I still have lots of posts coming up this week though. Don't worry.
Here is my travel blog
http://steventrainor.blogspot.com/
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Talking with Trainor- Moses Rifkin
Nation,
Something special is happening out west.
Sockeye, the mens A team in the Emerald City (Seattle), just finished winning their 3rd UPA title in four years. Their roster is stacked with strong players from all over the country. These players have great experience already from their respective college teams, and they seem focused on holding their UPA title for many years. A second team, Voodoo, had many great performances last season and might possibly have joined their A team in Sarasota were it not for being stuck in the hardest qualifying section/region in the country. With Worlds 2008, it is important to focus on Sockeye. They will represent Team USA in the open division, and they will look take the title away from Canada.
I was fortunate to chat with Sockeye's very own Moses Rifkin. At age 28, Rifkin has accomplished much in the game. He's played for one of the greatest college programs (Brown), one of the greatest vertical stack teams (Death or Glory) and a great horizontal stack team (Sockeye). He has won everywhere.
Pictured: Moses Rifkin
Photo Courtesy: www.seattlesockeye.org and original photographer
___________________________________________________________________
At what age did you start playing? Who introduced you into the game?
I first played organized Ultimate when I was 14. Jamie Epstein, a player for Ozone (Atlanta women's team) and coach at my school, was the first person to teach me the basics of Ultimate, and the following year Mike Baccarini took over for her at Paideia.
You've had high level experience with teams that use both vertical and horizontal stack strategy. Conceptually, Do you prefer the horizontal stack or the vertical stack? Do you think new players need to be introduced to both?
I feel most comfortable in a vertical stack, but I think that's more a function of experience than of superiority.
I think Sockeye has a roster that makes horizontal stack offense a good fit for it, and DoG had a roster that made vertical stack a good fit for it. It feels to me now that horizontal stacks are harder to defend against, that vertical stacks are more easy to adjust to stop...but I also think that the dominance of vertical stacks gave rise to those ways of stopping them, which helped encourage the spread of horizontal stacks... In other words, I wouldn't be surprised if things swing back and forth.
I think that offensive cutting isn't so much about one stack or another, but general principals of finding space, making space, timing, being opportunistic, etc. I think introducing new players to both is more likely to teach them that there isn't one recipe for offense. At the same time, though, a lot of new players really do benefit from having a framework to start with. I guess it doesn't feel like it really matters one way or another, I think.
Who was/is the most important teammate coach from your Brown, DoG and Sockeye days?
Nathan Wicks demands that I say it was him.
That's an impossible question for me to answer, so let me just rattle off some thoughts that spring to mind. Mike Baccarini taught me much of what I still think about today as a player, and helped me and my teammates to fall in love with the sport at the s
ame time. Playing with my friends on Paideia clearly established Ultimate in my mind as being about community and teammates. My teammates at Brown, and Nathan, helped teach me how to compete to win. Playing with DoG was what turned me into the player I think I am today - it was a long-time dream to play with them and I feel incredibly fortunate to have played with that group of players. And playing with Sockeye has been one of the most _fun_ Ultimate experiences I've had.
So I know that's not what you were looking for, but that's how I look back on my ultimate days.
What's your best moment/experience in the sport?
Again, it's hard to say: my life as a player has gone through so many different stages, all of which were wonderful in the way that they were for who I was at that time. I guess if I had to pick one, it would be winning college nationals in 2000. I don't know if it was the best by any standard other than it was the one I was most singularly focused on for the season ahead of it, and so winning was as close as I've come to setting a goal and doing everything - absolutely everything - that I could to achieve it, and then achieving it. By that standard, it was the best.
A strange highlight for me was losing in the semis to Furious George in 2003. It was an unbelievable game - a total of 5 turnovers, and just one in the second half. I felt proud of how I'd played, and how we'd played, and to lose a game like that taught me a lot about why I play the game. It wasn't fun to lose...but it did help me get some perspective on Ultimate and what my goals really are.
What's your worst moment/experience in the sport?
I think losing to NC State in the semis of college nationals in Boulder in 1999. It was deeply, deeply emotional, and I don't think I've ever felt so bad after a game. I had plenty to think about for the next 364 days leading up to 2000.
What's your best ultimate skill?
Does teammatesmanship count? I think I'm a smart, intuitive cutter - not the fastest, not the best with the disc, but I have a knack for helping offenses to function more smoothly. I'm proud of that.
What are you working on this off season?
Getting stronger and fitter while staying healthy.
Obama, Hilary, or McCain?
I'd rather not say - not because I feel sensitive about it, just because I keep those things to myself.
How does Sockeye convince players to move from all over to play in Seattle?
We don't, as far as I know. It may seem that way from the outside, but there's no effort that I've seen to convince these folks to come here. It's also worth mentioning that for every Ron and Tim and Skip and me, there are amazing players on Sockeye (and waiting in the wings) who are the products of the Seattle-area college, high school and middle school scene.
How does Mose Rifkin enjoy Seattle weather?
Moses Rifkin is learning to enjoy Seattle weather. I'm learning to be patient through the winter, to stay active, to get outside when it's nice, and to invest in plenty of tea and a nice pair of slippers. And when it's nice out, Seattle is spectacularly beautiful. So it's going well now, which is a shift from the last few winters.
