What Are the Types of Throws in Ultimate Frisbee?

Ultimate Frisbee is a nationwide organization dedicated to the art of throwing Frisbees and Frisbee-playing as a pastime. Ultimate Frisbee is also the name of the game as defined by the organization. Ultimate Frisbee is a non-contact sport that features teams of seven, who try to score points by passing the Frisbee to teammates and scoring, much like soccer and football.

  1. Thumber

    • The thumber throw is so named because of the position in which the player holds the Frisbee. To accomplish this throw, the player must place the thumb beneath the rim of the Frisbee and remaining four fingers on top of the Frisbee. The player tosses the Frisbee either as a sidearm throw or an overhanded throw, flicking the wrist forward throughout the move.

    Backhand

    • A backhand throw occurs when the payer wraps a forearm around the outer edge of the Frisbee and tucks it against the body. This throw is a good high velocity throw. The player should flick the wrist forward as he releases the Frisbee.

    Overhand

    • An overhand throw is similar to a backhand throw. Players hold the Frisbee with four fingers on top and the thumb tucked beneath the Frisbee. The disc is behind the player's back and brought around to the front of the player's body with knuckles facing up. A flick of the wrist at the end point, just before release, provides the velocity of the throw.

    Hammer

    • A powerful Frisbee throw is the hammer, so named because the player launches the Frisbee at a side angle, holding it over the head as if holding a hammer. The player flicks his wrist upward as he makes the throw, launching the Frisbee at a side angle.

    Forehand

    • The forehand is also called the flick, two-finger throw or side-arm throw. The force of the throw comes from the flick of the player's wrist. The Frisbee should be held out to the player's side. The index and middle fingers go under the Frisbee and the player launches it with a snap of the wrist.