The Thrill of Playing Left-Handed in the AUDL: Advantages and Challenges
Being a left-handed person is unique. In fact only about 10% of the US is left handed. Playing ultimate frisbee in the AUDL is even more unique, an even smaller percentage of people get to play frisbee professionally. Playing ultimate frisbee in the AUDL is a thrilling experience for players of all skill levels, but for left-handed players like me, it can be even more exciting. Being a left-handed player in the AUDL can have several benefits and can also present unique challenges that right-handed players do not encounter. In this blog post, we will explore what it's like being a left-handed player in the AUDL, the advantages of playing lefty, and why it's more fun to play left-handed in the AUDL.
First and foremost, left-handed players have an advantage in ultimate frisbee because they throw with their left hand. This can catch defenders off guard, giving the lefty player an edge. Many defenders are used to playing against right-handed players and may not be prepared for a left-handed throw. Traditionally, the common force in frisbee is flick. Any time a force flick is placed, the left-handed thrower has an easier break throw than a righty. To throw a break, all I have to do is take a quick step with my left foot and release a quick flick. Contrast this with the righty going against a flick mark, they have to bring their right foot from its normal spot all the way over to the left side to beat the defender, a motion that takes just a split second longer than the lefty step. I use this advantage a lot as a cutter, actually, when I receive a pass on the break side, to make a quick continue break throw before the mark can properly set. The inside break pass is easier too for lefties, as it is much more difficult to put the perfect touch on a righty flick that goes to the break side as opposed to an inside lefty backhand.
Another advantage of being a left-handed player is that it can be easier to throw certain types of throws. For example, left-handed players it’s easier to throw backhand passes to the right side of the field, which can be a difficult throw for right-handed players. Additionally, left-handed players can usually throw more effective scoobers and hammers because of the hand placements of the mark. One of the most devastating zone breaking techniques I’ve found is the lefty hammer from the “wrong” side, on the far force flick sideline all the way over to the break sideline. The release angle makes it nearly impossible for any mark to stop, and the angle of the throw makes it difficult to float the hammer, and darts over to the receiver usually before the monster can get over.
Despite these advantages, being a left-handed player in the AUDL can also present challenges. For example, most frisbees are designed to be thrown with the right hand, meaning that left-handed players may need to adjust their grip and throwing technique. I also think that lefties have a little bit slower time get the disc to a reset that’s 45 and behind, and can’t properly get their rear into the defender to create space, so smart defenders can sometimes jump lefty dumps and get blocks.
However, despite these challenges, playing left-handed in the AUDL can be incredibly rewarding. Left-handed players have the opportunity to bring a unique style of play to the game, and their left-handed throws can be a game-changer. Additionally, left-handed players can inspire other lefties to take up the sport and can serve as role models for future generations of left-handed players.
In conclusion, being a left-handed player in the AUDL has its advantages and challenges, but ultimately, it can be an incredibly fun and rewarding experience. Left-handed players have the opportunity to bring a new style of play to the game, and their left-handed throws can catch defenders off guard. If you are a left-handed player interested in playing ultimate frisbee in the AUDL, don't be afraid to embrace your left-handedness and show the world what you can do!
- Cam Thatcher
