and owner of Woman Wonder Ultimate Boutique
- Baz Friendly - television personality and presenter of 'Behind the BPL 2: Look Behind You!'
- Luke in a Cookie Monster Outfit - young lad about town with a thing for blue fur
BUB: Ok groovers, what do you think about design number 1?
JJ: Well darling I don't know who did it, but they did a good job. I love the maroon and yellow. Four stars.
Baz: It says Ultimate and has a frisbee on it, plus Mount Coot-tha and the river.
Luke: Mmm, me likey! Yum yum yum.
JJ: Perfectly acceptable.
BUB: And design number 2?
JJ: Well darling its very dynamic - the rays of sunlight are like the dawn of tomorrow and a wonderful new future for this BPL thing. Four stars.
Baz: Looks like a beer logo. This is a good thing.
Luke: Delicious! Yum yum yum.
BUB: And what about the one behind door number 3?
JJ: Well darling its so masculine! It makes me want to take my clothes off. Five.
Baz: Its kinda quirky, although the implicit dissing of the smooth-faced Heroes Club may be a problem.
Luke: Two kinds of icing! Yum yum yum.
JJ: I'm naked for this design, darling.
BUB: Okey dokey. Let's keep moving. Design number 4?
JJ: Darling, all I see is an evil grin. It scares me, and I like it.
Baz: I'm a bit meh on this one. Needs some cowbell.
Luke: Look at what I can do with these goggley eyes! Woooo wwow wowooo! Me hungry now.
BUB: Number 5?
Luke: Nothing rhymes with orange.
JJ: Darling, I'm all for orange. Let me tell you about how I got a special 'slamming' in the penthouse over the weekend with the ...
Baz: Needs more frisbee. This could be for a soccer thing.
BUB: And finally, number 6.
JJ: Darling, its marvellously abstract.
Luke: Me hungry for fish.
Baz: I like the concept, but it needs a bit of work yet. And where are the bubbles?
BUB: So gang, could I ask for your decisions?
JJ: Darling, its very very difficult. Clearly people have tried very hard, and I never want to dispirit someone I may be sleeping with one day. I don't like floppy floppy, after all. But if you backed me into a corner and waved a strapon in front of me to get a decision, I'd go with logo 3, as I love a good tickling.
Baz: Its quite tough - there's some good stuff there. They're all good, but I think logo 1 is the steadiest and likely to stand the test of time.
Luke: Give me cookie and I tell you.
BUB: I don't have a cookie.
Luke: No cookie! What? Why did me waste time coming here, when me could be out looking for cookie! Surely a lad who's spent sooo much time looking at silly logos, and listening to boogie-bums here ramble on, would be deserving of just one, small, cookie?
BUB: I don't have a cookie. You can have a frisbee.
Luke: Me settle and eat frisbee and vote for logo 2.
BUB: Thanks everyone.
Friday, May 18, 2012
BUML 2012-1: Round 11 – Someone’s stolen my spyglass!
As we all know in the hyper-sensitive uber-democratic and eager-for-approval world of Ultimate, one offhand and badly typed comment made online is easily extrapolated into an important position on a major issue, and a handful of these made over a long period of time can occasionally be taken as evidence of a ubiquitous view. It can be useful to recognise criticism and respond to it. But one must be cautious about reacting to noisy wingnuts or those who just like to stir the pot. Except when it suits one’s own purposes of course, in which case we’ll be taking the advice of at least one of our dear readers, and keeping it shorter this week (at least, after this intro).
**Division 1 – The Naughty Division
>>White Lantern vs Poachers – Annerley 3B
Poachers had first loss of the season last week. May be vulnerable. White Lantern love it when we tip against them, so let’s do them another favour.
>Our Tip: Poachers by 2.
>>Dyspnoeics vs UQ Lovers – Easts 1
Half of Dyspnoeics will have been well distracted by the release of Diablo3 this week. Half of the UQ Lovers also. We’re tipping the D’s because they’re now in their 11th game straight at Easts 1, while UQ have been all about the billie-o, so the Blue’s gamers at least know the quickest way to get there from home. That burning sensation in your groin? You should stop to pee at least once during your 18 hour stretch.
>Our Tip: Dyspnoeics by 2.
>>Drop Bears vs The Ghost Who Walks – Gap 2
The Bears are adrift in fifth place, six points out of the finals, so will be focusing on fun and next season (proposed dates for next season were announced to Captains a few days ago, ask them if you’re interested). After last week, we won’t be tipping the Ghost again this season … or next!
>Our Tip: Drop Bears by 5.
**Division 2 – The Nice Division
>>Tsunami vs Discheads – Annerley 3A
Tsunami currently sit equal second on the ladder, Discheads are a little adrift at fourth. Both teams want wins to solidify their chances going into the finals in a few weeks time.
>Our Tip: Tsunami by 4.
>>Bermuda Triangle vs Disc-iples – Easts 2
An opportunity for BT to further improve their goal difference. The Disc-iples will likely bring cookies.
>Our Tip: Bermuda by 10.
>>What the Huck? vs Heroes – Easts 3
Ok, so we’ve been a bit nonchalant so far in these previews, but we’ve just been saving our excitement for this game. Heroes are desperate to get a win here – they’re running out of chances to make the finals. The Huckers meanwhile will be hurting after a five point loss to Bermuda last week. So, a big game.
>Our Tip: Heroes by 1.
>>Baby Chimis vs Agent Orange – Gap 1
Agent Orange are also on their tenth or eleventh game on Gap 1, so you’d think they’d know every blade of grass … if only they could field a consistent lineup. However, the opportunity to defeat cellar-dwellers the Chimis will bring our the full orange.
>Our Tip: Agent Orange by 4.
**Division 3 – The Neutral Division
>>Mellow Yellow vs Slipped Discs – Annerley 5A
This are getting confusing in Div3, as last week was somewhat unexpected for both these teams. The previously mighty Mellow Yellow lost heavily to the still-rampant Go-Go’s, while the previously variable Slipped Discs easily accounted for the unpredictable QUTies.
>Our Tip: Mellow Yellow by 4.
>>Griffith Oh Yeahs vs Yeast – Annerley 5B
Speaking of confusion, the Oh Yeahs easily accounted for former top team the Apostles, while the Yeast went hard before going down to Griffith FC. The Oh Yeahs do have to travel away from Griffith, but they're getting used to it as they do it every second or third week or so - sharing and all that.
>Our Tip: Oh Yeahs by 4.
>>Apostles vs Griffith FC – Griffith 1
Over at Apostles HQ, the red dartboard should be covered in bulletholes … except the Apostles seem to have lost their previously perfect aim the last couple of weeks, which have seen defeats by the Go-Go’s and the Oh Yeahs. So Marcus “the Rock” L will be firing up his squad this week and seeking vengeance upon the third Griffith team – Griffith FC; who are on a high after a win last week and are aiming to have the full compliment on boards. And a tip for Griffith field users who like a good warmup - the University is turning the lights on at about 6.30pm now, presumably so that the soccer players can safely walk across the Ultimate field.
>Our Tip: GFC by 2.
>>Griffith Go-Go’s vs QUTies – Griffith 2
The Go-Go’s are on a huge high at the moment. Top of the table, and having won convincingly against bogie team Mellow Yellow last week, and without their mentor JdR who decided rainy Melbourne and flights with a small child were a better option last week. The QUTies pushed the original reds very hard last time though, and remain practically impossible to predict.
>Our Tip: Go-Go’s by 4.
See you next week!
**Division 1 – The Naughty Division
>>White Lantern vs Poachers – Annerley 3B
Poachers had first loss of the season last week. May be vulnerable. White Lantern love it when we tip against them, so let’s do them another favour.
>Our Tip: Poachers by 2.
>>Dyspnoeics vs UQ Lovers – Easts 1
Half of Dyspnoeics will have been well distracted by the release of Diablo3 this week. Half of the UQ Lovers also. We’re tipping the D’s because they’re now in their 11th game straight at Easts 1, while UQ have been all about the billie-o, so the Blue’s gamers at least know the quickest way to get there from home. That burning sensation in your groin? You should stop to pee at least once during your 18 hour stretch.
>Our Tip: Dyspnoeics by 2.
>>Drop Bears vs The Ghost Who Walks – Gap 2
The Bears are adrift in fifth place, six points out of the finals, so will be focusing on fun and next season (proposed dates for next season were announced to Captains a few days ago, ask them if you’re interested). After last week, we won’t be tipping the Ghost again this season … or next!
>Our Tip: Drop Bears by 5.
**Division 2 – The Nice Division
>>Tsunami vs Discheads – Annerley 3A
Tsunami currently sit equal second on the ladder, Discheads are a little adrift at fourth. Both teams want wins to solidify their chances going into the finals in a few weeks time.
>Our Tip: Tsunami by 4.
>>Bermuda Triangle vs Disc-iples – Easts 2
An opportunity for BT to further improve their goal difference. The Disc-iples will likely bring cookies.
>Our Tip: Bermuda by 10.
>>What the Huck? vs Heroes – Easts 3
Ok, so we’ve been a bit nonchalant so far in these previews, but we’ve just been saving our excitement for this game. Heroes are desperate to get a win here – they’re running out of chances to make the finals. The Huckers meanwhile will be hurting after a five point loss to Bermuda last week. So, a big game.
>Our Tip: Heroes by 1.
>>Baby Chimis vs Agent Orange – Gap 1
Agent Orange are also on their tenth or eleventh game on Gap 1, so you’d think they’d know every blade of grass … if only they could field a consistent lineup. However, the opportunity to defeat cellar-dwellers the Chimis will bring our the full orange.
>Our Tip: Agent Orange by 4.
**Division 3 – The Neutral Division
>>Mellow Yellow vs Slipped Discs – Annerley 5A
This are getting confusing in Div3, as last week was somewhat unexpected for both these teams. The previously mighty Mellow Yellow lost heavily to the still-rampant Go-Go’s, while the previously variable Slipped Discs easily accounted for the unpredictable QUTies.
>Our Tip: Mellow Yellow by 4.
>>Griffith Oh Yeahs vs Yeast – Annerley 5B
Speaking of confusion, the Oh Yeahs easily accounted for former top team the Apostles, while the Yeast went hard before going down to Griffith FC. The Oh Yeahs do have to travel away from Griffith, but they're getting used to it as they do it every second or third week or so - sharing and all that.
>Our Tip: Oh Yeahs by 4.
>>Apostles vs Griffith FC – Griffith 1
Over at Apostles HQ, the red dartboard should be covered in bulletholes … except the Apostles seem to have lost their previously perfect aim the last couple of weeks, which have seen defeats by the Go-Go’s and the Oh Yeahs. So Marcus “the Rock” L will be firing up his squad this week and seeking vengeance upon the third Griffith team – Griffith FC; who are on a high after a win last week and are aiming to have the full compliment on boards. And a tip for Griffith field users who like a good warmup - the University is turning the lights on at about 6.30pm now, presumably so that the soccer players can safely walk across the Ultimate field.
>Our Tip: GFC by 2.
>>Griffith Go-Go’s vs QUTies – Griffith 2
The Go-Go’s are on a huge high at the moment. Top of the table, and having won convincingly against bogie team Mellow Yellow last week, and without their mentor JdR who decided rainy Melbourne and flights with a small child were a better option last week. The QUTies pushed the original reds very hard last time though, and remain practically impossible to predict.
>Our Tip: Go-Go’s by 4.
See you next week!
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Future of BPL - Proposal from a Distance
Over at the BPL Blog is a discussion about recruiting, retaining and growing the BPL. We were going to comment, but heck, we've got our own blog to fill up!
Upstairs here at the stately Brisbane Ultimate Blog mansion, we haven't been able to play BPL for some time, but we still love it dearly. Plus, well, we've seen a lot of change in Ultimate leagues over a decade of playing here and there, and given it a lot of thought over the years, and maybe there's some benefit in offering thoughts 'from a distance', so here's our suggestion.
For those thinking about this issue, two thoughts first.
1) There's a point of view that most players in the BPL are comfortable. They get good games against a reasonable diversity of teams each week. So why change? Those who want change need to articulate clearly why.
2) After that, there needs to be a vision or a description of where to go to, which helps you to work out what changes (particularly sacrifices) may need to be made to get there.
