Disc events, such as disc golf and frisbee competitions, have become increasingly popular worldwide. However, there are certain rules and regulations that must be followed to ensure fair play and safety. One important aspect of these events is the use of illegal discs. In this article, we will explore what makes a disc illegal and the consequences of using one in a competition. We will also discuss the importance of adhering to the rules and regulations set forth by the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) and other governing bodies. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the sport, read on to learn more about what makes a disc illegal and how it can affect your game.

Disc Events and Competitions

Overview of Disc Events

Disc events are a category of sports and games that involve the use of frisbees, which are flat circular discs made of plastic. The frisbee was first invented in the 1950s and has since become a popular recreational item and competitive sport. Disc events are often divided into several categories, each with its own set of rules and regulations.

Different types of Disc Events

There are several types of disc events, each with its own unique rules and regulations. Some of the most popular disc events include:

Frisbee Golf

Frisbee golf is a sport that involves players using frisbees to hit targets on a course. The game is played similarly to golf, with players trying to hit the targets in as few throws as possible. Frisbee golf courses typically have multiple holes, each with its own target.

Ultimate Frisbee

Ultimate Frisbee is a team sport that involves two teams of seven players each. The objective of the game is to pass the frisbee down the field and score points by catching it in the end zone. The game is played with a frisbee and a goal post at each end of the field.

Disc Golf

Disc golf is a sport that involves players using frisbees to hit targets on a course. The game is played similarly to golf, with players trying to hit the targets in as few throws as possible. Disc golf courses typically have multiple holes, each with its own target.

Freestyle Frisbee

Freestyle Frisbee is a sport that involves players performing various acrobatic maneuvers with a frisbee. Competitors are judged on their ability to perform various tricks, such as catches, throws, and flips.

Beach Ultimate

Beach Ultimate is a variant of Ultimate Frisbee that is played on a beach. The game is played with a frisbee and a goal post at each end of the field. The objective of the game is to pass the frisbee down the field and score points by catching it in the end zone.

Double Disc Court

Double Disc Court is a sport that involves two players hitting a frisbee back and forth to each other on a court. The game is played with two frisbees and a goal at each end of the court.

Guts

Guts is a simple game that involves players standing in a circle and throwing a frisbee to each other. The player catching the frisbee must then throw it back to the person who threw it before they can catch it again. The game continues until someone drops the frisbee or fails to catch it.

Disc Accuracy

Disc Accuracy is a game that involves players throwing a frisbee at a target. The player with the most throws closest to the target wins.

11-Man Ultimate

11-Man Ultimate is a variant of Ultimate Frisbee that is played with 11 players on each team. The objective of the game is to pass the frisbee down the field and score points by catching it in the end zone.

7-Man Ultimate

7-Man Ultimate is a variant of Ultimate Frisbee that is played with 7 players on each team. The objective of the game is to pass the frisbee down the field and score points by catching it in the end zone.

Disc Sport Organizations

There are several organizations that oversee disc events and competitions. These organizations establish the rules and regulations for each event and organize tournaments and competitions. Some of the most prominent disc sport organizations include the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF), the USA Ultimate (USAU), and the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA).

World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF)

Overview of WFDF

The World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) is the international governing body for flying disc sports, including Ultimate, Disc Golf, and Guts. It was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden. The WFDF is responsible for promoting the development of flying disc sports worldwide, and it organizes and sanctions international competitions and events.

WFDF Rules and Regulations

The WFDF has established a set of rules and regulations for flying disc sports that are followed by its member organizations and national federations. These rules and regulations are designed to ensure fair play, safety, and consistency in the sport.

Disc Sport Rules

The Disc Sport Rules are a set of rules that apply to all WFDF-sanctioned disc sports events. These rules cover a wide range of topics, including the equipment used in the sport, the format of the game, and the rules for penalties and fouls. The Disc Sport Rules are regularly updated to reflect changes in the sport and to address any issues that arise.

Disc Sport Regulations

The Disc Sport Regulations are a set of guidelines that provide additional detail and interpretation of the Disc Sport Rules. They are designed to help organizers and officials interpret and apply the rules in a consistent and fair manner. The Disc Sport Regulations cover topics such as field size, game length, and scoring.

Disc Sport Technical Documents

The Disc Sport Technical Documents are a set of technical documents that provide detailed information on specific aspects of the sport, such as the measurement of the field or the specifications for the equipment used. These documents are designed to provide a clear and comprehensive guide for organizers and officials.

Disc Sport Documents

The Disc Sport Documents are a collection of documents that provide additional information and resources for the sport. These documents include the WFDF Code of Conduct, the WFDF Anti-Doping Policy, and the WFDF Safety Guidelines.

