When I was in school, learning about the constitution felt rather dry—mostly confined to textbook readings and lecture-based learning. It was an academic exercise that didn’t quite resonate with me. Everything changed when I was introduced to a game called Ultimate Frisbee. This game, rooted in democratic values, offered an engaging way to discuss and internalize constitutional principles.
Ultimate Frisbee is a non-contact, mixed-gender sport played with a flying disc (Frisbee). What sets it apart from many other sports is its emphasis on self-officiating, even at the highest levels. There are no referees; players call their own fouls and resolve disputes among themselves. Originating in America as part of the counter-culture movement in the late 1960s, the game emerged during a time of civil rights unrest, riots, and political turmoil. Young people sought ways to resist societal norms, finding expression through music, communal living, activism, and alternative lifestyles. Ultimate Frisbee became a means to promote communal care, reject rigid regulations, and encourage personal growth and self-expression (Gerald, G. 2009).
Similarly, in DNT (De-notified Tribes) communities, daily life is often controlled by the Jaat Panchayat and the police department. The panchayat enforces unwritten rules that all members must follow. Non-compliance results in hefty fines or punishment. These rules cover aspects such as marriage, work, and menstruation, imposing significant restrictions on personal freedoms, especially for women. Additionally, members of these communities face police surveillance and movement restrictions due to their identity. These institutions restrict their autonomy and freedom. Introducing Frisbee to children and adolescents from DNT and Adivasi communities has provided them with a space to feel liberated, enjoy themselves, and express their individuality without constraints.
Here’s how Frisbee addresses various issues:
- Spirit Circle: After every match, players from both teams gather to discuss the game. They offer feedback, appreciate each other’s performance, and discuss the spirit of the game. This setting is considered safe, allowing children to voice their opinions and express themselves freely.
- Self-Officiating: The game is self-officiated by the players, with no referee present. Players make decisions on the field and resolve disputes through discussion and consensus. This democratic approach encourages children to negotiate and resolve conflicts on their own, fostering respect for each other’s opinions and empowering them by allowing them to make decisions and assert their agency.
- Mixed-Gender Sport: Ultimate Frisbee challenges gender stereotypes and promotes equality. Traditionally, sports have been male-dominated, but Frisbee creates a space where children of all genders can play together. This helps children become more sensitive to each other’s issues and fosters comfort and unity. From my experience, I’ve seen children supporting each other during personal difficulties, which strengthens relationships and promotes healthy interactions across genders.
In the community we’re currently working with, significant intra-community conflicts have occasionally led to violent clashes. These strained relationships are evident in the behaviour of the children. For instance, when I asked a boy to come to another lane for a meeting, he refused because his parents had instructed him to avoid potential conflicts. Similarly, there is tension between youths from different communities living in the same slum. Introducing Frisbee was intended to create a shared space for interaction. The game sparked interest, and soon individuals with previous conflicts began participating together. The spirit circles facilitated discussions, leading to improved interactions in other settings. Over time, I observed a strengthening of community bonds and enhanced cohesion.
The game also allowed me to connect with the children and adolescents in a meaningful way. Due to the democratic nature of Frisbee, they began to see me less as an authority figure and more as a peer. This shift also opened up conversations about sensitive topics like puberty, sexuality, and gender relations—topics often discussed within close friend circles. It provided an opportunity for me to understand how adolescent boys in the community view these issues and to offer a space where their curiosity is met with clear, respectful answers.
Ultimate Frisbee has been transformational for children and youth from marginalised communities and I hope that the game will create opportunities for the community to come together and bring change.
