Soft-Disc Ultimate: Pivot and Mark

An ultimate drill in groups of three in which the thrower must pivot on one foot to release the disc around a marker who counts out loud. Students practice pivoting, backhand throws to both sides, and no-contact marking.

How to play

1. Form 8 groups of three (one group of four if needed) with one soft disc per group and two cones 25 feet apart as the playing area (2 min).
2. Roles: thrower, marker, and receiver. The marker stands an arm's length from the thrower and counts slowly from 1 to 6; the receiver cuts to get open 15 to 25 feet away.
3. The thrower keeps one foot planted (pivot foot) and steps with the other to find a gap to the right or left of the marker, releasing before the count reaches 6.
4. Completed pass before 6 = 1 point for the group; a drop or reaching 6 = point for the marker. Rotate roles every 5 throws (10 min).
5. Final game: 4-on-4 on 60 × 40 ft fields with end zones, using the 6-count (8 min).

Rules

• The thrower may not walk with the disc, only pivot on the planted foot.
• The marker never touches the disc in the thrower's hand or wraps their arms around; stay one arm's length away.
• Only one player marks the thrower; no double teams.
• Safety: no diving for the disc, and call "Mine!" to avoid collisions.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: throws seated or from a wheelchair by rotating the trunk; the marker stands two arm's lengths away.
• Shy students: start as the receiver with a trusted partner as thrower.
• Lower skill level: may use a rubber ring or a larger, slower disc.

Learning goals

• Pivot on a planted foot to open a passing angle.
• Throw a backhand to both sides of the marker.
• Mark the thrower at a safe distance with no contact.

Equipment for a class of 25

• soft flying discs: 9
• cones: 24
• pinnies: 12

Teacher tip

Have the marker count slowly and out loud, because a rushed count freezes the thrower. Soft discs prevent face injuries, but still ban hard throws from closer than 10 feet.

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