Here's our answer to these points.
I think the case for change is "If you want Open Ultimate in Brisbane to be better, if you want the sport and competition to be respected within the sport and in the wider community, then BPL must grow." If the League stays the same size, top players will continue to gravitate towards winning teams, making BPL dull and predictable. Firestorm will not win Nationals while the base of elite Open Ultimate in Brisbane is the size it is. There will not be strong teams from Brisbane going to tournaments worldwide until there is growth. And frankly, a six or seven team league playing at the same venue every night looks like a social touch football competition.
The Vision I think needs to be "two divisions". Two divisions allows BPL to cater to its two goals - enabling elite Ultimate and providing a place for guys to play Ultimate against each other in Brisbane. Two divisions provides space and a pathway for new players and teams to enter, and then progress (and possibly for elite players to step down a division, and therefore be retained rather than retired).
The sacrifice to get there would be that next season have a Division 1 of only four teams with limited rosters. The remaining teams and players form Division 2. There is certainly plenty of enthusiasm for recruitment within BPL - we all love to bring more people to our great sport - this structural measure provides the space needed for growth.
As a result, in the space July-November, there would be two short seasons. A short season also allows for a lower season fee (yes, its about the same price per week, but the entry cost is half - much easier for a new player to give it a go). 2013 may also plan for three seasons, depending on how growth is going.
Keen players will beg/borrow/steal to get onto those four Div 1 teams, and keen Div 1 Captains will want the best and know they can pick and choose a bit. Two seasons allow this to happen twice. There's some tight and firm deadlines involved in sorting rosters relatively early.
The quality and quantity of play in Div 2 is directly up to the recruitment and enthusiasm of the players who aren't picked for Div 1. There is a roster minimum of say eight, but no maximum. New players can join rosters at any time. If Div 2 starts with a three team League, or some teams routinely field five or six players, so be it - this is how BPL started and eventually prospered, after all.
Its more likely you'll see four teams anyway. With the more rigid and self-interested 'elite Clubs' out of the way and up in Div 1, the players of Div 2 will be more flexible in recruiting new players and taking care of them in a less intense environment, and moving amongst teams to maximise their enjoyment (and for some, chances of moving into a Div 1 team next season).
The second half of the year is the time to do this, with the momentum of a completed season rather than a Christmas break, and without the distraction of Firestorm and Nationals campaigns. Attempting radical change in the BPL at the start of a year is far less practical.
Two divisions, starting next season, sets things up for Div 2 to grow organically (individual player by individual player). Top players in Div 1 are also motivated to keep recruiting people - but to the League rather than to their Club (at the moment, a lot of potential recruitment of "mates" is hamstrung by not being able to offer them a place on a full and competitive team). Div 1 meanwhile grows structurally over time - as Div 2 gets to a certain size, an extra team may be added to Div 1, made up mostly of 'the best players of Div 2', rather than a Div 2 team being promoted.
Thanks for reading this 2c. Be brave!
Upstairs here at the stately Brisbane Ultimate Blog mansion, we haven't been able to play BPL for some time, but we still love it dearly. Plus, well, we've seen a lot of change in Ultimate leagues over a decade of playing here and there, and given it a lot of thought over the years, and maybe there's some benefit in offering thoughts 'from a distance', so here's our suggestion.
For those thinking about this issue, two thoughts first.
1) There's a point of view that most players in the BPL are comfortable. They get good games against a reasonable diversity of teams each week. So why change? Those who want change need to articulate clearly why.
2) After that, there needs to be a vision or a description of where to go to, which helps you to work out what changes (particularly sacrifices) may need to be made to get there.
Here's our answer to these points.
I think the case for change is "If you want Open Ultimate in Brisbane to be better, if you want the sport and competition to be respected within the sport and in the wider community, then BPL must grow." If the League stays the same size, top players will continue to gravitate towards winning teams, making BPL dull and predictable. Firestorm will not win Nationals while the base of elite Open Ultimate in Brisbane is the size it is. There will not be strong teams from Brisbane going to tournaments worldwide until there is growth. And frankly, a six or seven team league playing at the same venue every night looks like a social touch football competition.
The Vision I think needs to be "two divisions". Two divisions allows BPL to cater to its two goals - enabling elite Ultimate and providing a place for guys to play Ultimate against each other in Brisbane. Two divisions provides space and a pathway for new players and teams to enter, and then progress (and possibly for elite players to step down a division, and therefore be retained rather than retired).
The sacrifice to get there would be that next season have a Division 1 of only four teams with limited rosters. The remaining teams and players form Division 2. There is certainly plenty of enthusiasm for recruitment within BPL - we all love to bring more people to our great sport - this structural measure provides the space needed for growth.
As a result, in the space July-November, there would be two short seasons. A short season also allows for a lower season fee (yes, its about the same price per week, but the entry cost is half - much easier for a new player to give it a go). 2013 may also plan for three seasons, depending on how growth is going.
Keen players will beg/borrow/steal to get onto those four Div 1 teams, and keen Div 1 Captains will want the best and know they can pick and choose a bit. Two seasons allow this to happen twice. There's some tight and firm deadlines involved in sorting rosters relatively early.
The quality and quantity of play in Div 2 is directly up to the recruitment and enthusiasm of the players who aren't picked for Div 1. There is a roster minimum of say eight, but no maximum. New players can join rosters at any time. If Div 2 starts with a three team League, or some teams routinely field five or six players, so be it - this is how BPL started and eventually prospered, after all.
Its more likely you'll see four teams anyway. With the more rigid and self-interested 'elite Clubs' out of the way and up in Div 1, the players of Div 2 will be more flexible in recruiting new players and taking care of them in a less intense environment, and moving amongst teams to maximise their enjoyment (and for some, chances of moving into a Div 1 team next season).
The second half of the year is the time to do this, with the momentum of a completed season rather than a Christmas break, and without the distraction of Firestorm and Nationals campaigns. Attempting radical change in the BPL at the start of a year is far less practical.
Two divisions, starting next season, sets things up for Div 2 to grow organically (individual player by individual player). Top players in Div 1 are also motivated to keep recruiting people - but to the League rather than to their Club (at the moment, a lot of potential recruitment of "mates" is hamstrung by not being able to offer them a place on a full and competitive team). Div 1 meanwhile grows structurally over time - as Div 2 gets to a certain size, an extra team may be added to Div 1, made up mostly of 'the best players of Div 2', rather than a Div 2 team being promoted.
Thanks for reading this 2c. Be brave!
Thursday, May 10, 2012
BUML2012-2: Round 10: Say Seaweed!
All is in flux and the centre cannot hold at the moment here at the stately Brisbane Ultimate Blog mansion, and indeed, the Cloister Bell is ringing, meaning its time to man the battle stations (or at least, change the toilet paper roll). But anyway, here’s some chat about next Monday’s BUML games.
**Division 2 – State of Decay
>>What the Huck? vs Bermuda Triangle – Easts 3
Asgard itself will ROCK as the immovable force that is the undefeated Bermuda Triangle takes on the unstoppable object that is the-once-defeated What the Huck?! Yes, it’s a top of Division 2 CLASH OF THE TITANS. MARVEL at TJ’s inspirational speeches. AWE at the might of Helen McD. Run in TERROR from the Webb brothers. Face it TRUE BELIEVERS, this one will have it ALL.
>Our Tip: Bermuda by 4.
>>Heroes vs Disc-Iples – Annerley 5B
The Heroes were soundly defeated by their sister-team Agent Orange last week, after soundly defeating their other sister-team Discheads the week before. So they clearly go both ways. But don’t expect them to cuddle afterwards – the Heroes haven’t had a close match for months. Neither has the Disc-Iples really, which is a pity, as after talking to their brother-team the Apostles, we’ve discovered that the Iples are likely looking for a slow hand, a lover’s touch, someone who will spend some time, not come and go in a heated rush. Hard to pick who’ll win, but the margin will be by 7.
>Our Tip: One of these teams by 7.
>>Tsunami vs Baby Chimis – Easts 2
Did you see those stories this week about the stuff from the Japanese tsunami last year starting to wash up on the west coast of Canada? The same coast that was once the stomping ground of Nick, Jessie and Relic of The Beachcombers (probably the best Canadian TV show ever to be shown in Australia, even better than the X-Files or Wayne and Shuster). Anyway, The Beachcombers often featured a very slow sort of race between Relic’s speedboat and Nick’s more stately tug, to round up stray logs. If that isn’t a metaphor for this game between Tsunami and the Baby Chimis, I don’t know what is.
>Our Tip: Tsunami by 3.
>>Discheads vs Agent Orange – Gap 1
Ok, so two weeks back the Heroes beat Discheads, then last week Agent Orange beat the Heroes, so you’d expect Agent Orange to beat the Discheads, wouldn’t you? The score from their game back in Round 4 never did get put up on the official BUML website by the official BUML webmaster, did it? Conspiracy? Note also the Agents seem to be making a late season run to be the one HUC team to make it into a Semi Final.
>Our Tip: Agent Orange by 1
**Division 3 – Warrior's Gate
>>Slipped Discs vs QUTies – Annerley 5A
These two teams appear to be the most unpredictable in Division 3. The unpredictable and unfancied slippery Petes have won two in a row to be just outside Semi Final contention. Meanwhile, the QUTies sit in fourth position despite being blown off the field 16-5 by the Griffith Financial Crisis, only a week after rolling the Yeast 17-4. The QUTies won the previous outing 14-10, so we’re going with them.
>Our Tip: QUTies by 4.
>>Mellow Yellow vs Griffith Go-Go’s – Annerley 3B
A game so big, so famous, so dazzling in prospect, they had to move it from Annerley Field 5 where Division 3 has languished for much of the season, over to Field 3, bumping the anticipated Heroes/Iples yawnfest. Yep, this one will be better to watch than most Division 2 games, even with Go-Go playmaker and senior massive-ego JdR’s absence interstate. What is it with that guy? Is he scared of Rolo? Rumours of some backroom communications between teams looking for weaknesses in opponents abound, reminding us all that Ultimate isn’t a matter of life and death, its more important than that! MY are the only team to have defeated the otherwise rampant Go-Go’s this season, who may have expended their last drops of thrust defeating the Apostles and the Oh Yeahs in previous weeks … the two teams the Mellows played also. Should be good.
>Our Tip: Mellow Yellow by 1.
>>Apostles vs Oh Yeahs – Griffith 1
The Oh Yeahs have had an amazing season that has included three one point losses, and two other losses by less than 3 points. They’re clearly in it, just can’t win it. Is it their youth? Something to do with their sexual prowess (or lack thereof?). Brad and Gus are getting angry about this, and have started ordering onion rings at the Club meetings at the Logan Road McDonalds after games on Monday nights. Meanwhile, the Apostles had their first loss in a long time against the Go-Go’s last week, and will be looking to add fluoro pink wristbands, waistbands and bootiebands to their headbands before taking to the field on Monday night.
>Our Tip: Apostles by 1.
>>Griffith FC vs Yeast – Griffith 2
The Yeast return to the Nathan field, as do the Griffith FC, who are learning to rely less and less on the unrealiable Moto and Jordiii (three I’s). There’s bragging rights here as 7th plays 8th.
>Our Tip: GFC by 3.
**Division 1 – Full Circle
>>UQ Lovers vs Drop Bears – Annerley 3A
A few commentors have noticed the lack of Jack “Goose” Allan here on the BUB lately. Good noticing. We understand this is because he’s been busy channelling his inner Freddie Mercury and has spent the last month up to the ‘stache in coke and rum. It won’t work. Drop Bears meanwhile have been hitting the reggae hard in the lead up to this game. Most of the attention will be on the Div 3 game next to them, because everyone loves Daves.
>Our Tip: Lovers by 2.
>>White Lantern vs The Ghost Who Walks – Gap 2.
White, the colour of purity and virginity, against purple, the colour of sexual desperation and perversion. Well, that’s all you need to know, really, isn’t it?
>Our Tip: Ghost Who Walks by 2.
>>Dyspnoeics vs Poachers – Easts 1
This is the game we had no choice but to preview last. Why? Well, this way Mansauce, Andy, Adilia and DanB have to read the whole preview before they can see that yes, we have mentioned them again. Well done, go to matron and ask for another bit of tuck. Oh yeah, this is another top of the table clash, and the Poachers won last time 15-12.