WFDF Competitions

The WFDF organizes and sanctions a variety of international competitions and events, including the World Championships, Continental Championships, World Cup, World Masters Championships, and other WFDF Events. These competitions are open to teams and players from all over the world and are designed to promote the development of the sport and to showcase the best players in the world.

World Championships

The World Championships are the most prestigious event in the sport of flying disc. They are held every four years and feature teams from all over the world competing in a variety of disciplines, including Ultimate, Disc Golf, and Guts. The World Championships are the ultimate test of skill and strength in the sport, and they are highly sought after by players and teams from around the world.

Continental Championships

The Continental Championships are regional championships that are held every two years. They feature teams from a specific continent, such as Europe, North America, or Asia, competing in a variety of disciplines. The Continental Championships are an important opportunity for teams to showcase their skills and to compete against the best teams in their region.

World Cup

The World Cup is a series of international tournaments that are held throughout the year. The World Cup features teams from all over the world competing in a variety of disciplines, including Ultimate, Disc Golf, and Guts. The World Cup is an important opportunity for teams to gain international experience and to showcase their skills on a global stage.

World Masters Championships

The World Masters Championships are a series of international tournaments that are held every two years for players over the age of 35. The World Masters Championships feature players from all over the world competing in a variety of disciplines, including Ultimate, Disc Golf, and Guts. The World Masters Championships are an important opportunity for older players to

USA Ultimate (USAU)

Overview of USA Ultimate

USA Ultimate (USAU) is the national governing body for the sport of ultimate in the United States. It was founded in 1975 and is responsible for promoting the growth and development of ultimate across the country. USA Ultimate is a member of the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

USA Ultimate Rules and Regulations

The rules and regulations for USA Ultimate competitions are based on the principles of fair play, sportsmanship, and player safety. These rules are designed to ensure that all players have a fair and enjoyable experience while participating in ultimate events.

Spirit of the Game

The “Spirit of the Game” is a fundamental principle of ultimate that emphasizes the importance of sportsmanship, fair play, and respect for opponents. Players are expected to exhibit a high level of sportsmanship at all times and to avoid any behavior that might be considered unsportsmanlike or detrimental to the game.

Player Conduct

Players are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with the principles of fair play and sportsmanship. This includes refraining from any behavior that might be considered violent, abusive, or discriminatory. Players who engage in unsportsmanlike behavior may be subject to penalties or ejection from the game.

Equipment

Players are required to use equipment that is safe and appropriate for ultimate play. This includes a flying disc, a stick, and a playing field that meets the requirements of USA Ultimate. Players who use illegal or unsafe equipment may be subject to penalties or disqualification from the game.

Scoring

Scoring in ultimate is based on the completion of a pass from one player to another. A team scores a point when it successfully completes a pass in the end zone of the opposing team. The first team to reach the target score (usually 15 or 21 points) wins the game.

Time Outs and Substitutions

Each team is allowed a certain number of time-outs and substitutions during the game. Time-outs can be used to rest players, strategize, or make adjustments to the team’s game plan. Substitutions can be made at any time during the game, subject to certain restrictions.

Fouls and Penalties

Fouls are violations of the rules of ultimate that result in a penalty for the offending team. Examples of fouls include traveling, stalling, and contact fouls. Penalties for fouls may include a loss of possession, a turnover, or a penalty throw.

Protests and Appeals

Players and coaches may protest a decision made by the officials or appeal a penalty or other decision made during the game. Protests and appeals must be made in accordance with the rules and regulations of USA Ultimate and must be based on a violation of the rules or a misapplication of the rules by the officials.

Disc Prohibitions

Illegal Disc Techniques

Unsportsmanlike Conduct

• Taunting: Taunting is defined as behavior that is intended to provoke or disconcert an opponent. This includes actions such as making obscene gestures, mocking, or using insulting language. Taunting is not only unethical but also against the rules of disc events.
• Trash Talking: Trash talking is verbal abuse that is aimed at belittling an opponent. This behavior is considered to be unsportsmanlike and is strictly prohibited in disc events.
• Deliberate Injury: Deliberately causing injury to an opponent is not only illegal but also morally reprehensible. Such behavior is not tolerated in disc events and can result in immediate disqualification.
• Baiting Opponents: Baiting opponents involves provoking them into a reaction that can be used against them. This behavior is not only unethical but also illegal in disc events.
• Abusive Language: Using abusive language towards an opponent is not only unethical but also illegal in disc events. This behavior can result in disqualification and other penalties.

Disc Tampering

• Sharping or Beveling: Sharping or beveling a disc involves altering its edge to give it an unfair advantage. This behavior is illegal in disc events and can result in disqualification.
• Removing or Tampering with the Flight Plate: The flight plate is an essential component of a disc and is used to determine its flight characteristics. Removing or tampering with the flight plate is illegal and can result in disqualification.
• Attaching Weights or Heavy Objects: Attaching weights or heavy objects to a disc can alter its flight characteristics and give an unfair advantage. This behavior is illegal in disc events and can result in disqualification.
• Bending or Breaking the Plastic: Bending or breaking the plastic of a disc can alter its flight characteristics and give an unfair advantage. This behavior is illegal in disc events and can result in disqualification.