How does the team manage so many stars, and to a certain extent, egos?
The Sockeye team culture that I joined three seasons ago was shockingly close-knit. This is a team that works very hard, but also has a lot of fun - pure, goofball, stupid fun - and really cares for one another as teammates and friends. That's a wonderful thing, and I think it renders the egos either irrelevant or at least quiet. I think there's a great competitiveness that people share, everyone wanting to be the one to make the play when the opportunity arises and to push one another to make it, but I think everyone seems to buy into the team mentality.
That being said, I think our defensive and offensive strategies are uniquely suited to the roster that we have. It's an amazing set of tools that we get to work with, and I think our approach to playing tries to use that as an asset instead of a detriment or a non-factor.
How would your teammates describe you?
I hope they'd describe me as a good teammate, as a hard worker, and as a solid, strong player. I think they would. They'd also say something embarrassing in the process of doing so.
Who is the leader of the team?
Another unusual thing about Sockeye, I think, is that there are different leaders at different times. We have four captains, as well as a host of other people involved: running drills, speaking in huddles, organizing things, mapping out our season's direction. So I don't think there's a single answer, which isn't necessarily a good or bad thing but has worked well for us.
What were your thoughts on UPA Finals 2007? What teams surprised you?
I don't really know what to say about this. It was neat to see GOAT do so well, as well as the other typical surprises etc. I was sad to see Furious struggle so much with injury, and I thought that Jam and Johnny Bravo were all exceptional teams.
Do you have any political thoughts regarding the UPA and the progress of ultimate?
Not really. I don't pay as close attention to the inner workings of the UPA as maybe I should, but I appreciate the difficulty of the task that they're facing: being a variety of things to a variety of constituencies, all of which have very strong opinions about a sport that they dearly love. On a selfish level, there's so much work that goes on behind the scenes to produce the Ultimate experiences I have, and I'm grateful for that.
Will Team USA (open) beat Canada at Worlds 2008?
We're planning to.
How will Sockeye select team USA? Are there lessons learned from the Condors in 2004?
That's still up in the air. With the addition of the Dream Cup, this season is a strange one: we started training in January, are going to an international tournament in March, will train to compete in a World Championship in August...and then set our sights on Nationals. It's a great problem to have, but a challenge nonetheless. We're still working out how to choose our team as a result.
Will worlds gold mean more than a UPA title?
No, I don't think so. It means something different. It is, of course, pretty amazing to put on a jersey that says USA and think about what that means. So winning gold on the world stage would be a lifelong highlight for sure.
What is your take on the Buzz Bullets from Japan? Do they bring different strategy/tactics to the game than North American opponents?
They are a tremendous team. They bring a jaw-dropping level of skill and athleticism, and play with extraordinary heart. Strategy-wise, they do operate differently than most teams we encounter - a different set of throws and cuts to defend, a different approach to zone defense which makes throws that might seem open suddenly not - and that's a cool problem to try to wrap our minds around. We're all really looking forward to playing them in a few weeks and then hopefully again at Worlds.
Something special is happening out west.
Sockeye, the mens A team in the Emerald City (Seattle), just finished winning their 3rd UPA title in four years. Their roster is stacked with strong players from all over the country. These players have great experience already from their respective college teams, and they seem focused on holding their UPA title for many years. A second team, Voodoo, had many great performances last season and might possibly have joined their A team in Sarasota were it not for being stuck in the hardest qualifying section/region in the country. With Worlds 2008, it is important to focus on Sockeye. They will represent Team USA in the open division, and they will look take the title away from Canada.
I was fortunate to chat with Sockeye's very own Moses Rifkin. At age 28, Rifkin has accomplished much in the game. He's played for one of the greatest college programs (Brown), one of the greatest vertical stack teams (Death or Glory) and a great horizontal stack team (Sockeye). He has won everywhere.
Pictured: Moses RifkinPhoto Courtesy: www.seattlesockeye.org and original photographer
At what age did you start playing? Who introduced you into the game?
I first played organized Ultimate when I was 14. Jamie Epstein, a player for Ozone (Atlanta women's team) and coach at my school, was the first person to teach me the basics of Ultimate, and the following year Mike Baccarini took over for her at Paideia.
You've had high level experience with teams that use both vertical and horizontal stack strategy. Conceptually, Do you prefer the horizontal stack or the vertical stack? Do you think new players need to be introduced to both?
I feel most comfortable in a vertical stack, but I think that's more a function of experience than of superiority.
I think Sockeye has a roster that makes horizontal stack offense a good fit for it, and DoG had a roster that made vertical stack a good fit for it. It feels to me now that horizontal stacks are harder to defend against, that vertical stacks are more easy to adjust to stop...but I also think that the dominance of vertical stacks gave rise to those ways of stopping them, which helped encourage the spread of horizontal stacks... In other words, I wouldn't be surprised if things swing back and forth.
I think that offensive cutting isn't so much about one stack or another, but general principals of finding space, making space, timing, being opportunistic, etc. I think introducing new players to both is more likely to teach them that there isn't one recipe for offense. At the same time, though, a lot of new players really do benefit from having a framework to start with. I guess it doesn't feel like it really matters one way or another, I think.
