Stall Count Out Loud: Mark and Throw Before Ten

Warm-up in groups of three that introduces Ultimate's ten-second stall count: a marker counts out loud while the thrower pivots and passes to the receiver. It gets legs and arms going while students internalize a key rule and how to apply it correctly.

How to play

1. In threes: one thrower, one marker and one receiver 8 m away. The teacher demonstrates how to count: "stalling, one, two..." at one number per second (1 min).
2. The marker counts to ten without moving; the thrower pivots to both sides and passes before four (2 min).
3. The marker now defends actively and the receiver works to get open; the thrower must release before eight (2 min).
4. Rotate roles every 6 passes so everyone counts, throws and receives (1 min).
5. Quick debrief: at what number did you start feeling the pressure? (2 min).

Rules

• The count starts with the word "stalling" and each number is said clearly, without speeding up.
• The marker stays one disc's width away from the thrower and does not touch their arms.
• If the count reaches ten, the disc goes to the marker with no argument.
• Groups stay at least 16 feet apart so passes do not cross.

Variations

Adaptations

• Hearing impairment: the marker also counts on raised fingers in front of the chest.
• Autism: always starts as receiver until they have watched two rounds, then chooses their first role.
• Ankle injury: plays marker without moving, using only arms and voice.

Learning goals

• Know and correctly apply the Ultimate stall count.
• Make passing decisions under time pressure.
• Accept the result of the count with good sportsmanship in a self-refereed game.

Equipment for a class of 25

• flying discs: 10
• cones: 10

Teacher tip

Many students count too fast: time one count and show them the difference. It leads straight into any game.

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