>Our Tip: Dyspnoeics by 2.
**Division 2 – State of Decay
>>What the Huck? vs Bermuda Triangle – Easts 3
Asgard itself will ROCK as the immovable force that is the undefeated Bermuda Triangle takes on the unstoppable object that is the-once-defeated What the Huck?! Yes, it’s a top of Division 2 CLASH OF THE TITANS. MARVEL at TJ’s inspirational speeches. AWE at the might of Helen McD. Run in TERROR from the Webb brothers. Face it TRUE BELIEVERS, this one will have it ALL.
>Our Tip: Bermuda by 4.
>>Heroes vs Disc-Iples – Annerley 5B
The Heroes were soundly defeated by their sister-team Agent Orange last week, after soundly defeating their other sister-team Discheads the week before. So they clearly go both ways. But don’t expect them to cuddle afterwards – the Heroes haven’t had a close match for months. Neither has the Disc-Iples really, which is a pity, as after talking to their brother-team the Apostles, we’ve discovered that the Iples are likely looking for a slow hand, a lover’s touch, someone who will spend some time, not come and go in a heated rush. Hard to pick who’ll win, but the margin will be by 7.
>Our Tip: One of these teams by 7.
>>Tsunami vs Baby Chimis – Easts 2
Did you see those stories this week about the stuff from the Japanese tsunami last year starting to wash up on the west coast of Canada? The same coast that was once the stomping ground of Nick, Jessie and Relic of The Beachcombers (probably the best Canadian TV show ever to be shown in Australia, even better than the X-Files or Wayne and Shuster). Anyway, The Beachcombers often featured a very slow sort of race between Relic’s speedboat and Nick’s more stately tug, to round up stray logs. If that isn’t a metaphor for this game between Tsunami and the Baby Chimis, I don’t know what is.
>Our Tip: Tsunami by 3.
>>Discheads vs Agent Orange – Gap 1
Ok, so two weeks back the Heroes beat Discheads, then last week Agent Orange beat the Heroes, so you’d expect Agent Orange to beat the Discheads, wouldn’t you? The score from their game back in Round 4 never did get put up on the official BUML website by the official BUML webmaster, did it? Conspiracy? Note also the Agents seem to be making a late season run to be the one HUC team to make it into a Semi Final.
>Our Tip: Agent Orange by 1
**Division 3 – Warrior's Gate
>>Slipped Discs vs QUTies – Annerley 5A
These two teams appear to be the most unpredictable in Division 3. The unpredictable and unfancied slippery Petes have won two in a row to be just outside Semi Final contention. Meanwhile, the QUTies sit in fourth position despite being blown off the field 16-5 by the Griffith Financial Crisis, only a week after rolling the Yeast 17-4. The QUTies won the previous outing 14-10, so we’re going with them.
>Our Tip: QUTies by 4.
>>Mellow Yellow vs Griffith Go-Go’s – Annerley 3B
A game so big, so famous, so dazzling in prospect, they had to move it from Annerley Field 5 where Division 3 has languished for much of the season, over to Field 3, bumping the anticipated Heroes/Iples yawnfest. Yep, this one will be better to watch than most Division 2 games, even with Go-Go playmaker and senior massive-ego JdR’s absence interstate. What is it with that guy? Is he scared of Rolo? Rumours of some backroom communications between teams looking for weaknesses in opponents abound, reminding us all that Ultimate isn’t a matter of life and death, its more important than that! MY are the only team to have defeated the otherwise rampant Go-Go’s this season, who may have expended their last drops of thrust defeating the Apostles and the Oh Yeahs in previous weeks … the two teams the Mellows played also. Should be good.
>Our Tip: Mellow Yellow by 1.
>>Apostles vs Oh Yeahs – Griffith 1
The Oh Yeahs have had an amazing season that has included three one point losses, and two other losses by less than 3 points. They’re clearly in it, just can’t win it. Is it their youth? Something to do with their sexual prowess (or lack thereof?). Brad and Gus are getting angry about this, and have started ordering onion rings at the Club meetings at the Logan Road McDonalds after games on Monday nights. Meanwhile, the Apostles had their first loss in a long time against the Go-Go’s last week, and will be looking to add fluoro pink wristbands, waistbands and bootiebands to their headbands before taking to the field on Monday night.
>Our Tip: Apostles by 1.
>>Griffith FC vs Yeast – Griffith 2
The Yeast return to the Nathan field, as do the Griffith FC, who are learning to rely less and less on the unrealiable Moto and Jordiii (three I’s). There’s bragging rights here as 7th plays 8th.
>Our Tip: GFC by 3.
**Division 1 – Full Circle
>>UQ Lovers vs Drop Bears – Annerley 3A
A few commentors have noticed the lack of Jack “Goose” Allan here on the BUB lately. Good noticing. We understand this is because he’s been busy channelling his inner Freddie Mercury and has spent the last month up to the ‘stache in coke and rum. It won’t work. Drop Bears meanwhile have been hitting the reggae hard in the lead up to this game. Most of the attention will be on the Div 3 game next to them, because everyone loves Daves.
>Our Tip: Lovers by 2.
>>White Lantern vs The Ghost Who Walks – Gap 2.
White, the colour of purity and virginity, against purple, the colour of sexual desperation and perversion. Well, that’s all you need to know, really, isn’t it?
>Our Tip: Ghost Who Walks by 2.
>>Dyspnoeics vs Poachers – Easts 1
This is the game we had no choice but to preview last. Why? Well, this way Mansauce, Andy, Adilia and DanB have to read the whole preview before they can see that yes, we have mentioned them again. Well done, go to matron and ask for another bit of tuck. Oh yeah, this is another top of the table clash, and the Poachers won last time 15-12.
>Our Tip: Dyspnoeics by 2.
Friday, May 04, 2012
HUCK SMASH!
RRRRAAAAARGHH!
HUCK ANGRY THAT HUCK NOT GET A MENTION IN BUML PREVIEW POST!
HUCK STAR OF HIS MOVIE AND MOST IMPORTANT!
HUCK ALSO MASCOT OF BEST ULTIMATE CLUB IN BRISBANE! GREEN TOPS COLOUR!
HUCK DESTROY STATELY BRISBANE ULTIMATE BLOG MANSION!!
HUCK NOTICE RUDE COMMENTS COMPARING JACK TO ELMO AND CARL TO BANANA!!!
HUCK SMASH 'FRUITY' IF HULK CATCH HIM!!!!
Huck like Frisbees though. And beans.
HUCK ANGRY THAT HUCK NOT GET A MENTION IN BUML PREVIEW POST!
HUCK STAR OF HIS MOVIE AND MOST IMPORTANT!
HUCK ALSO MASCOT OF BEST ULTIMATE CLUB IN BRISBANE! GREEN TOPS COLOUR!
HUCK DESTROY STATELY BRISBANE ULTIMATE BLOG MANSION!!
HUCK NOTICE RUDE COMMENTS COMPARING JACK TO ELMO AND CARL TO BANANA!!!
HUCK SMASH 'FRUITY' IF HULK CATCH HIM!!!!
Huck like Frisbees though. And beans.
Wednesday, May 02, 2012
BUML2012-1 Round 9: Andy, Open the BUML-Hatch!
Some astute readers were outside the stately Brisbane Ultimate Blog mansion last week, with their pitchforks and burning torches and placards saying “Something witty”, all because we weren’t able to post our regular instalments of Poll Thursday and BUML Previews. Well, here’s what happened. We’ve started to box up some of the stuff here in the mansion in getting ready for the move, and we ventured into Wettie’s old room in the attic, which was supposed to be empty, and mostly was. But in the corner was a pile of old Cobras shirts, and something started moving. Yes, we roused one of Wettie’s old socks, which escaped into DanS’s wing (the one with all the ducting and grates … yes, just like those spaceships in Alien – we don’t know what’s going on in that kid’s head sometimes), and we’ve had to break out the proton packs and be constantly on edge. Keeping your finger on the trigger makes it hard to type. But after several days there’s been no movement on the scanners, so we can only assume its gone back into hibernation and get back to packing.
Packing you ask? Well, yes, normal service here will be first disrupted and then probably discontinued as JdR is departing the stately Brisbane Ultimate Blog mansion at some time in the next month or two (farewell soiree to be confirmed) for the freezing cold death plains of Canberra. Expect a few adios posts but don’t panic, it won’t be some sort of multi-year contract of testamonials with Courier Mail coverage and all that, because after all, we ain’t footballers.
Anyway, let’s have a look at next Monday’s BUML draw, mostly because you probably couldn’t be arsed reading the above, and are busy looking to see what we’ve written about White Lantern / the Dyspnoeics / Luke ‘Winter Is Coming’ Stark.
Plus, it’s a pretty thrilling set of games this week!
**Division 1 – Captain America!
“When Captain America throws his mighty shield,
All those who chose to oppose his shield must yield!
If he’s led to a fight and a duel is due,
Then the red and white and the blue’ll come through!
When Captain America throws his mighty shield!!”
>>Drop Bears vs Poachers – Annerley 3B
The Drop Bears have been getting stronger as the season progresses, plus they pushed the Poachers very hard last time, but this week looks like continuing the big P’s rampage. Indeed, the Poachers currently undefeated sit at the top of the Division 1 table and thereby officially lose any ‘dark horse’ status that’s been attached to them for … hmm, probably for as long as they’ve existed now. Indeed, there’s starting to be talk of a Poacher Premiership in some quarters, although of course media darling ‘Sugar Dan’ Blacklock will likely be rolling out the clichés like “We’re just playing one game at the time”, “It’s a long season”, and “How much wood could a woodchuck chuck if a woochuck could chuck would?”
>Our Tip: Poachers to make like World War 2 and win by 3.
>>Dyspnoeics vs White Lantern – Easts 1
Well, this should be interesting. Two of the biggest smack talking clubs in the League (at least on the internet) face off at Easts. The Dysponeics are still making hay from former D’s junior Andy McLean’s successes in the National Division 2 competition and Mansauce still looks like that guy from Bluejuice. Meanwhile, White Lantern have got their new kit been talking about how they’ve been undefeated for some time … since they lost 14-10 to the Dyspnoeics back in Round 4. Hopefully the wittiest banter will all come out to play in the comments selection below.
>Our Tip: Dyspnoeics to harness the power of the cosmic cube and win by 1.
>>UQ Lovers vs Ghost Who Walks – Gap 1
After two losses in a row, the Lovers seem to be continuing their traditional Semester 1 fade as holidays kick in, exams approach and without an immanent UniGames to fire them up (surely a reason for the normally recalcitrant UQ hierarchy to support Ultimate at Northerns in 2013 – it seems that several Griffith Ultimate players were so desperate for Northerns this year that they signed up to play mixed netball!?) The question is, can the Ghost Who Walks capitalise on this? The Gap venue can only help. An upset beckons, if only the purple-suited-mothers can get their defence sorted out. Still, the Lovers will probably get out of bed enough to get a conceded pass.
>Our Tip: Lovers to partner with the Falcon and win by 2.
**Division 2 – Thor!!
“’Cross the Rainbow Bridge of Asgard
Where the booming heavens roar,
You’ll behold in breathless wonder,
The God of Thunder, Mighty Thor!”
>>Tsunami vs Bermuda Triangle – Annerley 3A
Sweet mother of crap! THE biggest clash of the season so far, we might say. Bermuda Triangle remain the only BUML in the world that has won every game its played in 2012. The smile on BT Donna’s face must be a mile wide … but don’t forget those pursed lips hide the fangs of a game-dominating monster! Tsunami meanwhile have only lost once, and that was way way way back at the start of the season, when they went down 15-9 to … Bermuda Triangle. Yes, we’re now clearly into the second half of the season for Division 2, and well done draw-master Foxy for setting up these two likely grand finalists playing each other this far out. It’ll be a close one!
>Our Tip: Bermuda to bring the hammer down and win by 2.