Who was/is the most important teammate coach from your Brown, DoG and Sockeye days?
Nathan Wicks demands that I say it was him.
That's an impossible question for me to answer, so let me just rattle off some thoughts that spring to mind. Mike Baccarini taught me much of what I still think about today as a player, and helped me and my teammates to fall in love with the sport at the s
ame time. Playing with my friends on Paideia clearly established Ultimate in my mind as being about community and teammates. My teammates at Brown, and Nathan, helped teach me how to compete to win. Playing with DoG was what turned me into the player I think I am today - it was a long-time dream to play with them and I feel incredibly fortunate to have played with that group of players. And playing with Sockeye has been one of the most _fun_ Ultimate experiences I've had.So I know that's not what you were looking for, but that's how I look back on my ultimate days.
What's your best moment/experience in the sport?
Again, it's hard to say: my life as a player has gone through so many different stages, all of which were wonderful in the way that they were for who I was at that time. I guess if I had to pick one, it would be winning college nationals in 2000. I don't know if it was the best by any standard other than it was the one I was most singularly focused on for the season ahead of it, and so winning was as close as I've come to setting a goal and doing everything - absolutely everything - that I could to achieve it, and then achieving it. By that standard, it was the best.
A strange highlight for me was losing in the semis to Furious George in 2003. It was an unbelievable game - a total of 5 turnovers, and just one in the second half. I felt proud of how I'd played, and how we'd played, and to lose a game like that taught me a lot about why I play the game. It wasn't fun to lose...but it did help me get some perspective on Ultimate and what my goals really are.
What's your worst moment/experience in the sport?
I think losing to NC State in the semis of college nationals in Boulder in 1999. It was deeply, deeply emotional, and I don't think I've ever felt so bad after a game. I had plenty to think about for the next 364 days leading up to 2000.
What's your best ultimate skill?
Does teammatesmanship count? I think I'm a smart, intuitive cutter - not the fastest, not the best with the disc, but I have a knack for helping offenses to function more smoothly. I'm proud of that.
What are you working on this off season?
Getting stronger and fitter while staying healthy.
Obama, Hilary, or McCain?
I'd rather not say - not because I feel sensitive about it, just because I keep those things to myself.
How does Sockeye convince players to move from all over to play in Seattle?
We don't, as far as I know. It may seem that way from the outside, but there's no effort that I've seen to convince these folks to come here. It's also worth mentioning that for every Ron and Tim and Skip and me, there are amazing players on Sockeye (and waiting in the wings) who are the products of the Seattle-area college, high school and middle school scene.
How does Mose Rifkin enjoy Seattle weather?
Moses Rifkin is learning to enjoy Seattle weather. I'm learning to be patient through the winter, to stay active, to get outside when it's nice, and to invest in plenty of tea and a nice pair of slippers. And when it's nice out, Seattle is spectacularly beautiful. So it's going well now, which is a shift from the last few winters.
How does the team manage so many stars, and to a certain extent, egos?
The Sockeye team culture that I joined three seasons ago was shockingly close-knit. This is a team that works very hard, but also has a lot of fun - pure, goofball, stupid fun - and really cares for one another as teammates and friends. That's a wonderful thing, and I think it renders the egos either irrelevant or at least quiet. I think there's a great competitiveness that people share, everyone wanting to be the one to make the play when the opportunity arises and to push one another to make it, but I think everyone seems to buy into the team mentality.
That being said, I think our defensive and offensive strategies are uniquely suited to the roster that we have. It's an amazing set of tools that we get to work with, and I think our approach to playing tries to use that as an asset instead of a detriment or a non-factor.
How would your teammates describe you?
I hope they'd describe me as a good teammate, as a hard worker, and as a solid, strong player. I think they would. They'd also say something embarrassing in the process of doing so.
Who is the leader of the team?
Another unusual thing about Sockeye, I think, is that there are different leaders at different times. We have four captains, as well as a host of other people involved: running drills, speaking in huddles, organizing things, mapping out our season's direction. So I don't think there's a single answer, which isn't necessarily a good or bad thing but has worked well for us.
What were your thoughts on UPA Finals 2007? What teams surprised you?
I don't really know what to say about this. It was neat to see GOAT do so well, as well as the other typical surprises etc. I was sad to see Furious struggle so much with injury, and I thought that Jam and Johnny Bravo were all exceptional teams.
Do you have any political thoughts regarding the UPA and the progress of ultimate?
Not really. I don't pay as close attention to the inner workings of the UPA as maybe I should, but I appreciate the difficulty of the task that they're facing: being a variety of things to a variety of constituencies, all of which have very strong opinions about a sport that they dearly love. On a selfish level, there's so much work that goes on behind the scenes to produce the Ultimate experiences I have, and I'm grateful for that.
Will Team USA (open) beat Canada at Worlds 2008?
We're planning to.
How will Sockeye select team USA? Are there lessons learned from the Condors in 2004?
That's still up in the air. With the addition of the Dream Cup, this season is a strange one: we started training in January, are going to an international tournament in March, will train to compete in a World Championship in August...and then set our sights on Nationals. It's a great problem to have, but a challenge nonetheless. We're still working out how to choose our team as a result.
Will worlds gold mean more than a UPA title?
