I recently attended my first Ultimate Frisbee Association game. I could not ask for more from the exciting 20-19 win for the Chicago Union.
Originally founded in 2012 as American Ultimate Disc League, the league was rebranded as UFA early this year. The Union were debuted as Windy City Wildfire during the first expansion in 2013. It was renamed the Union in 2020, while the league went on hiatus due to the pandemic.
Composed of 24 teams, UFA is divided into four geographical divisions. Games consist of four 12 minute quarters. Played on an 80-yard field, the seven-on-seven game play starts with an opening throw. The receiving team must advance the frisbee to the opposing end zone through passing. No running with the frisbee is allowed. Play stops upon a score, a dropped pass or an interception. The 12 game season runs April through July, culminating in UFA Championship Weekend August 23-24, 2024 at Zions Bank Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah.
The Union went into the Friday game with a 3-1 record. Their opponent was division rivals the Madison Radicals, who were 2-1.
The Radicals scored first, just 19 seconds into the game. The Union tied it 32 seconds later on a score by John Lithio, The seesaw battle continued with the largest lead being three by the Radicals. With 5:53 remaining, the Union scored, making it 18-17. The Union held on for a 20-19 win.
As a team, the Union completed 94% of their passes to 91% for the Radicals. The Union crushed the Radicals in total pass attempts (352-225) and completions (332-205). All other stats were very close, except for hucks (passes longer than 30 yards). The Radicals connected on 71% (10/14) compared to 46% (6/13) for the Union.
Union Individual Leaders:
Nate Astrom-4 goals
Henry Goldenberg and Grant Harris-4 assists
Dex Dremann-335 throwing yards and 364 total yards
Wilson Matthews-272 receiving yards
Sam Kaminsky-46 completions
The game was exciting enough, but the entire experience was even better. JB Vannatta and The Midnight Thieves provided pregame musical entertainment, while Stephen Kohler played at halftime. In-game emcee Kaylee Kowalski conducted fan interactive events and led the crowd in cheers. There were a few food booths, bouncy houses for kids, bags and a couple other games. Played at Martin Stadium on Northwestern University’s lakefront sports facilities provided beautiful Lake Michigan as the backdrop as an added aesthetic bonus.
The win moved the Union (4-1) into sole possession of first place, one-half game ahead of the Minnesota Wind Chill (3-1). The Union return to action tonight in Indianapolis facing the AlleyCats and return home Friday, 6/14 to host the Pittsburgh Thunderbirds. This was my first Union game, but it definitely will not be my last.
