STAGE 4: Ages 11-16


Train to Play (T2P)


T2P focuses on preparing the athlete for the demands of the sport both physically and mentally. An increased understanding of tactics and strategies used in Ultimate assists athletes in the continued development and consolidation of skills. It is by the end of this stage that athletes transition from T2P to T2C or Ultimate for Life for more recreational participation in Ultimate.


Goal - Train the whole Ultimate athlete based on their physical, technical, tactical, mental, cognitive, and emotional development. SOTG - Athletes take responsibility for their actions, respect others and practice conflict resolution. Technical - Develop and consolidate skills learned in previous stages. Tactical - Learn position-specific defensive strategies and basic zone offense (later in stage). Physical - Team and/or individualized fitness program (including exercise, nutrition and rest) is provided. Introduce weight training using body weight and speed training. Athletes should be encouraged to participate in two sports, with one being Ultimate. Psychological - Coach provides personalized expectations based on athlete’s physical capacities and skill level.


At the Field


Competition format: 1-2 league games/week and 1-2 tournaments/season. No more than 2 games in a row during tournaments.


Special rules: No zone until later in stage. Modify field size & game length early in stage. Transition to full size field later in stage.


Game format: Transition from small-sided to full-field games later in the stage/season.


Specialization: Transition from playing multiple positions to focusing on 2-3 positions by end of stage.


Equipment: Full-size discs, cleats, cones, uniforms/pinnies.


Recommended training each week: 1-2 practices (includes throwing & physical training elements); 2-3 complementary sport/running sessions; 1 throwing session & additional stretching sessions. Sessions range from 30-120 minutes.


Season length: 8-16 weeks (combination of indoors and outdoor based on region).


Game format 4v4


5v5 7v7


Team size 8-10


10-12


10-14 league 12-16 tourn.


Playing Field Proper Width


18 m/20 yds 23 m/25 yds 32 m/35 yds


Length


27 m/30 yds 39 m/42 yds 45.7 m/50 yds


Refer to full document for more information


Endzone Length 3 m/3 yds


13 m/14 yds 16.5 m/18 yds


Stage by Stage - LTAD


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