No, I don't think so. It means something different. It is, of course, pretty amazing to put on a jersey that says USA and think about what that means. So winning gold on the world stage would be a lifelong highlight for sure.
What is your take on the Buzz Bullets from Japan? Do they bring different strategy/tactics to the game than North American opponents?
They are a tremendous team. They bring a jaw-dropping level of skill and athleticism, and play with extraordinary heart. Strategy-wise, they do operate differently than most teams we encounter - a different set of throws and cuts to defend, a different approach to zone defense which makes throws that might seem open suddenly not - and that's a cool problem to try to wrap our minds around. We're all really looking forward to playing them in a few weeks and then hopefully again at Worlds.
Off Season VideoTrailer - All Work, Little Play
Nation,
Here is an excellent video that captures some of the weekly training performed by the Phoenix/Firebird program.
Here is a version that is a little longer.
Video courtesy of Yvan Abel. This is not the finished product, and I can't wait for the final showing!
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Who puts the Spirit in Ultimate?
Nation,
Here's some early Friday fun.
I'm absolutely psyched to see the new Will Ferrell movie. Semi-Pro features Ferrell's newest character, Jackie Moon, and he's straight up afro-tastic. I don't even care if the plot sucks, or if he repeats the same jokes. He has a good formula (Anchorman, Talledega Nights, Blades of Glory) and he sticks to it.
Giddy about the premiere tonight, I started to think of friends of mine that still dress like they are in the seventies. Of course, my mind shifted to my ultimate friends. Ultimate friends are sometimes like post modern furniture (according to Moe Szyslak of The Simpsons)- "weird for the sake of being weird". I know funny clothes does not equal spirit, but there are many cases where the most zany do make their games fun/spirited affairs.
My questions to you are as follows
Gavin Thompson has been playing for over 15 years in Ottawa and going to
nationals for almost as long. He has never missed a tournament party. He always wears something so outlandish to the field and the party that he is remembered. He also plays the game with a lot of witty talk and spirit/fairness. He'll be the first to tell you about his legendary throws and his zone busting abilities as well as his deficiencies. He wants to donate his arm to a younger more fit athlete, and can't wait till science catches up to his generosity.
Still not convinced? The man has his own rule in a 3500+ member league
I admit that I am very serious about the game and my game. But having the chance to play with these people, I secretly hope that ultimate can keep the characters with the athletes.
JACKIE MOON!
Here's some early Friday fun.
I'm absolutely psyched to see the new Will Ferrell movie. Semi-Pro features Ferrell's newest character, Jackie Moon, and he's straight up afro-tastic. I don't even care if the plot sucks, or if he repeats the same jokes. He has a good formula (Anchorman, Talledega Nights, Blades of Glory) and he sticks to it.
Giddy about the premiere tonight, I started to think of friends of mine that still dress like they are in the seventies. Of course, my mind shifted to my ultimate friends. Ultimate friends are sometimes like post modern furniture (according to Moe Szyslak of The Simpsons)- "weird for the sake of being weird". I know funny clothes does not equal spirit, but there are many cases where the most zany do make their games fun/spirited affairs.
My questions to you are as follows
- Who in your city has the most spirit?
- Who in the following divisions would you say have the most spirit/fun within your country
- Open
- Women's
- Mixed
Gavin Thompson has been playing for over 15 years in Ottawa and going to
nationals for almost as long. He has never missed a tournament party. He always wears something so outlandish to the field and the party that he is remembered. He also plays the game with a lot of witty talk and spirit/fairness. He'll be the first to tell you about his legendary throws and his zone busting abilities as well as his deficiencies. He wants to donate his arm to a younger more fit athlete, and can't wait till science catches up to his generosity.Still not convinced? The man has his own rule in a 3500+ member league
The Gavin T. Rule
Any player wishing to play naked must first secure the permission of both Captains.
Gavin Thompson Pre Party Outfit- Northern Flights 2005 Photo Source: Ultypics.com and Derek Hodgson
Lindsay Bales from Montreal is another example of zany costumes and great spirit. A fixture in women's and coed ultimate for many years, I've personally organized teams and begged her to come play with us. Yeah, she's a great handler, but we also wanted the friendliness and leadership she can bring, even when surrounded by strangers. The woman did a naked keg stand back in the day and tells people about it fondly to this day.I admit that I am very serious about the game and my game. But having the chance to play with these people, I secretly hope that ultimate can keep the characters with the athletes.
JACKIE MOON!
Lindsay Bales- Layout for Life 2004
Photo: John Tajima and Ultypics.com
Photo: John Tajima and Ultypics.com
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Talking with Trainor: Andy Stewart
Nation,
Ottawa Open Ultimate has received a lot of attention in the past two years regarding their commitment to fitness and their team fitness levels.
The reason for this improvement is due to one man- Andy Stewart. S
tewart, the strength coach of 5 time national university basketball champion Carleton Ravens, Olympic athletes, and national level athletes in many sports, has set aside time each month in the summer to introduce ultimate players to serious conditioning and training. It has been an eye opening experience for many. We don't deserve him, and that's why we need and want him.
The sad news is that Ottawa ultimate, and many ultimate players across the country, have a lot to learn about their bodies and about sport specific training. I include myself in this group.
