Managing Your Downtime

People get injured in this sport. You play long enough, you play hard enough, you are bound to experience a major injury at some point.

Denial and anger tend to be two big stumbling points - get over these, and we get into the productive things that you can do when you're out of the game.

Become a coach: sounds simple, and that's because it is. Spend the time you would be playing ultimate teaching others how to play the game. I am not sure what the situation is in other states (though I would love to know, if the AFDA admin folk have any idea please give me a yell) but there is definitely a shortage of instructors and a high demand for coaches in high schools and universities in NSW.

Read a book: I recommend Ben Elton's Stark.

Analyse the game: paid for a tournament that you won't be able to play at due to injury? If you're anything like the average ultimate player, I'm going to bet that you have learnt most of your skills through playing and training. While you're out, why not go to Regionals or Nationals - pick a team or a player that have something you'd like to bring to your game and take down notes.

Volunteer at a tournament: everyone loves volunteers and tournaments couldn't take place without them. I am sure your local TD would have no objections to your helping out.

Focus: if you're anything like me then you probably let ultimate get in the way of other commitments, like family, non-frisbee friends, cleanliness of house and finances. Use your downtime to apply yourself to anything you've been missing out on.