Disc Alterations

• Cutting or Notching the Edge: Cutting or notching the edge of a disc can alter its flight characteristics and give an unfair advantage. This behavior is illegal in disc events and can result in disqualification.
• Drilling Holes: Drilling holes in a disc can alter its flight characteristics and give an unfair advantage. This behavior is illegal in disc events and can result in disqualification.
• Applying Stickers or Markings: Applying stickers or markings to a disc can alter its flight characteristics and give an unfair advantage. This behavior is illegal in disc events and can result in disqualification.
• Painting or Coloring: Painting or coloring a disc can alter its flight characteristics and give an unfair advantage. This behavior is illegal in disc events and can result in disqualification.

Disc Prohibitions in Competitions

WFDF Disc Prohibitions

The World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) outlines specific rules and regulations for disc prohibitions in competitions. These rules apply to all WFDF-sanctioned events, including the World Championships and Continental Championships.

Disc Specifications

The WFDF has established specifications for the dimensions and weight of discs used in competitions. These specifications ensure that all discs used in WFDF-sanctioned events are standardized and fair. Any disc that does not meet these specifications is illegal and cannot be used in competition.

Disc Tampering

Disc tampering is strictly prohibited in WFDF-sanctioned events. Tampering with a disc includes any alteration or modification of the disc that affects its flight characteristics. This includes, but is not limited to, sanding, cutting, or drilling the disc. Any player caught tampering with a disc will be disqualified from the event.

Disc Alterations

Disc alterations are also prohibited in WFDF-sanctioned events. This includes any alteration or modification of the disc that affects its flight characteristics. Any player caught altering a disc will be disqualified from the event.

Prohibited Substances

The use of prohibited substances is strictly prohibited in WFDF-sanctioned events. Prohibited substances include, but are not limited to, performance-enhancing drugs, alcohol, and tobacco products. Any player caught using a prohibited substance will be disqualified from the event and may face additional penalties, including suspension or expulsion from future events.

USA Ultimate Disc Prohibitions

USA Ultimate, the national governing body for ultimate in the United States, also has specific rules and regulations for disc prohibitions in competitions. These rules apply to all USA Ultimate-sanctioned events, including the National Championships and Regional Championships.

USA Ultimate also has established specifications for the dimensions and weight of discs used in competitions. These specifications ensure that all discs used in USA Ultimate-sanctioned events are standardized and fair. Any disc that does not meet these specifications is illegal and cannot be used in competition.

Disc tampering is strictly prohibited in USA Ultimate-sanctioned events. Tampering with a disc includes any alteration or modification of the disc that affects its flight characteristics. This includes, but is not limited to, sanding, cutting, or drilling the disc. Any player caught tampering with a disc will be disqualified from the event.

Disc alterations are also prohibited in USA Ultimate-sanctioned events. This includes any alteration or modification of the disc that affects its flight characteristics. Any player caught altering a disc will be disqualified from the event.

The use of prohibited substances is strictly prohibited in USA Ultimate-sanctioned events. Prohibited substances include, but are not limited to, performance-enhancing drugs, alcohol, and tobacco products. Any player caught using a prohibited substance will be disqualified from the event and may face additional penalties, including suspension or expulsion from future events.

Disc Infractions and Penalties

Types of Infractions

Playing Infractions

Delay of Game

• Occurs when a player fails to clear the jammer pack or when a player fails to throw the disc within 10 seconds
• Results in a turnover

Traveling

• Occurs when a player takes more than one step while holding the disc or when a player throws the disc and then steps

Moving Pick

• Occurs when a player catches a disc thrown by their own teammate before it has traveled 5 meters

Unsportsmanlike Conduct

• Occurs when a player engages in behavior that is deemed to be unsportsmanlike, such as taunting or trash talking
• Results in a penalty

Spin/Swim Infraction

• Occurs when a player spins or swims to avoid being blocked

Pivot Infraction

• Occurs when a player pivots before the disc is caught by the receiver

7-meter Infraction

• Occurs when a player jumps and lands on top of another player who is not holding the disc

Stall Warning

• Occurs when a player repeatedly throws the disc out of bounds or fails to advance the disc
• Results in a warning

Stall Infraction

Non-Playing Infractions

Out of Bounds

• Occurs when the disc goes out of bounds

Noise Violation

• Occurs when a player makes excessive noise that distracts from the game

Substitution Violation

• Occurs when a player substitutes into the game without permission

Time Violation

• Occurs when a player takes too long to put the disc into play

Scoring Violation

• Occurs when a player scores a goal improperly
• Results in the goal being taken off the board

Penalties and Consequences

When a player or team commits an infraction during a disc event, they may be subject to penalties and consequences. These penalties are designed to maintain fair play and ensure that the game is played according to the rules. The severity of the penalty depends on the type and degree of the infraction.