Here is an interview with the man my teammates and I respect greatly and curse all at the same time. I think his knowledge and leadership skills really stand out. His contact information is listed below.
Andy Stewart
stewarta@rogers.com
Open Sessions: Saturdays, 2:30 at the Douvris Martial Arts Center
SPT
___________________________________________________________________
That’s a very difficult question as I haven’t had the opportunity to test athletes in head to head and/or empirically/statistically relevant situations.
That caveat aside, the Ultimate players I have worked with are improving from training and athletic performance perspectives; they are improving their nutrition, getting smart, and trying powerlifting, cross-training – in essence they are doing all the right things. And it shows. It shows in their appearance, their athletic & on-field performance and in their positive outlooks (positive gains, from smart training, usually lead to positive outlooks).
Ultimate, as you know, requires a combination of athleticism & skills that are found in sports such as basketball, football and soccer. This includes aerobic and anaerobic system capacity with less focus on overall power – however intermittent sprints/jumps require optimal levels of burst speed, lateral quickness and leaping ability. If I compare to many of the national and Olympic level athletes I have worked with – it is on these athletic traits where I see a divide (but these cross-level comparisons may not be the most appropriate).
The primary differences are in due to ‘natural’ athleticism and years (often over a decade) of elite training/coaching and competition. By natural athleticism I mean the basic genetic athletic predisposition – such as natural speed (sprinting), lateral quickness and agility (stop/start), explosiveness (e.g. vertical leap) and raw power/strength. This translates to athletes that can run faster and jump higher/longer, change direction more quickly and more often. Good news is that through smart work, focus and nutrition you can force adaptations – you can become a better ‘natural athlete’.
As Ultimate gains in popularity several thing will happen - more competitive level athletes will join, more competitive training programs will be followed (year over year)– and a rising tide lifts all boats if you will. Increasing challenge, focus and competition will require more athleticism! Check out the NBA, tennis, heck even ping pong athlete of old – it is a natural progression for such a young sport. In Ultimate, the skills components given their precision and timing, also require sport specific skill sets including visual acuity and tracking, proprioception (think balance), muscle memory, footwork, hand eye coordination and reaction/anticipation etc. These are often overlooked when people think fitness.
What are some of the most important muscles for performing on the ultimate field?
Wow… legs, core… What isn’t?
To identify muscles I look at purposeful performance. Ultimate makes use of anaerobic and aerobic energy systems and the focus (muscular-wise) is clearly on the legs as the engines of athletic performance. The quads/glutes/hams/calves provide the basis for footwork, explosiveness, agility, quickness and are the primary movers in the anaerobic (sprints) and endurance aspects of the sport. They are called on for maximal power (vertical/long jumps) and for positional flexibility (marking/tracing). Traditionally, individuals who ‘like to play’ but don’t train the physical components enough (perhaps like highly skilled handlers) end up neglecting their endurance training, sprint training, plyometric and SAQ. The result is a lower possible output on the Ultimate field. The CORE then becomes incredibly important – as the foundation of movement is critical to the over stability of the athlete in motion. The upper body is clearly required for throwing skill development, efficiency and effectiveness.
However, the ultimate player does need not be bulky – rather explosive and lean. Great dexterity and hand-eye coordination also lend themselves to sport specific performance – what good is the fastest wide receiver if he has no hands? And that every player has to be a QB in effect! What muscles are most commonly weak in ultimate players? In my experience, the athletes (collectively) have started out at a lower experience level in overall competitive athletic training. They have missed out on years of sport-specific powerlifting, plyometric, footwork, SAQ, resistance training – and so are generally (and I am really generalizing here) weaker in overall athleticism in the legs. Upper body comparisons are not valuable.
Good news again is that now is the right time to change it! So much scientifically proven/validated information that easily accessible, so many committed athletes to learn from etc. – it’s all out there to help the athletes that want to be helped!
Who's the best Ultimate athlete you've seen?
I have had the opportunity of seeing several quintessential Ultimate athletes – and picking one doesn’t do them all justice. Colin Green comes to mind, in Ottawa, as the type of athlete that best exemplifies my vision of an Ultimate athlete. And, he most similar to the athletes I train from high-level competitive basketball à quick, agile, powerful, explosive - complimented by natural height and length, and bolstered by determination and a kick ass work ethic. I have had the pleasure of training Colin at the Dojo and on the field.
What are your strongest and weakest traits as an athlete personally and how does that affect your leadership style?
Interesting question… As an athlete, I have always been strong and more powerful (these are mesomorphic qualities – I gain muscle mass, strength and power quite quickly when I train). In my years of basketball, I was considered hard-working, typically in-shape and actually quite aggressive. Early on I was probably too aggressive for my own good. My weaknesses, physically (for my sport) were in being too short, not long enough, having poor flexibility and I had sport specific weaknesses (no left hand!). There are so many ‘mental’ aspects to sport, training and competition - occasionally these were areas of strength and weakness for me.