>>Disc-iples vs Discheads – Easts 2
As our regular readers will know, cheesy disc-pun attempts at team names always put us off, and this game, which features two such abominations, makes it difficult. Particularly since they are such nice teams, filled with nice young men and women, who play some nice Ultimate. The Iples have been in a lot of games without taking the points, and meanwhile, the Heads have lost a few lately and are vulnterable. That said, expect the Heads to give it, Radiator style, and to lift and tuck it long all night long.
>Our Tip: Discheads to claim the all-seeing eye of Odin by 6.
>>What the Huck? vs Baby Chimis – Easts 3
We here at the stately mansion haven’t have a chance to wander down to the School of Huck for quite a while (hmm, maybe they need offer someone up for an interviewing?), but with their running game they’ll be looking to do some schooling of the under-age jailbait that is the Baby Chimis in this game.
>Our Tip: What the Huck? to quaff an entire barrel of enchanted mead by 4.
>>Heroes vs Agent Orange – Gap 1
Tighter than a very tight thing. The Agents seem to have started to get it together the last few weeks – maybe its been the compulsory defollication of some of their hairier moments (and players) and are now looking to work their way up the table. The Heroes remain largely steady, but will still be happy about rolling middle brother the Discheads recently. Frankly, this should be an excellent match.
>Our Tip: Agent Orange make like Loki on our heroes by 1.
**Division 3 – Iron Man!!!
“Tony Stark makes you feel
He’s a cool exec with a heart of steel.
As Iron Man, all jets ablaze,
He’s fighting and smiting with repulsor rays!
Amazing armor! That’s Iron Man!
A blazing power! That’s Iron Man!”
>>Griffith FC vs QUTies – Annerley 5A
Griffith FC (is it Griffith Financial Crisis? Flatball Club? Facility Challenged?) have managed to shake the Yee Haws moniker their club tried to put on them but now have to travel to Annerley to take on the QUTies, who last week annihilated the Yeast to show that yes Mum, they can score. Plus this made it two wins on the trot. All Griffith Clubs hate travelling but the GFC in particular, as MoTo and Jordii have trouble finding the team at the best of times. The QUTies will be very much seeking revenge for their 9-7 loss to the Yee Haws at the start of the year.
>Our Tip: QUTies get it on with some honeys by 4.
>>Slipped Discs vs Yeast – Annerley 5B
Well, this is very exciting. Two of the newer teams in the competition, and already the rivalry is there … and it is FRESH, let us tell you. Only two weeks ago these two teams played out a colossal battle that saw the Yeast grab the closest possible win of 17-16 in triple overtime with cheese and onion rings on the side because they like it a little bit fancy. The Slippers sucked up the pain and unleashed at Griffith last week, stringing together the necessary 17 points to close the game with a five point win (their first for the season). So yeah, this should be a big and passionate game.
>Our Tip: Yeast to slam down a few dozen martinis before lunch by 1.
>>Apostles vs Griffith Go-Go’s – Griffith 1
You know up above we said this was one of the best rounds of BUML this season? Well here’s why, as we see a TOP OF THE TABLE clash in Division 3. The distant past, where the Go-Go’s won this match-up at the start of the season, 16-12, is not only gone and forgotten, its been buried, dug up, slapped around, dismembered, incinerated and left for the crows, as the Apostles have gone from strength to strength on a seven day basis of being unbeaten since, most recently cleaning up heavyweights Mellow Yellow by 4 points, who of course delivered the Go-Go’s their only defeat of the season a fair way back. Still, the Go-Go’s have solidified into a quite heavy solid-thing, and they showed a lot of grit to come back and win against their effervescent sister team the Oh Yeahs 13-12 last Monday. Plus with JdR leaving town sooner or later he’s got real glory to play for (rather than the usual inevitable spirit prize). So heck, we’ll have to tip the rRds, even though this is probably the hardest game to call of the season so far, and going on form, a likely grand final preview. Have we said enough?
>Our Tip: Go-Go’s to invest billions in some high technology stuff by 1.
>>Mellow Yellow vs Griffith Oh Yeahs – Griffith 2
Meanwhile, if there’s two teams that are looking to shake the Apostles-Go-Go’s-Final calculation trees, its these two. It’ll be like one of them western movies we think – the sly “old gringo’ out for a quick score or at least a knees up at the saloon that is Mellow Yellow, up against the young “Kid” with a charming smile that covers up his theft of your grandmother’s false teeth and gold toenails. Both these teams will also be all about coming back from losses last week, loses that burn deep into their very souls, like the blazing sun while you ride across the desert on a horse with no name. Let’s home there’s no rain.
>Our Tip: Griffith Oh Yeahs to engineer a better future for all through free energy oh wait that’s just a comic book by 2.
Not sure when we'll see you next, but we'll see you before you see us!
Packing you ask? Well, yes, normal service here will be first disrupted and then probably discontinued as JdR is departing the stately Brisbane Ultimate Blog mansion at some time in the next month or two (farewell soiree to be confirmed) for the freezing cold death plains of Canberra. Expect a few adios posts but don’t panic, it won’t be some sort of multi-year contract of testamonials with Courier Mail coverage and all that, because after all, we ain’t footballers.
Anyway, let’s have a look at next Monday’s BUML draw, mostly because you probably couldn’t be arsed reading the above, and are busy looking to see what we’ve written about White Lantern / the Dyspnoeics / Luke ‘Winter Is Coming’ Stark.
Plus, it’s a pretty thrilling set of games this week!
**Division 1 – Captain America!
“When Captain America throws his mighty shield,
All those who chose to oppose his shield must yield!
If he’s led to a fight and a duel is due,
Then the red and white and the blue’ll come through!
When Captain America throws his mighty shield!!”
>>Drop Bears vs Poachers – Annerley 3B
The Drop Bears have been getting stronger as the season progresses, plus they pushed the Poachers very hard last time, but this week looks like continuing the big P’s rampage. Indeed, the Poachers currently undefeated sit at the top of the Division 1 table and thereby officially lose any ‘dark horse’ status that’s been attached to them for … hmm, probably for as long as they’ve existed now. Indeed, there’s starting to be talk of a Poacher Premiership in some quarters, although of course media darling ‘Sugar Dan’ Blacklock will likely be rolling out the clichés like “We’re just playing one game at the time”, “It’s a long season”, and “How much wood could a woodchuck chuck if a woochuck could chuck would?”
>Our Tip: Poachers to make like World War 2 and win by 3.
>>Dyspnoeics vs White Lantern – Easts 1
Well, this should be interesting. Two of the biggest smack talking clubs in the League (at least on the internet) face off at Easts. The Dysponeics are still making hay from former D’s junior Andy McLean’s successes in the National Division 2 competition and Mansauce still looks like that guy from Bluejuice. Meanwhile, White Lantern have got their new kit been talking about how they’ve been undefeated for some time … since they lost 14-10 to the Dyspnoeics back in Round 4. Hopefully the wittiest banter will all come out to play in the comments selection below.
>Our Tip: Dyspnoeics to harness the power of the cosmic cube and win by 1.
>>UQ Lovers vs Ghost Who Walks – Gap 1
After two losses in a row, the Lovers seem to be continuing their traditional Semester 1 fade as holidays kick in, exams approach and without an immanent UniGames to fire them up (surely a reason for the normally recalcitrant UQ hierarchy to support Ultimate at Northerns in 2013 – it seems that several Griffith Ultimate players were so desperate for Northerns this year that they signed up to play mixed netball!?) The question is, can the Ghost Who Walks capitalise on this? The Gap venue can only help. An upset beckons, if only the purple-suited-mothers can get their defence sorted out. Still, the Lovers will probably get out of bed enough to get a conceded pass.
>Our Tip: Lovers to partner with the Falcon and win by 2.
**Division 2 – Thor!!
“’Cross the Rainbow Bridge of Asgard
Where the booming heavens roar,
You’ll behold in breathless wonder,
The God of Thunder, Mighty Thor!”
>>Tsunami vs Bermuda Triangle – Annerley 3A
Sweet mother of crap! THE biggest clash of the season so far, we might say. Bermuda Triangle remain the only BUML in the world that has won every game its played in 2012. The smile on BT Donna’s face must be a mile wide … but don’t forget those pursed lips hide the fangs of a game-dominating monster! Tsunami meanwhile have only lost once, and that was way way way back at the start of the season, when they went down 15-9 to … Bermuda Triangle. Yes, we’re now clearly into the second half of the season for Division 2, and well done draw-master Foxy for setting up these two likely grand finalists playing each other this far out. It’ll be a close one!
>Our Tip: Bermuda to bring the hammer down and win by 2.
>>Disc-iples vs Discheads – Easts 2
As our regular readers will know, cheesy disc-pun attempts at team names always put us off, and this game, which features two such abominations, makes it difficult. Particularly since they are such nice teams, filled with nice young men and women, who play some nice Ultimate. The Iples have been in a lot of games without taking the points, and meanwhile, the Heads have lost a few lately and are vulnterable. That said, expect the Heads to give it, Radiator style, and to lift and tuck it long all night long.
>Our Tip: Discheads to claim the all-seeing eye of Odin by 6.
>>What the Huck? vs Baby Chimis – Easts 3
We here at the stately mansion haven’t have a chance to wander down to the School of Huck for quite a while (hmm, maybe they need offer someone up for an interviewing?), but with their running game they’ll be looking to do some schooling of the under-age jailbait that is the Baby Chimis in this game.
>Our Tip: What the Huck? to quaff an entire barrel of enchanted mead by 4.
>>Heroes vs Agent Orange – Gap 1
Tighter than a very tight thing. The Agents seem to have started to get it together the last few weeks – maybe its been the compulsory defollication of some of their hairier moments (and players) and are now looking to work their way up the table. The Heroes remain largely steady, but will still be happy about rolling middle brother the Discheads recently. Frankly, this should be an excellent match.
>Our Tip: Agent Orange make like Loki on our heroes by 1.
**Division 3 – Iron Man!!!
“Tony Stark makes you feel
He’s a cool exec with a heart of steel.
As Iron Man, all jets ablaze,
He’s fighting and smiting with repulsor rays!
Amazing armor! That’s Iron Man!
A blazing power! That’s Iron Man!”
>>Griffith FC vs QUTies – Annerley 5A
Griffith FC (is it Griffith Financial Crisis? Flatball Club? Facility Challenged?) have managed to shake the Yee Haws moniker their club tried to put on them but now have to travel to Annerley to take on the QUTies, who last week annihilated the Yeast to show that yes Mum, they can score. Plus this made it two wins on the trot. All Griffith Clubs hate travelling but the GFC in particular, as MoTo and Jordii have trouble finding the team at the best of times. The QUTies will be very much seeking revenge for their 9-7 loss to the Yee Haws at the start of the year.
>Our Tip: QUTies get it on with some honeys by 4.
>>Slipped Discs vs Yeast – Annerley 5B
Well, this is very exciting. Two of the newer teams in the competition, and already the rivalry is there … and it is FRESH, let us tell you. Only two weeks ago these two teams played out a colossal battle that saw the Yeast grab the closest possible win of 17-16 in triple overtime with cheese and onion rings on the side because they like it a little bit fancy. The Slippers sucked up the pain and unleashed at Griffith last week, stringing together the necessary 17 points to close the game with a five point win (their first for the season). So yeah, this should be a big and passionate game.
>Our Tip: Yeast to slam down a few dozen martinis before lunch by 1.
>>Apostles vs Griffith Go-Go’s – Griffith 1
You know up above we said this was one of the best rounds of BUML this season? Well here’s why, as we see a TOP OF THE TABLE clash in Division 3. The distant past, where the Go-Go’s won this match-up at the start of the season, 16-12, is not only gone and forgotten, its been buried, dug up, slapped around, dismembered, incinerated and left for the crows, as the Apostles have gone from strength to strength on a seven day basis of being unbeaten since, most recently cleaning up heavyweights Mellow Yellow by 4 points, who of course delivered the Go-Go’s their only defeat of the season a fair way back. Still, the Go-Go’s have solidified into a quite heavy solid-thing, and they showed a lot of grit to come back and win against their effervescent sister team the Oh Yeahs 13-12 last Monday. Plus with JdR leaving town sooner or later he’s got real glory to play for (rather than the usual inevitable spirit prize). So heck, we’ll have to tip the rRds, even though this is probably the hardest game to call of the season so far, and going on form, a likely grand final preview. Have we said enough?
