Our inaugural Goaltimate tournament happened this past Saturday evening. We had about 80 people that showed up across 9 teams to take part. After a quick rules session put on by Alena Papayanis and Joel Meyers, participants headed into the bubble at Monarch Park to get their first look at the four Goaltimate arches we had set up.

Turnout was a little lower than we had originally hoped for, but this allowed us to rejig the schedule and ensure everyone got a serious workout!

For those who were new to the sport, they rapidly learned how quickly the game can move. With no change of possession when a point is scored, it is easy to get yourself caught on the field tired and playing D several points in a row. For players familiar with the game, getting used to the USA Goaltimate field dimensions was a new experience.

After a few embarrassing moments where people put the disc on the ground after scoring, it didn’t take long before teams were learning to huck and clear the disc after a score. Quick disc movement favouring agile handlers is key to the game, and a throw-and-go style of play proved to be key to racking up victories. For those looking to tour this summer, this provided a great run and a lot of touches to ramp up for the outdoor season!

Win or lose though, people everywhere seemed to be having fun with the new experience! I saw a lot of smiles and laughter on the sidelines.

We were happy that our on-site athletic therapist was so bored with the lack of injuries that she even managed to sneak on the field for a few points.