Leadership style – I believe I am a social communicator first and drill sergeant second. I see my role as a motivator – to inspire and challenge people (far to many people create barriers for themselves, and fail to overcome them because of weaknesses of the will and the mind!!). Authenticity and sincerity are critical in pushing people to blow threw their self-imposed limitations (and a bit of knowledge). Most importantly, I find that I have been very lucky to work with committed, driven and hard-working people. (If you’ve been to the Dojo, you understand. It is not for the faint of heart). I find that the athletes internal motivators are often more important than my leadership style.
If I had to psychoanalyze – I’d guess that my strengths support a healthy self-confidence while understanding my weaknesses (and working on them) gives me ‘athletic empathy’ and balance.
What are some of the most frustrating things when training athletes?
Things that drive me bananas:
First and foremost – ignorant athletes – individuals who lack respect for themselves, teammates, opponents, referees and for the game(s) they play. I have very little patience for ignorance… A healthy ego, aggressive style, even win at all costs attitude I can understand and manage – but overall ignorant behavior frustrates me!
The athlete that ‘doesn’t care’ or is defeatist comes in next… You know, the nice person who doesn’t believe in themselves? Can’t get past go – to even start towards self-improvement. I find these people to be a challenge, I enjoy helping them break free, but I have seen some that never believe – and it’s frustrating to see them waste their emotional time…
What are some of the most satisfying rewards training athletes?
There are to many to count… And it has less to do with ‘winning’ and more to do with the journey, the challenges and individual successes. I have truly enjoyed working with Ultimate athletes over the last two years. Making new friends, watching as people blow through personal barriers, achieve personal bests (athletically, aesthetically). I believe that everyone is capable of greatness – if they believe in themselves and have the will to work hard. I have had the wonderful opportunity and pleasure to partake in athletes’ quests for excellence. It is an honour… It’s not about me, but about seeing how people strive, challenge themselves, unite as a team or as friends towards common and individual goals.
The atmosphere that Ultimate players bring to the Dojo – friendly, interactive, supportive while at the same time motivated, with intensity - the desire to be challenged and to challenge with a kick ass work ethic – it motivates and inspires me all the time.
If you could give one piece of advice to all ultimate players, it would be...?
So very cliché – but I always recommend people get educated, get fit and play your sport… Work on your weaknesses and build on your strengths. More specifically though:
Ottawa Open Ultimate has received a lot of attention in the past two years regarding their commitment to fitness and their team fitness levels.
The reason for this improvement is due to one man- Andy Stewart. S
tewart, the strength coach of 5 time national university basketball champion Carleton Ravens, Olympic athletes, and national level athletes in many sports, has set aside time each month in the summer to introduce ultimate players to serious conditioning and training. It has been an eye opening experience for many. We don't deserve him, and that's why we need and want him.The sad news is that Ottawa ultimate, and many ultimate players across the country, have a lot to learn about their bodies and about sport specific training. I include myself in this group.
Andy Stewart with Ultimate Athlete Cheryl Wadasinghe
Dedicating myself this off season to an average of 2-3 workouts per week at Andy's dojo sessions, I realize that a VERY GOOD fitness guru is worth their weight in gold. You have to be able to trust your trainer for information on programs and nutrition as they relate to you personally. You need someone to push you when the going gets tough. You need someone that makes you buy in and tells you what you don't want to hear as much as the stuff you do.Here is an interview with the man my teammates and I respect greatly and curse all at the same time. I think his knowledge and leadership skills really stand out. His contact information is listed below.
Andy Stewart
stewarta@rogers.com
Open Sessions: Saturdays, 2:30 at the Douvris Martial Arts Center
SPT
___________________________________________________________________
Compare the level of fitness of competitive Ultimate Players to those of the other sports you work with. Honestly, how big is the divide?
That’s a very difficult question as I haven’t had the opportunity to test athletes in head to head and/or empirically/statistically relevant situations.
That caveat aside, the Ultimate players I have worked with are improving from training and athletic performance perspectives; they are improving their nutrition, getting smart, and trying powerlifting, cross-training – in essence they are doing all the right things. And it shows. It shows in their appearance, their athletic & on-field performance and in their positive outlooks (positive gains, from smart training, usually lead to positive outlooks).
Ultimate, as you know, requires a combination of athleticism & skills that are found in sports such as basketball, football and soccer. This includes aerobic and anaerobic system capacity with less focus on overall power – however intermittent sprints/jumps require optimal levels of burst speed, lateral quickness and leaping ability. If I compare to many of the national and Olympic level athletes I have worked with – it is on these athletic traits where I see a divide (but these cross-level comparisons may not be the most appropriate).
The primary differences are in due to ‘natural’ athleticism and years (often over a decade) of elite training/coaching and competition. By natural athleticism I mean the basic genetic athletic predisposition – such as natural speed (sprinting), lateral quickness and agility (stop/start), explosiveness (e.g. vertical leap) and raw power/strength. This translates to athletes that can run faster and jump higher/longer, change direction more quickly and more often. Good news is that through smart work, focus and nutrition you can force adaptations – you can become a better ‘natural athlete’.
As Ultimate gains in popularity several thing will happen - more competitive level athletes will join, more competitive training programs will be followed (year over year)– and a rising tide lifts all boats if you will. Increasing challenge, focus and competition will require more athleticism! Check out the NBA, tennis, heck even ping pong athlete of old – it is a natural progression for such a young sport. In Ultimate, the skills components given their precision and timing, also require sport specific skill sets including visual acuity and tracking, proprioception (think balance), muscle memory, footwork, hand eye coordination and reaction/anticipation etc. These are often overlooked when people think fitness.