>Our Tip: Go-Go’s to invest billions in some high technology stuff by 1.
>>Mellow Yellow vs Griffith Oh Yeahs – Griffith 2
Meanwhile, if there’s two teams that are looking to shake the Apostles-Go-Go’s-Final calculation trees, its these two. It’ll be like one of them western movies we think – the sly “old gringo’ out for a quick score or at least a knees up at the saloon that is Mellow Yellow, up against the young “Kid” with a charming smile that covers up his theft of your grandmother’s false teeth and gold toenails. Both these teams will also be all about coming back from losses last week, loses that burn deep into their very souls, like the blazing sun while you ride across the desert on a horse with no name. Let’s home there’s no rain.
>Our Tip: Griffith Oh Yeahs to engineer a better future for all through free energy oh wait that’s just a comic book by 2.
Not sure when we'll see you next, but we'll see you before you see us!
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Happy Birthday, Mr President ...
Happy birthday BUDA President (and many other things), Mat Ryan.
That is all.
That is all.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Women's Ultimate Frisbee League Returns
Mark the time and place - Tuesday, May 29th at Oakman Park, Toowong.
Friday, April 20, 2012
Cheese and Simmo Take the Nats Baton
So yes, its Nationals from this Sunday, but we here in the stately Brisbane Ultimate Blog mansion are unusually distracted at present. Thankfully Cheeseburger has emailed all and sundry with some of the essentials, and we cut and paste that below.
We should also point to Simmo over at Forcesideline, who's doing a fantastic job at the event previewing that we used to make a half-arsed attempt at. We don't think he's calling us in particular about when he references "journalists" in inverted commas at all.
Anyway, best of luck to all Queenslanders!
We should also point to Simmo over at Forcesideline, who's doing a fantastic job at the event previewing that we used to make a half-arsed attempt at. We don't think he's calling us in particular about when he references "journalists" in inverted commas at all.
Anyway, best of luck to all Queenslanders!
Hey everyone,
The Australian Ultimate Championships will be held from Sunday 22nd to
Wednesday 25th in Newcastle, NSW.
A bunch of your team mates/opponents/coaches will be heading down to
represent Queensland and their club.
OPEN DIVISION
Brisbane's Firestorm is sending two teams, Firestorm (seeded 6th) and
Firestorm Ignition (seeded 15th). The Gold Coast is sending the Slamtown
Flatball Club, seeded 12th.
WOMEN'S DIVISION
Brisbane's Black Betty are the sole Qld representative, going in seeded
9th.
FOLLOWING THE TOURNAMENT
There's going to be various ways to keep up to date with what's happening
if you're interested.
>Nationals website: http://www.auc2012.com/results.html
>Nationals Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/2012-Australian-Ultimate-Championship/277866728942943
>A page with a compilation of Twitter feeds: http://www.netvibes.com/ausjmc10#Tw%2FFB
>There'll be footage going up soon after the tournament at http://ulti.tv/ if you're
keen to check it out.
Cheers all.
John
Firestorm #10
BUML2012-1 Catchup Round A Preview: Buckle Me Britches!
So Monday 23 April – a bunch of very important people (or at least, people who can take Monday and Tuesday off work) are off at Nationals in Newcastle and can’t make it back to hit the field for BUML, which means we’re into catch-up week (at least for Divisions 2 and 3 we guess). Fortunately for the casual follower of BUML, this is going to be an awesome night of disc!
>>Division 2 – Baby Chimis vs Agent Orange – Easts 2
Well, this should be an absolute cracker. Both these teams have proud histories but have fallen on hard times this season, with one win between them over 10 games. Expect the battle to include both tooth AND nail. It’ll be scrappy.
>Our tip: 9-9 draw
>>Division 2 – Bermuda Triangle vs Discheads – Easts 3
Meanwhile, this game should also be an absolute cracker, showcasing a massive contrast between steady consistency and wild inconsistency. BT remain undefeated and want to see this continue. Discheads are probably the most all-over-the-shop team in the league at the moment, handing out and receiving pastings at any particular moment. Probably the loss of some greyshirt players to Nats will be the difference though, while BT will keep rolling on.
>Our tip: Bermuda Triangle by 7.
>>Division 3 – Slipped Discs vs Yeast – Easts 1
This game features the Yeast who were slightly late at getting onto the draw, and the Slipped Discs who landed the opening week bye. But what a match-up – this game should also be an absolute cracker. Having played both teams, it’s the apprentice Yeast who have a massive workrate even if they’re still working out this Frisbee thing, up against the journeymen and women Slippers who have worked out what this Frisbee thing is about, but are still working on execution. Expect big games from Brendan for the Slippers and Brendan for the Yeast. Ryan vs Wes should also be an interesting head to head.
>Our tip: Yeast by 3.
>>Bonus – Schtick Battle – Griffith University vs The World – Griffith 1 and 2
As the Archangel Michael said while facing Lucifer, “BATTLE!” And that’s what we should see out at Griffith Nathan on Monday night, as the red-garbed students invite all and sundry to teach and then be schooled on the University’s Schtick field. Keep an eye on Jordiii as he likes the old ‘is that a disc in your pants or are you just happy to see me?’ trick, and remember that Casey is responsible for most of the edits on Wikipedia’s Schtick page – so if you see him on the smartphone, he may be changing the rules on you during the game (cheeky bugger!). Its Schtick ON from about 7.40pm.
>Our tip: Everyone’s a winner baby, that’s the truth (that’s no lie).
>>Division 2 – Baby Chimis vs Agent Orange – Easts 2
Well, this should be an absolute cracker. Both these teams have proud histories but have fallen on hard times this season, with one win between them over 10 games. Expect the battle to include both tooth AND nail. It’ll be scrappy.
>Our tip: 9-9 draw
>>Division 2 – Bermuda Triangle vs Discheads – Easts 3
Meanwhile, this game should also be an absolute cracker, showcasing a massive contrast between steady consistency and wild inconsistency. BT remain undefeated and want to see this continue. Discheads are probably the most all-over-the-shop team in the league at the moment, handing out and receiving pastings at any particular moment. Probably the loss of some greyshirt players to Nats will be the difference though, while BT will keep rolling on.
>Our tip: Bermuda Triangle by 7.
>>Division 3 – Slipped Discs vs Yeast – Easts 1
This game features the Yeast who were slightly late at getting onto the draw, and the Slipped Discs who landed the opening week bye. But what a match-up – this game should also be an absolute cracker. Having played both teams, it’s the apprentice Yeast who have a massive workrate even if they’re still working out this Frisbee thing, up against the journeymen and women Slippers who have worked out what this Frisbee thing is about, but are still working on execution. Expect big games from Brendan for the Slippers and Brendan for the Yeast. Ryan vs Wes should also be an interesting head to head.
>Our tip: Yeast by 3.
>>Bonus – Schtick Battle – Griffith University vs The World – Griffith 1 and 2
As the Archangel Michael said while facing Lucifer, “BATTLE!” And that’s what we should see out at Griffith Nathan on Monday night, as the red-garbed students invite all and sundry to teach and then be schooled on the University’s Schtick field. Keep an eye on Jordiii as he likes the old ‘is that a disc in your pants or are you just happy to see me?’ trick, and remember that Casey is responsible for most of the edits on Wikipedia’s Schtick page – so if you see him on the smartphone, he may be changing the rules on you during the game (cheeky bugger!). Its Schtick ON from about 7.40pm.
>Our tip: Everyone’s a winner baby, that’s the truth (that’s no lie).
Thursday, April 19, 2012
BPL Action ACTion ACTION
The new BPL blog is doing a great job in the day to day of BPL action ACTion ACTION, but occasionally we here at the stately mansion feel the need to return to our roots too and talk BPL.
So the latest wizz-bang-for-fun idea over at BPL HQ is that it needs a logo and is running a sweet competition to harness the creative energy flowing around out there! Closing on 17 May.
Our main tip is to ensure the logo has 'Ultimate' and possibly 'Ultimate Frisbee' on it (either in words, or visuals of people with discs on it). BPL means something to you and us, certainly ... maybe a couple of hundred people. But to anyone outside the immediate Brisbane Ultimate playing community, there needs to be some explanation. So think about the audience, and think BIG.
Meanwhile, those with pointy heads are also starting to put on their thinking caps with regards BPL's future.
Our suggestion here is that the 'mid year between seasons season' that has evolved in recent years needs to move beyond 'a thing to fill in the gap while the LD recharges his batteries' to being a massive thing on its own. The mid-year season is the MAJOR opportunity to recruit new players and expose them to Ultimate that's different to mixed and muckaround.
The start of the normal seasons actually sees relatively little recruitment of new players as teams (quite reasonably) invest heavily in winning the immediate season rather than developing players for the future or recruiting newbies.
So, why not a vision of the Winter Brisbane Premier Hat League, aiming at 6+ teams, running for 6-9 weeks, using Annerley 3A,3B,5A,5B, team shirts using the new BPL logo, involving a big effort at recruiting players from BUML and the Universities as well as rank newbies?
A lot of work, yes. But if the goal is to grow BPL, then you need to grow men's Thursday Ultimate to get the pool of elite players.
So the latest wizz-bang-for-fun idea over at BPL HQ is that it needs a logo and is running a sweet competition to harness the creative energy flowing around out there! Closing on 17 May.
Our main tip is to ensure the logo has 'Ultimate' and possibly 'Ultimate Frisbee' on it (either in words, or visuals of people with discs on it). BPL means something to you and us, certainly ... maybe a couple of hundred people. But to anyone outside the immediate Brisbane Ultimate playing community, there needs to be some explanation. So think about the audience, and think BIG.
Meanwhile, those with pointy heads are also starting to put on their thinking caps with regards BPL's future.
Our suggestion here is that the 'mid year between seasons season' that has evolved in recent years needs to move beyond 'a thing to fill in the gap while the LD recharges his batteries' to being a massive thing on its own. The mid-year season is the MAJOR opportunity to recruit new players and expose them to Ultimate that's different to mixed and muckaround.
The start of the normal seasons actually sees relatively little recruitment of new players as teams (quite reasonably) invest heavily in winning the immediate season rather than developing players for the future or recruiting newbies.
So, why not a vision of the Winter Brisbane Premier Hat League, aiming at 6+ teams, running for 6-9 weeks, using Annerley 3A,3B,5A,5B, team shirts using the new BPL logo, involving a big effort at recruiting players from BUML and the Universities as well as rank newbies?
A lot of work, yes. But if the goal is to grow BPL, then you need to grow men's Thursday Ultimate to get the pool of elite players.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
A Midline Bisects the Globe (i.e. the Earth) Into Two Territories
So most of you are aware that just as you can play lots of different sports with balls, you can play lots of different sports with discs (not just Ultimate or even Disc Golf).
Take it from us, its worth refreshing your knowledge of Schtick. Just don't try one-on-one Schtick against Reece - its flipping exhausting.
Take it from us, its worth refreshing your knowledge of Schtick. Just don't try one-on-one Schtick against Reece - its flipping exhausting.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
BUML Team of the Week - The Apostles
One of the brand new teams in the BUML this season, the Ultimate Apostles are currently smashing all before them in Division 3, terrifying opponents into submission with their extensive team warmups and pink headbands. So it seemed appropriate to send them a special golden ticket invitation to join us in the diary room at the stately Brisbane Ultimate Blog mansion, and see what they have to say. So welcome to team Captain Marcus, and his sidekick Kaitlan.
Brisbane Ultimate Blog (BUB): Thanks so much for coming in. Its great to see a brand new team in the BUML, full of spanky new players. So we have to ask, what’s the secret origin of the Apostles?
Marcus: *opens old book blows off the dust* it all began on a playing field in a suburb far far away. A mythical player, no! legend, who goes by then name VINKO began the team ‘Goodtimes’. This time was known as the creation. Struck by an expired student life VINKO relinquished his throne to the warlord know as DR RYAN EVANS and myself. Together we formed a team known as the brutal ‘Hammer-time’. These dark ages brought in the point known as the hammer point, where players from Hammer-time were only permitted to throw hammers on the field. On the move to Monday nights BUML an alliance was formed with the COOTE clan to create the ‘Disc-iples’ powerhouse. As numbers swelled at the beginning of 2012, a sister/brother team was formed. The Disc-iples had given birth to the team ‘Ultimate Apostles’. Our friends call us ‘Apostles’
BUB: And, how did you originally get into Ultimate yourself?
