Excel Ultimate Defensive Strategy Breakdown

Introduction

Topic: Breakdown of an exemplary mark in ultimate frisbee
Presenter: Special guest Troy Holland, second runner-up defensive player of the year from Ultiworld
Focus: Analyzing a perfect mark and discussing Troy’s techniques

Context: Matt Russell trying to break the mark
Defense: Force flick mark on a sideline, leading to a negative reset
Key Insight: Knowing reset space is crucial for determining threats and formulating a marking plan

Thrower’s Hold: Thrower holding flick; possibility to cheat towards the shown throw
Athletic Stance: Troy’s wide base with legs wider than hips and shoulders; helps maintain balance
Resisting Shimmies: Troy stays upright, moves minimally, and counters thrower’s shimmies
- First shimmy: Troy stays upright; thrower’s shimmy ineffective
- Second shimmy: Inside window block by staying balanced
Adapting to Thrower’s Pivot: Recognizes and counters thrower’s attempts to pivot and break around
- Steps and foot flash to cover the throw
- Forces the thrower into a high-stall bailout

Successfully stops multiple looks, forces a turnover due to the high stall count

Entering with a Plan: Understanding defensive strategy (e.g., take away around throws)
Covering the Disc: Main body part (typically torso) should cover the disc
- Minimal movements aligned with the disc’s movement

Staying Upright: Avoid falling or lunging; maintain straight body position
Blocking Technique: Prefer blocking down over blocking up for better balance and quicker recovery if thrower pivots back
- Blocking down maintains lower center of mass; easier to adjust for next move

Next Steps: Implement these strategies in your own games and watch your defensive skills improve!