What are some of the most important muscles for performing on the ultimate field?
Wow… legs, core… What isn’t?
To identify muscles I look at purposeful performance. Ultimate makes use of anaerobic and aerobic energy systems and the focus (muscular-wise) is clearly on the legs as the engines of athletic performance. The quads/glutes/hams/calves provide the basis for footwork, explosiveness, agility, quickness and are the primary movers in the anaerobic (sprints) and endurance aspects of the sport. They are called on for maximal power (vertical/long jumps) and for positional flexibility (marking/tracing). Traditionally, individuals who ‘like to play’ but don’t train the physical components enough (perhaps like highly skilled handlers) end up neglecting their endurance training, sprint training, plyometric and SAQ. The result is a lower possible output on the Ultimate field. The CORE then becomes incredibly important – as the foundation of movement is critical to the over stability of the athlete in motion. The upper body is clearly required for throwing skill development, efficiency and effectiveness.
However, the ultimate player does need not be bulky – rather explosive and lean. Great dexterity and hand-eye coordination also lend themselves to sport specific performance – what good is the fastest wide receiver if he has no hands? And that every player has to be a QB in effect! What muscles are most commonly weak in ultimate players? In my experience, the athletes (collectively) have started out at a lower experience level in overall competitive athletic training. They have missed out on years of sport-specific powerlifting, plyometric, footwork, SAQ, resistance training – and so are generally (and I am really generalizing here) weaker in overall athleticism in the legs. Upper body comparisons are not valuable.
Good news again is that now is the right time to change it! So much scientifically proven/validated information that easily accessible, so many committed athletes to learn from etc. – it’s all out there to help the athletes that want to be helped!
Who's the best Ultimate athlete you've seen?
I have had the opportunity of seeing several quintessential Ultimate athletes – and picking one doesn’t do them all justice. Colin Green comes to mind, in Ottawa, as the type of athlete that best exemplifies my vision of an Ultimate athlete. And, he most similar to the athletes I train from high-level competitive basketball à quick, agile, powerful, explosive - complimented by natural height and length, and bolstered by determination and a kick ass work ethic. I have had the pleasure of training Colin at the Dojo and on the field.
Colin Green Of GOAT (Black Hat)
CUC 2007 Championship Game
CUC 2007 Championship Game
What are your strongest and weakest traits as an athlete personally and how does that affect your leadership style?
Interesting question… As an athlete, I have always been strong and more powerful (these are mesomorphic qualities – I gain muscle mass, strength and power quite quickly when I train). In my years of basketball, I was considered hard-working, typically in-shape and actually quite aggressive. Early on I was probably too aggressive for my own good. My weaknesses, physically (for my sport) were in being too short, not long enough, having poor flexibility and I had sport specific weaknesses (no left hand!). There are so many ‘mental’ aspects to sport, training and competition - occasionally these were areas of strength and weakness for me.
Leadership style – I believe I am a social communicator first and drill sergeant second. I see my role as a motivator – to inspire and challenge people (far to many people create barriers for themselves, and fail to overcome them because of weaknesses of the will and the mind!!). Authenticity and sincerity are critical in pushing people to blow threw their self-imposed limitations (and a bit of knowledge). Most importantly, I find that I have been very lucky to work with committed, driven and hard-working people. (If you’ve been to the Dojo, you understand. It is not for the faint of heart). I find that the athletes internal motivators are often more important than my leadership style.
If I had to psychoanalyze – I’d guess that my strengths support a healthy self-confidence while understanding my weaknesses (and working on them) gives me ‘athletic empathy’ and balance.
What are some of the most frustrating things when training athletes?
Things that drive me bananas:
- Laziness and complacency
- Dealing with highly-skilled poorly conditioned athletes with healthy egos and an inability to take constructive suggestions
- People who eat like shit, drink too much, smoke too much, don’t sleep and can’t figure out why they don’t see gains in their training!
- Athletes who can’t ‘slow down’ – overtrain and hurt themselves
- Trying to get athletes to ‘buy in’ – some people go on trust, others need to be convinced over a lonnngggggg period of time.
First and foremost – ignorant athletes – individuals who lack respect for themselves, teammates, opponents, referees and for the game(s) they play. I have very little patience for ignorance… A healthy ego, aggressive style, even win at all costs attitude I can understand and manage – but overall ignorant behavior frustrates me!
The athlete that ‘doesn’t care’ or is defeatist comes in next… You know, the nice person who doesn’t believe in themselves? Can’t get past go – to even start towards self-improvement. I find these people to be a challenge, I enjoy helping them break free, but I have seen some that never believe – and it’s frustrating to see them waste their emotional time…
What are some of the most satisfying rewards training athletes?
There are to many to count… And it has less to do with ‘winning’ and more to do with the journey, the challenges and individual successes. I have truly enjoyed working with Ultimate athletes over the last two years. Making new friends, watching as people blow through personal barriers, achieve personal bests (athletically, aesthetically). I believe that everyone is capable of greatness – if they believe in themselves and have the will to work hard. I have had the wonderful opportunity and pleasure to partake in athletes’ quests for excellence. It is an honour… It’s not about me, but about seeing how people strive, challenge themselves, unite as a team or as friends towards common and individual goals.