Marcus: I original joined Ultimate for reasons many young men join Ultimate, “the money, the power and …. The Wommmannnnn,” (in an Italian accent). As I am yet to see any money from Ultimate or power for that matter, you could at least say a girl did talk me into coming along and she is closer then you may know.
Kaitlan: We both started playing Wednesday night league as shy undergraduates at UQ and now we are playing our seventh season! Can't believe how fast it has gone, but we have had the best time and met great people.
BUB: And are you happy with how things have gone so far this season for the Apostles?
Marcus: As our parent team/brother team/ sister team/ the ‘Disc-iples’ know how difficult a team can be to pull together at the beginning of the season. But with lots of constructive criticism, “YELLING HAMMER” at first comers, they have really come along in the past five weeks. With a loss to begin - which was a little damaging mentally, the “Go Go’s’ really welcomed us to a tough competition - the weeks since have delivered good play and close games.
Kaitlan: The team is going from strength to strength, especially now everyone has gotten to know each other- and have learnt that "chilli" means slow down, not HOT HOT PASS IT NOW!!!
BUB: As the team has coallesed, aave you started to envisage team shirts? Perhaps some brown robes?
Marcus: The Force (away) is strong in this idea however I do believe that the robes will restrict our uncanny ability to throw a hammer during any regular calm passage of play. The design of the shirt will be a surprise for all to see as soon as my workers in the Philippines are able to produce them. See below for team logo. And I must say the team has also pulled together quite strongly since the pink headband were introduced by Elliot and Kaitlan.
BUB: Nice logo. But yes, the pink headbank is quite ... disturbing to see on an opponent. Hope you keep that in there.
Kaitlan: The shirt designs look awesome thanks to our chief logo designer (Marcus), although some of our team members are disappointed the uniform is not black morph suits- I think they were thinking as soon as they put them on that we would all be transformed into ninjas.
BUB: What’s your take on the rest of Division 3? Who looks good and who looks like they'll be doing it tough?
Marcus: This is going to be a tough season, no stand out dominating team, no weaklings to be crushed on a week to week basis. Cannot wait to see what happens at finals.
Kaitlan: I am excited about our game against Mellow Yellow- always on the opposite field to us I have observed some very good and classy flow going on ... plus something about the bright shirts just makes me mesmerised!!!
BUB: Do you have any special techniques for bringing your new players up to speed, on the field and off?
Kaitlan: Marcus has taught us to read the Brisbane Ultimate Blog daily. Also we had a team day at the beach recently which was a good lesson on trying to get discs to fly straight in strong winds.
Marcus: Although I do vote on regular occasions the BUB blog, (we did win that vote fair and square) it is not the only thing that keeps the Apostles fresh. Updating the team midweek with inspiration quotes form Einstein, Newton, Bob Katter and Ron Burgundy really helps build confidence. I also enforce the slogan for our team, as the Russians say, “Боль слабость покидает тело” (pain is just weakness leaving the body).
BUB: Since nobody else knows any of you, perhaps you can give us a few tips on your team-mates?
Marcus: Without giving too much away, here is a quick rundown on the team.
- Dan Lau: Danger man, or danger DAN as some call him, quick off the mark and hungry for the disc.
- Mark Chan: The Giant of the team, poor spacial awareness allows mark to be strong in defence and safe as houses under the high disc.
- Alex Leask: Ultimate blood runs in his veins, possesses the secret weapon.
- Elliot Cook: The cook, doesn’t mind eating a mouthful of grass or wearing a pink cape for that matter.
- Meg Ryan: Yes the actor! After the rough and tumble of an all girls school, she doesn’t stuff around, give her an inch and she will take a mile.
- Kaitlan Laurie: The lion, the experience of her years is apparent with the disc in hand. Huck, hammer or hail Mary it will finish in the end zone.
- Annie Laurie: Keeping it in the family, the spirit of Ultimate is strong in this one, the youngest known in the league and looking at making ultimate a full time profession.
- Lyle Mitrovich: Hailing from the desert planes of South Africa this native beast brings the anger of a star fish and the control of a mollusc.
- Ben Dawson: Hand baller! Bring those big air times and is tough to match under a huck!
- Liam Grimmond: Quiet, cool, calm, well that is what he wants you to think when you try to put one past him.
- Olivia Heckenberg: changing a netball for a Frisbee has never been so easy, strong defence and mark, make Olivia a difficult opponent.
- Lyneta Darlington: Living in the former room of an Ultimate great (RYAN EVANS) the game just comes naturally.
- Julia Roddock: It was only a matter of time before the ultimate spirit surrounding this one consumed her. Girls watch out!
BUB: This sounds like a very cohesive line-up!
Kaitlan: The team is a mixture of family, uni friends and past friends from Frisbee so there is always plenty of laughs and crude jokes pulled out on and off the field.
BUB: Anything else you’ve got for us?
Kaitlan: Watch out for Marcus's hammer throws- thrown with wild abandonment, they always seem to hit true to the Mark (pun intended Mark Chan).
Marcus: Be ready for the first pull… we are going to come out flying.
BUB: Well, best of luck for the second half of the season.
Brisbane Ultimate Blog (BUB): Thanks so much for coming in. Its great to see a brand new team in the BUML, full of spanky new players. So we have to ask, what’s the secret origin of the Apostles?
Marcus: *opens old book blows off the dust* it all began on a playing field in a suburb far far away. A mythical player, no! legend, who goes by then name VINKO began the team ‘Goodtimes’. This time was known as the creation. Struck by an expired student life VINKO relinquished his throne to the warlord know as DR RYAN EVANS and myself. Together we formed a team known as the brutal ‘Hammer-time’. These dark ages brought in the point known as the hammer point, where players from Hammer-time were only permitted to throw hammers on the field. On the move to Monday nights BUML an alliance was formed with the COOTE clan to create the ‘Disc-iples’ powerhouse. As numbers swelled at the beginning of 2012, a sister/brother team was formed. The Disc-iples had given birth to the team ‘Ultimate Apostles’. Our friends call us ‘Apostles’
BUB: And, how did you originally get into Ultimate yourself?
Marcus: I original joined Ultimate for reasons many young men join Ultimate, “the money, the power and …. The Wommmannnnn,” (in an Italian accent). As I am yet to see any money from Ultimate or power for that matter, you could at least say a girl did talk me into coming along and she is closer then you may know.
Kaitlan: We both started playing Wednesday night league as shy undergraduates at UQ and now we are playing our seventh season! Can't believe how fast it has gone, but we have had the best time and met great people.
BUB: And are you happy with how things have gone so far this season for the Apostles?
Marcus: As our parent team/brother team/ sister team/ the ‘Disc-iples’ know how difficult a team can be to pull together at the beginning of the season. But with lots of constructive criticism, “YELLING HAMMER” at first comers, they have really come along in the past five weeks. With a loss to begin - which was a little damaging mentally, the “Go Go’s’ really welcomed us to a tough competition - the weeks since have delivered good play and close games.
Kaitlan: The team is going from strength to strength, especially now everyone has gotten to know each other- and have learnt that "chilli" means slow down, not HOT HOT PASS IT NOW!!!
BUB: As the team has coallesed, aave you started to envisage team shirts? Perhaps some brown robes?
Marcus: The Force (away) is strong in this idea however I do believe that the robes will restrict our uncanny ability to throw a hammer during any regular calm passage of play. The design of the shirt will be a surprise for all to see as soon as my workers in the Philippines are able to produce them. See below for team logo. And I must say the team has also pulled together quite strongly since the pink headband were introduced by Elliot and Kaitlan.
BUB: Nice logo. But yes, the pink headbank is quite ... disturbing to see on an opponent. Hope you keep that in there.Kaitlan: The shirt designs look awesome thanks to our chief logo designer (Marcus), although some of our team members are disappointed the uniform is not black morph suits- I think they were thinking as soon as they put them on that we would all be transformed into ninjas.
BUB: What’s your take on the rest of Division 3? Who looks good and who looks like they'll be doing it tough?
Marcus: This is going to be a tough season, no stand out dominating team, no weaklings to be crushed on a week to week basis. Cannot wait to see what happens at finals.
Kaitlan: I am excited about our game against Mellow Yellow- always on the opposite field to us I have observed some very good and classy flow going on ... plus something about the bright shirts just makes me mesmerised!!!
BUB: Do you have any special techniques for bringing your new players up to speed, on the field and off?
Kaitlan: Marcus has taught us to read the Brisbane Ultimate Blog daily. Also we had a team day at the beach recently which was a good lesson on trying to get discs to fly straight in strong winds.
Marcus: Although I do vote on regular occasions the BUB blog, (we did win that vote fair and square) it is not the only thing that keeps the Apostles fresh. Updating the team midweek with inspiration quotes form Einstein, Newton, Bob Katter and Ron Burgundy really helps build confidence. I also enforce the slogan for our team, as the Russians say, “Боль слабость покидает тело” (pain is just weakness leaving the body).
BUB: Since nobody else knows any of you, perhaps you can give us a few tips on your team-mates?
Marcus: Without giving too much away, here is a quick rundown on the team.
- Dan Lau: Danger man, or danger DAN as some call him, quick off the mark and hungry for the disc.
- Mark Chan: The Giant of the team, poor spacial awareness allows mark to be strong in defence and safe as houses under the high disc.
- Alex Leask: Ultimate blood runs in his veins, possesses the secret weapon.
- Elliot Cook: The cook, doesn’t mind eating a mouthful of grass or wearing a pink cape for that matter.
- Meg Ryan: Yes the actor! After the rough and tumble of an all girls school, she doesn’t stuff around, give her an inch and she will take a mile.
- Kaitlan Laurie: The lion, the experience of her years is apparent with the disc in hand. Huck, hammer or hail Mary it will finish in the end zone.
- Annie Laurie: Keeping it in the family, the spirit of Ultimate is strong in this one, the youngest known in the league and looking at making ultimate a full time profession.
- Lyle Mitrovich: Hailing from the desert planes of South Africa this native beast brings the anger of a star fish and the control of a mollusc.
- Ben Dawson: Hand baller! Bring those big air times and is tough to match under a huck!
- Liam Grimmond: Quiet, cool, calm, well that is what he wants you to think when you try to put one past him.
- Olivia Heckenberg: changing a netball for a Frisbee has never been so easy, strong defence and mark, make Olivia a difficult opponent.
- Lyneta Darlington: Living in the former room of an Ultimate great (RYAN EVANS) the game just comes naturally.
- Julia Roddock: It was only a matter of time before the ultimate spirit surrounding this one consumed her. Girls watch out!
BUB: This sounds like a very cohesive line-up!
Kaitlan: The team is a mixture of family, uni friends and past friends from Frisbee so there is always plenty of laughs and crude jokes pulled out on and off the field.
BUB: Anything else you’ve got for us?
Kaitlan: Watch out for Marcus's hammer throws- thrown with wild abandonment, they always seem to hit true to the Mark (pun intended Mark Chan).
Marcus: Be ready for the first pull… we are going to come out flying.
BUB: Well, best of luck for the second half of the season.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Queensland(er) Wins Division 2 Nationals!
Division 2 Nationals 2012 it sounds like it went very well over the weekend, despite the lack of a fully-fledged Queensland team (bonks Townsville on the head) which means that there will forever be an asterisk* against the winners ... except we'll stake a claim to the 2012 trophy, as the captain of the winning team, HoS Black, was none-other than proper-Queenslander-slumming-it-down-south Andy McLean. Well done Andy, TDs and disc-boys.
*Just kidding of course - well done to all. 10 teams!
*Just kidding of course - well done to all. 10 teams!
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Pink or Stink?
Here's the Pink Q-Hat team for 2011. The lad on the right seems to the more worried about stink than pink. Who will think pink this year? It's less than 7 months to Q-Hat 2012!
Friday, April 13, 2012
BUML2012-1 Round 7 Preview: I’ll Get My Camera!