Warning

A warning is the least severe penalty and is given when a player or team commits a minor infraction. Warnings can be given verbally by the game official or through a sighting infraction, which is a penalty applied directly by the opposing team.

• Verbal Warning: A verbal warning is given by the game official to a player or team when they commit a minor infraction. The official will inform the player or team of the infraction and remind them of the rules.
• Sighting Infraction: A sighting infraction is a penalty applied directly by the opposing team when they believe the other team has committed a minor infraction. The opposing team can give a 7-meter warning or a stall warning to the other team.

7-meter Warning

A 7-meter warning is a penalty given by the opposing team when they believe the other team has committed a minor infraction. The opposing team can choose to give the other team a 7-meter warning, which means that the other team must throw the disc from 7 meters behind the end zone.

A stall warning is a penalty given by the opposing team when they believe the other team has committed a minor infraction related to stalling. The opposing team can give a stall warning to the other team, which means that the other team must throw the disc within a certain amount of time or risk losing possession of the disc.

Pivot Warning

A pivot warning is a penalty given by the opposing team when they believe the other team’s pivot is not following the rules. The opposing team can give a pivot warning to the other team, which means that the other team’s pivot must follow the rules or risk being called for a foul.

Noise Warning

A noise warning is a penalty given by the game official when the noise level on the field becomes too loud. The official will give a noise warning to the team or players responsible for the noise and remind them to keep the noise level down.

Substitution Warning

A substitution warning is a penalty given by the game official when a player or team violates the substitution rules. The official will give a substitution warning to the team or players responsible for the violation and remind them of the rules.

Time Warning

A time warning is a penalty given by the game official when a player or team violates the time rules. The official will give a time warning to the team or players responsible for the violation and remind them of the rules.

Scoring Warning

A scoring warning is a penalty given by the game official when a player or team violates the scoring rules. The official will give a scoring warning to the team or players responsible for the violation and remind them of the rules.

Unsportsmanlike Warning

An unsportsmanlike warning is a penalty given by the game official when a player or team displays unsportsmanlike behavior. The official will give an unsportsmanlike warning to the team or players responsible for the behavior and remind them to play

FAQs

1. What makes a disc illegal?

Illegal discs are those that do not meet the official rules and regulations set forth by the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) or other governing bodies for disc events. These rules cover a range of factors, including the size and shape of the disc, the materials used to make it, and the design and printing on the disc. The most common reason for a disc to be deemed illegal is if it does not meet the size requirements outlined in the rules, which state that the disc must be between 22.5 and 27.5 centimeters in diameter and 225 grams in weight.

2. Why are there rules for discs in competitive events?

Rules for discs in competitive events exist to ensure fairness and consistency among all players. By establishing clear guidelines for the design and construction of discs, the WFDF and other governing bodies can ensure that all players are using the same equipment and that the outcome of the game is determined by skill and strategy rather than by the quality or characteristics of the disc itself. Additionally, rules for discs help to promote safety by ensuring that the discs are designed and manufactured to specifications that minimize the risk of injury to players.

3. What happens if a player uses an illegal disc in a competition?

If a player uses an illegal disc in a competition, they may be disqualified from the event and their team may forfeit any points earned during the game. Additionally, if the player continues to use an illegal disc despite being warned by the officials, they may face further penalties, including being banned from future competitions. It is important for players to be aware of the rules regarding discs and to ensure that they are using only legal equipment in order to avoid any penalties or disqualifications.

4. How can I tell if a disc is legal or illegal?

The best way to determine if a disc is legal is to check its dimensions and weight. All legal discs must meet the size and weight requirements outlined in the rules, which are as follows: diameter between 22.5 and 27.5 centimeters, weight between 150 and 180 grams. Additionally, legal discs must have a flat edge and a rounded edge, and they must be manufactured from a specific type of plastic that meets the requirements outlined in the rules. If a disc does not meet these requirements, it is likely to be illegal and should not be used in competitive events.

5. Are there any exceptions to the rules for discs?

There are some exceptions to the rules for discs, particularly for players with disabilities who may require specialized equipment in order to participate in disc events. The WFDF and other governing bodies have established guidelines for players with disabilities and may approve discs that do not meet the standard requirements in order to allow these players to compete. However, these exceptions are limited and must be approved by the relevant governing body in order to be considered legal.

This Disc Is PDGA ILLEGAL Because It Goes Too Far