The atmosphere that Ultimate players bring to the Dojo – friendly, interactive, supportive while at the same time motivated, with intensity - the desire to be challenged and to challenge with a kick ass work ethic – it motivates and inspires me all the time.
If you could give one piece of advice to all ultimate players, it would be...?
So very cliché – but I always recommend people get educated, get fit and play your sport… Work on your weaknesses and build on your strengths. More specifically though:
- Nutrition for performance (get educated)
- Train for performance (get a trainer, work with teammates)
- Ask questions
- Set goals and plan plan plan!!!!
- Mental training (for competitive athletes)
- Challenge yourself.
- Take chances
- Get advice and constructive criticism.
Personal Update
Nation,
I usually don't make this site about me. I like to focus on the game itself, and I valu
e serious topics that other people can relate to themselves. Thus I won't tell you about every club practice, my trips to the grocery store or anything of that nature unless it may make you laugh/learn.
I'm taking an 8 month position with the Canadian Olympic Committee starting tomorrow, focusing on Olympic Games Preparaton regarding the Bejing Olympics. I'll still be working on contracts with the Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance and the Canada Games Council. Needless to say, I'm pretty excited about the new opportunity. It might open many doors.
I am also happy to say that I've accepted an invitation to join the Board of Directors for the Canadian Ultimate Players Association. I will go on reco
rd as saying that our national body has failed to organize and develop our sport as well as it possibly could. We have a new executive director and there appears to be a desire for change. I hope to help CUPA change the way things are done, so that it can work harder and smarter, and we can develop ultimate, build stakeholder relations, and make CUPA much stronger.
I usually don't make this site about me. I like to focus on the game itself, and I valu
e serious topics that other people can relate to themselves. Thus I won't tell you about every club practice, my trips to the grocery store or anything of that nature unless it may make you laugh/learn.I'm taking an 8 month position with the Canadian Olympic Committee starting tomorrow, focusing on Olympic Games Preparaton regarding the Bejing Olympics. I'll still be working on contracts with the Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance and the Canada Games Council. Needless to say, I'm pretty excited about the new opportunity. It might open many doors.
I am also happy to say that I've accepted an invitation to join the Board of Directors for the Canadian Ultimate Players Association. I will go on reco
rd as saying that our national body has failed to organize and develop our sport as well as it possibly could. We have a new executive director and there appears to be a desire for change. I hope to help CUPA change the way things are done, so that it can work harder and smarter, and we can develop ultimate, build stakeholder relations, and make CUPA much stronger.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Captain Considerations: Win Now Versus Win Later
Nation,
Our sport is growing up. No longer can pick up teams walk into local tourneys and dominate as they once did. As the game continues to mature, this will become even more difficult.
Under the current Worlds system, teams qualify to represent their country by winning their national title in the previous year. You win nationals in 2007, you represent Canada in 2008. That's the system we have to work under.
So if you're not a defending national champion this year, what should be the plan of your team?
Ultimate Product Life Cycle
Here are some ideas on how to get started making those decisions
Any team on this planet can be beaten. However, if you want to beat Furious, Traffic, or Team Fisher Price in 2011, you better develop a long term comprehensive plan that gives you the best chance for success when it matters most.
Or,
You can do it the other way that so many teams do. You can lose focus and abandon your plans the minute a good player(s) comes into town in order to try and win every year. You can ignore your city leagues and feeder systems because you're busy with other things. You can lead aimlessly without a real plan from year to year.
To each his own.
Our sport is growing up. No longer can pick up teams walk into local tourneys and dominate as they once did. As the game continues to mature, this will become even more difficult.
Under the current Worlds system, teams qualify to represent their country by winning their national title in the previous year. You win nationals in 2007, you represent Canada in 2008. That's the system we have to work under.
So if you're not a defending national champion this year, what should be the plan of your team?
A lot of teams that were very close to winning will continue to compete for a national title every year until it is time to dissolve. This is understandable. I expect my readers to cringe as I compare teams to the business concept known as the product life cycle. But what about the rest of the pack? How should team leaders plan for this year and for coming years?
Ultimate Product Life Cycle
Here are some ideas on how to get started making those decisions
- Take stock of your team and your players
- Evaluate your micro environment. Your city, your league, your feeder system. Understand how everyone and everything affects you. Understand cause and effect.
- Evaluate the macro environment (competition in the division and how you stack up, changes in the system, changes/status of outside areas such as the college scene)
- Set your goals
- Make a plan
- Stick to it
Any team on this planet can be beaten. However, if you want to beat Furious, Traffic, or Team Fisher Price in 2011, you better develop a long term comprehensive plan that gives you the best chance for success when it matters most.
Don't you drink coffee with a fork?
Photo Source: Daniel Bergson/Facebook
Photo Source: Daniel Bergson/Facebook
Or,
You can do it the other way that so many teams do. You can lose focus and abandon your plans the minute a good player(s) comes into town in order to try and win every year. You can ignore your city leagues and feeder systems because you're busy with other things. You can lead aimlessly without a real plan from year to year.
To each his own.
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