So, our regular readers will have noticed that our friendly competition over at the BPL Blog have been trying to up their game in terms of posting and commenting. But we know you all prefer the wonderous longevity, dashing good looks and cheeky humour of the original and best, the Brisbane Ultimate Blog - 1406 posts and counting!
**Division 3 –Id**
>>Griffith Oh Yeahs vs QUTies – Annerley 5A
The rivalry between the QUTies and the three Griffith teams in Division 3 reaches its climax this week. The ‘Ultimate Players for the Real World’ have lost very tight games against the Yee Hars and the Go-Go’s so far this season, and won’t want to be 0/3 against the “Know More …. Frisbee” crew. But, this time around, the QUTies are facing the reds away from their Nathan bunker. Advantage to the blue and oranges? Form-wise, both of these teams come into this match up following holiday-related losses on Easter Monday. Should be close.
>Our tip: Oh Yeahs by 1.
>>Apostles vs Yeast – Annerley 5B
Yeast continue their ‘newbies get 50% better every week’ surge and gave Mellow Yellow a big scare last week, only losing by a couple of points. Meanwhile, the Apostles took advantage of the University holidays and spanked the QUTies, while still having time to drop into the stately Brisbane Ultimate Blog mansion for a little tete a tete that will see publication very soon. The Apostles are as close to dominators as Division 3 has at the moment, but they may also get a surprise from the unconventional Yeast rising style, which defies description or submission. Still, form counts.
>Our tip: Apostles by 2.
>>Mellow Yellow vs Griffith Yee Hars – Griffith 1
Our well dressed spy who occasionally drops by the Mellow Yellow Speakeasy has noted that Fluxie and DaveC are now joining Rolo in discretely putting on the plastic macs and slipping out the back door each Thursday night, before returning dishevelled but smiling later in the evening for more pale ales and fine cheese. We await more reports of what this means to Monday nights. Meanwhile, the Yee Hars hope to recover from eating way to much frickin’ chocolate over Easter, by running the heck out of their yellower and greyer opponents.
>Our tip: Mellow Yellow by 3.
>>Griffith Go-Go’s vs Slipped Discs – Griffith 2
The Slipped Discs have spent the season so far flying under the radar … at least until last week when the carpet bombed the Oh Yeahs’ endzone into submission in a massive pyrotechnical display. Many of the Go-Go’s will have their new shirts, but will be wary that from a distance their logo looks quite like a target. They just need to remember that the target is attracting for Casey’s unnecessary hammers. The Go-Go’s have been putting together several new connections so far this season, and this game might be the one where they unleash.
>Our tip: Go-Go’s by 4.
** Division 2 –Ego**
Division 2 continues it's electric boogaloo.
>>Tsunami vs Heroes – Annerley 3A
It’s like the One Direction vs Slipknot.
>Our tip: Tsunami by 3.
>>What the Huck? vs Disc-Iples – Easts 2
WTH clearly don’t go away over Easter, while the Disciples sadly had to forfeit. The momentum seems to be with the Huckers, although the Iples have been known to stage some big comebacks.
>Our tip: WTH? by 2.
>>Baby Chimis vs Discheads – Easts 3
The Chimis haven’t been winning many lately, but thankfully are sensible enough to know that in Ultimate, style counts – at least that’s our interpretation of their plans for a new run of Chimis shorts (get your orders in now). Discheads seem full of nationals-bound players who don’t want to be injured.
>Our tip: Discheads by 5.
>> Bermuda Triangle vs Agent Orange – Gap 1
We recently asked one of the younger BT players what they thought on the season, and their answer was something like “Yes, we’re liking this winning thing.” And we think that’s going to continue against Agent Orange, despite half the Triangle having to make their way across the Saragasso from Moorooka to the Gap. The orange ones are statistically and unfortunately the lowest scoring team in the BUML (partly due to that missed game) – so expect to see Gav get out the big stick and wave it at his team in an effort to be calmer on offence. Tipping-wise though, its undefeated vs all-defeated so far this season.
>Our tip: Bermuda Triangle by 7.
** Division 1 – Superego**
A look at the table after everyone’s played everyone (aside from the missed Gap game between the UQ Lovers and the Ghost Who Walks – which many would suggest is straight forward to tip the winner of) and its relatively close, in particular due to a good win by the Drop Bears last week, and White Lantern getting a tie against the Poachers (who’d previously tied with the UQ Lovers – watch that clock more closely, Poachers!)
>>The Ghost Who Walks vs Poachers – Annerley 3B
As mentioned, the Poachers had high scoring draw last week against White Lantern – indeed, going on the stats, the Poachers are the highest scoring team in the entire BUML. Maybe its just that they don’t faff around between points? Or it could just be that they’re very very good. TGWW meanwhile continue to build their class from week to week. We here are waiting for them to slay a giant … is this the week? Probably not. Can someone send us a photo of the littlest Ghost (no doubt now getting quite big), in purple preferably?
>Our tip: Poachers by 6.
>>Dyspnoeics vs Drop Bears – Easts 1
Drop Bears entered the winners circle last week and have basked in the glory for seven days. But now comes the wake up call, as the Blue Ds are no doubt angry and confused about not being top of the table, like in that movie, Spaceballs. Let’s hope the other part of the double bill isn’t The Bad News Bears. It was apparently noted that there were a few too many photos of the self-promoting Dyspnoeics in the recently published History of BUML. Perhaps we can correct this with a photo of the Drop Bears next week?
>Our tip: Dyspnoeics by 4.
>>UQ Lovers vs White Lantern – Gap 2
Both of these teams have had a lot of tight games this season, but our expectation is the trip to The Gap should loosen them up a lot, leading to plenty of white hot loving! Can someone send us a photo of the White Lantern and UQ Lover strips for this season?
>Our tip: White Lantern by 1.
**Division 3 –Id**
>>Griffith Oh Yeahs vs QUTies – Annerley 5A
The rivalry between the QUTies and the three Griffith teams in Division 3 reaches its climax this week. The ‘Ultimate Players for the Real World’ have lost very tight games against the Yee Hars and the Go-Go’s so far this season, and won’t want to be 0/3 against the “Know More …. Frisbee” crew. But, this time around, the QUTies are facing the reds away from their Nathan bunker. Advantage to the blue and oranges? Form-wise, both of these teams come into this match up following holiday-related losses on Easter Monday. Should be close.
>Our tip: Oh Yeahs by 1.
>>Apostles vs Yeast – Annerley 5B
Yeast continue their ‘newbies get 50% better every week’ surge and gave Mellow Yellow a big scare last week, only losing by a couple of points. Meanwhile, the Apostles took advantage of the University holidays and spanked the QUTies, while still having time to drop into the stately Brisbane Ultimate Blog mansion for a little tete a tete that will see publication very soon. The Apostles are as close to dominators as Division 3 has at the moment, but they may also get a surprise from the unconventional Yeast rising style, which defies description or submission. Still, form counts.
>Our tip: Apostles by 2.
>>Mellow Yellow vs Griffith Yee Hars – Griffith 1
Our well dressed spy who occasionally drops by the Mellow Yellow Speakeasy has noted that Fluxie and DaveC are now joining Rolo in discretely putting on the plastic macs and slipping out the back door each Thursday night, before returning dishevelled but smiling later in the evening for more pale ales and fine cheese. We await more reports of what this means to Monday nights. Meanwhile, the Yee Hars hope to recover from eating way to much frickin’ chocolate over Easter, by running the heck out of their yellower and greyer opponents.
>Our tip: Mellow Yellow by 3.
>>Griffith Go-Go’s vs Slipped Discs – Griffith 2
The Slipped Discs have spent the season so far flying under the radar … at least until last week when the carpet bombed the Oh Yeahs’ endzone into submission in a massive pyrotechnical display. Many of the Go-Go’s will have their new shirts, but will be wary that from a distance their logo looks quite like a target. They just need to remember that the target is attracting for Casey’s unnecessary hammers. The Go-Go’s have been putting together several new connections so far this season, and this game might be the one where they unleash.
>Our tip: Go-Go’s by 4.
** Division 2 –Ego**
Division 2 continues it's electric boogaloo.
>>Tsunami vs Heroes – Annerley 3A
It’s like the One Direction vs Slipknot.
>Our tip: Tsunami by 3.
>>What the Huck? vs Disc-Iples – Easts 2
WTH clearly don’t go away over Easter, while the Disciples sadly had to forfeit. The momentum seems to be with the Huckers, although the Iples have been known to stage some big comebacks.
>Our tip: WTH? by 2.
>>Baby Chimis vs Discheads – Easts 3
The Chimis haven’t been winning many lately, but thankfully are sensible enough to know that in Ultimate, style counts – at least that’s our interpretation of their plans for a new run of Chimis shorts (get your orders in now). Discheads seem full of nationals-bound players who don’t want to be injured.
>Our tip: Discheads by 5.
>> Bermuda Triangle vs Agent Orange – Gap 1
We recently asked one of the younger BT players what they thought on the season, and their answer was something like “Yes, we’re liking this winning thing.” And we think that’s going to continue against Agent Orange, despite half the Triangle having to make their way across the Saragasso from Moorooka to the Gap. The orange ones are statistically and unfortunately the lowest scoring team in the BUML (partly due to that missed game) – so expect to see Gav get out the big stick and wave it at his team in an effort to be calmer on offence. Tipping-wise though, its undefeated vs all-defeated so far this season.
>Our tip: Bermuda Triangle by 7.
** Division 1 – Superego**
A look at the table after everyone’s played everyone (aside from the missed Gap game between the UQ Lovers and the Ghost Who Walks – which many would suggest is straight forward to tip the winner of) and its relatively close, in particular due to a good win by the Drop Bears last week, and White Lantern getting a tie against the Poachers (who’d previously tied with the UQ Lovers – watch that clock more closely, Poachers!)
>>The Ghost Who Walks vs Poachers – Annerley 3B
As mentioned, the Poachers had high scoring draw last week against White Lantern – indeed, going on the stats, the Poachers are the highest scoring team in the entire BUML. Maybe its just that they don’t faff around between points? Or it could just be that they’re very very good. TGWW meanwhile continue to build their class from week to week. We here are waiting for them to slay a giant … is this the week? Probably not. Can someone send us a photo of the littlest Ghost (no doubt now getting quite big), in purple preferably?
>Our tip: Poachers by 6.
>>Dyspnoeics vs Drop Bears – Easts 1
Drop Bears entered the winners circle last week and have basked in the glory for seven days. But now comes the wake up call, as the Blue Ds are no doubt angry and confused about not being top of the table, like in that movie, Spaceballs. Let’s hope the other part of the double bill isn’t The Bad News Bears. It was apparently noted that there were a few too many photos of the self-promoting Dyspnoeics in the recently published History of BUML. Perhaps we can correct this with a photo of the Drop Bears next week?
>Our tip: Dyspnoeics by 4.
>>UQ Lovers vs White Lantern – Gap 2
Both of these teams have had a lot of tight games this season, but our expectation is the trip to The Gap should loosen them up a lot, leading to plenty of white hot loving! Can someone send us a photo of the White Lantern and UQ Lover strips for this season?
>Our tip: White Lantern by 1.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Go Read This
If you've been vaguely reading about the upcoming American Ultimate Disc League (with its emphasis within the Ulti-community of "it's a professional League!), then this Slate article is a good read.
Poll Thursday - Best of BUML, and Showing Your Appreciation
So here we are on Poll Thursday again (for the first time?).
Poll slightly serious is challenging, particularly for those who don't wish to take the obvious 'personal interest' approach. Which BUML Division is the best Division? Of course, once you get over the answer of "my division of course!", the question then becomes "Well, what makes a good division?". The closeness of the competition? The comradery between teams? The coordinated diversity - eg different coloured shirts? The sense of being in a division together?
Poll slightly silly is a big one. Its the end of the Final at Nationals, the biggest game ever. You see an opportunity to score, you throw .... and its a fkn awful piece of swill. "OMG!" your brain says to your hand "WTF are you doing?" Hand just says, "Hey man, I played the option you wanted ... just like last night with that person you picked up at the bar." Groin pipes up, "And it was fabbo ..." Anyway, as that conversation continues in that brief second, your team-mate somehow catches it, scores, and wins Nationals. What do you do next?
Poll slightly serious is challenging, particularly for those who don't wish to take the obvious 'personal interest' approach. Which BUML Division is the best Division? Of course, once you get over the answer of "my division of course!", the question then becomes "Well, what makes a good division?". The closeness of the competition? The comradery between teams? The coordinated diversity - eg different coloured shirts? The sense of being in a division together?
Poll slightly silly is a big one. Its the end of the Final at Nationals, the biggest game ever. You see an opportunity to score, you throw .... and its a fkn awful piece of swill. "OMG!" your brain says to your hand "WTF are you doing?" Hand just says, "Hey man, I played the option you wanted ... just like last night with that person you picked up at the bar." Groin pipes up, "And it was fabbo ..." Anyway, as that conversation continues in that brief second, your team-mate somehow catches it, scores, and wins Nationals. What do you do next?
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Thursday, April 05, 2012
History of BUML - A Long History!
During 2011, while I was Executive Officer of QUDA, I prepared a short history of BUML from 2004-2011. Most people I think have come across the highlights that were posted at http://buml.quda.org/hall-of-fame Alas, it never seemed finished and so didn't see the light of day. Until now!
Please enjoy a walk down memory lane. There are photos for those that can't be bothered reading.
How many seasons of BUML have YOU played?
Please enjoy a walk down memory lane. There are photos for those that can't be bothered reading.
How many seasons of BUML have YOU played?
Ye Olde Order Changeth!
From the Desk of JdR
Long time readers of the Brisbane Ultimate Blog may remember this post.
And here we are some years later, and I've resigned the job. I flagged the change with the QUDA Executive just after the AGM at the State Championships, and have now emailed all and sundry.
Time for the break that I was originally planning to have when I was finishing up all the AFDA Board stuff way back then!
I should write a big long look at what worked and didn't, who to thank, and all that. But, its time for a break. Maybe it'll all come out in dribs and drabs on your favourite blog. Maybe something else will happen. I must've done a reasonable job, as nobody really called 'check feet' that I can recall!
Anyway, keep on bloggin'.
Long time readers of the Brisbane Ultimate Blog may remember this post.
And here we are some years later, and I've resigned the job. I flagged the change with the QUDA Executive just after the AGM at the State Championships, and have now emailed all and sundry.
Time for the break that I was originally planning to have when I was finishing up all the AFDA Board stuff way back then!
I should write a big long look at what worked and didn't, who to thank, and all that. But, its time for a break. Maybe it'll all come out in dribs and drabs on your favourite blog. Maybe something else will happen. I must've done a reasonable job, as nobody really called 'check feet' that I can recall!
Anyway, keep on bloggin'.
BUML Team of the Week: The UQ Lovers
A lot could be written about the UQ Lovers. UQ are the oldest continuously existing Ultimate Club in Queensland, and it’s been said that something half of Queensland Ultimate over the last twenty years played for UQ at some time or other. BUML itself really only exists because UQ closed its fields for an extended period over 2003-4, making the scene bite the bullet and expand the places to play. There’s been a UQ team is most of the Monday night Mixed Leagues since early 2006, but the Club has only once held the virtual trophy aloft, winning the BUML11 Grand Final at the end of 2008.
Despite (or as a result of) all this history, UQ Ultimate is a story of change and renewal. Every semester new people arrive at University and decide to give Ultimate a go. But as far as Monday nights go, the current crop of Lovers looks very much like last year’s. So we decided to invite the delightful Megz and the also sort-of-delightful Goosey Jack to wander up from Oval 7 to the stately Brisbane Ultimate Mansion’s science lab to put on the white coats with the grass stains and tell us about their plans for the season.
Brisbane Ultimate Blog (BUB): Thanks for coming in students. Please place your books on the floor and your student identification card on the desk. You may have two sharpened HB pencils and a packet of polos for this session. Now, in 50 words of less, how’s the season looking for the UQ Lovers so far?
Megz: It started off in a bit of turmoil, as usual, it’s kind of a pain to get uni students to commit to anything. That said, despite assertions to the contrary, we have some promising new players, have brought some of our development players into the BUML team at last and as usual we are looking forward to ongoing improvement of our rookies - who are looking particularly athletic this year. A bunch of our girls transitioned to the club system for the first time and are looking fit and strong and confident. We will look to use our fitness and quick movement, learn some zen arts, and earn a place in the top two. (p.s. we have smartphones, tablets and boostjuice these days - pfft).
Jack: Aside from the trouble we had actually organising the team, the season is looking great so far. We have a couple of choice pick ups in the form of exchange students - American Micah and Saskatchewanian Annalise - and we have young Myles entering the fold as well (we saw his potential as the coach of the UQ women’s netball team at AUGs and poached him). On the women’s side we have seen HUGE improvement from everyone on the team as Megz said, all due to hard work over the Christmas break with Black Betty. Sam’s cutting like a machine and Bonnie’s confidence with throwing continues to improve, looking for break throws and hitting under options consistently. BW and Gref are as reliable as ever (i.e: relying on them to huck it to anyone that runs deep and being too lazy to pivot leading to many a turfed forehand)
BUB: Please answer the following multiple choice question. The most disturbing person on our team is: a) BW, b) Gref, c) Tomsteve or d) you.
Jack: I’m not one to cast nasturtiums, but it’s definitely Gref.
Megz: b) Gref - definitely.
BUB: Wow, Tomsteve must be slowing down with age. Ok, for five points - who’s actually been at UQ the longest?
Megz: Hmm... that’s a tough one... it has to be TomSteve or Gref... they were both here at least two years before me - since Gref left and came back though, I am going to say it must be TS.
Jack: Yep, definitely TS. Jmac likes to pretend that he’s still a Lover, but he only comes to hit on the new girls.
BUB: Score for Tomsteve. We know all the readers of the Brisbane Ultimate Blog love a bit of Tomsteve. Anyway, what was the story with no playing at the St Lucia Campus this year?
Jack: During one of the voodoo rituals which they seem to partake in almost weekly, (if the amount of chicken blood and feathers around the offices is any indication), they were compelled to close the fields in order to appease the AFL gods.
Megz: I heard something like “blah blah blah international cricket tournament blah blah blah”
BUB: The shaft, eh? Oh well. Moving on, Division One is full of very very good players. Compare and contrast – who do you expect to be playing in the Final at the end of the season?
Jack: We have yet to see what Drop Bears have to offer, they look like a solid team full of the who’s who of Brisbane Ultimate but I’m sure PAllen is doing them more harm than good. Our game against Poachers was one of the most fiercely fought games I’ve ever seen at BUML, I feel like they’re real contenders come the finals, some really big throwers on their team. White Lantern’s core of the Behrendorff brothers and big Seb Brown are looking good and have great chemistry, though they can sometimes get flustered with one another. In the season opening game against them they showcased some big hucks. They seem to have traded the controversial Chris Brown for Devon, and appear quite happy with the results. Honestly, I think the Ghost are going to have a pretty rough season, but they seem happy to stick it out and learn as much as they can.
Megz: I reckon Poachers are the dark horse this season - totally underrated... and although they generally play an all around game, with the addition of Abra and JMac, they basically have a get out of jail free card with those two and Kailin. They have a strong zone, with Dan Blacklock leading the charge and are a very adaptable team. Dyspnoeics are also a big threat, they have some great players, but are still missing some height and have a tendency to shoot themselves in the foot with a fairly predictable playing structure. Their female depth has improved this season with Nott and Kirsten though, so that will be a big advantage - though losing the calm of Suze is a bummer. I would predict one of those two and us (obviously) in the final, but it could really be any of the top 5 teams. I am a big fan of the more condensed 6 team structure for Division 1, and I am very glad that my pleas were heard by the BUML committee.
BUB: Well, yes, the BUMLOC loves a good pestering. You’ve both been with the Club for a long time – how did you originally get into Ultimate?
Megz: Lol. Jack has been at the club for like a year - it just SEEEMS like a long time. I have been at UQ for 3.5 years... fairly standard I guess (maybe even less given the large volume of engineers that play Ulti!). I really got into Ulti when i started playing at JCU, but I was introduced to it by some expats in Tanzania and instantly loved the combination of intensity and non-contact, and also the social aspect that mixed sport offers. When I got to UQ I was still pretty bad, and although my form goes up and down, I would like to think that i have evolved from one of the weakest players on the team, to one of the stronger players in my time at UQ, and there are lot of people from the club and elsewhere I have to thank for that.
Jack: I’ve only really been “with the club” for a year but I started playing at UQ’s beginner league WAAAAAAAAY back in 2010, and indeed played my very first tournament picking up with the mansion’s distinguished owner at Lovefest 2010 and took a huge grab on the last point of the day at timecap. Unfortunately it was the hard cap and I was just outside the endzone so I didn’t get to convert my first big play. It was then that I decided I would never again be contained by arbitary timecap restrictions and my love of Ultimate was born.
BUB: Agreed. Its always been the BUB's mantra to play to points, but if we must hurry up for scheduling purposes, then we at least finish the point we're on. Anyway, rant out. What’s the deal with Uni Games this year?
Jack: We’re actually hosting our own tournament with a much more sensible format (8 team Div1 are you serious AUS?) in order to finance what will be the largest ball pit in the southern hemisphere for myself, Gref and Bonnie’s new house. Sausages can only achieve so much...
After Nationals winds up we’re looking to get the UQ development squad underway, and we’re in the VERY early stages of exploring options for development in association with other Universities in Queensland. We’re about 1.25 Red Room sessions away from starting a google doc. in order to coordinate our efforts.
BUB: That means something, does it?
Jack: Yes. Action ACTion actION, baby.
Megz: As usual with Australian University Sport and Ultimate - who knows. Two Divisions is for sure, but nothing else is. We might have to play regional qualifiers, we might not - we’re hoping not, because we have a more development friendly alternative in the works, but we still prefer a qualification model over the tedious alternatives AUS have offered. There is still no Unis officer for AFDA - so if anyone has mad negotiation skillz, the patience of a saint, can stick to their guns whilst miraculously gaining concessions from an immovable object and a love of Unis ultimate - please volunteer... actually just 1 and 4 are required. Fingers crossed that we will have an official ex-Lover as coach (outcomes of negotiations TBA). We will be getting serious and having more fun with camp and training kicking off early, development squad coming out of the woodwork after nats, and a load of FUN-draiser activities to get new people involved/ make AUG’s more affordable, and a whole womens team again (at last!). Having redeemed ourselves this year, we are looking to field as competitive a team as possible, so IF ANYONE AWESOME IS A STUDENT AT UQ PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED.
BUB: Well, the vibes coming out of our sources within the administrative structures is that nobody is going to be playing Ultimate at Northern Uni Games this year, but its definitely there for 2013. On another note, may we inquire vaguely (just to see if we can trick you kinda) if the rumours are true?
Megz: Yes, Jack really does like 300 pound bitches, and that’s what the song is about.
Jack: I neither confirm nor deny my love for big booty bitches.
BUB: Wow. I’d never have guessed you had a thing for St Bernards.
Jack: That’s because you always see my on my best behaviour.
BUB: Now, you're the UQ 'Lovers' as they nicknamed. How about you say something nice about each other?
Jack: You first.
Megz: Jack’s Ultimate ability has increased exponentially since the day he started playing, due mostly to his own desire and commitment and he has been a dedicated club member since about minutes after he arrived. It’s awesome and we are totally proud of him (p.s. the Lovers, being all about love, say nice things about each other all the time, it’s one of the best things about the club).
Jack: Megs is the most enthusiastic Ultimate player and person I’ve ever had the pleasure of associating myself with. She’s always excited to do something cool and new and is always happy to teach the newbies. She also follows through with things, a lot of crazy ideas come out of the club’s late night red room/St Lucia Thai sessions and Megz manages to filter out the crap, identify the good stuff and make it happen. She’s super sick at ultimate too, the other day when we were playing 500 in the Great Court she boxed me out so hard I’m still seeing stars.
BUB: Anything else you’ve got for us?
Jack: UQ LOVERS #1 ALL OTHER TEAMS SUCK!!
Megz: To all the ex-Lovers out there, you’re missing out.
BUB: Well, I won't touch either of those suggestions with a bargepoll. Thanks again for coming in. I’ll sign your Jobseeker forms now. You can put the silverware back though.
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