Starting 1 January 2018, all mixed divisions at National Events will be played using the prescribed ratio rule (Ratio Rule A) to determine gender choice.

In 2017, Max Halden on behalf of the AFDA conducted a survey to investigate Australian ultimate players and captains views on the best format for Australian Mixed Ultimate National Events moving forward. An overwhelming majority of 84.7% of respondents were in favour of adopting the prescribed ratio rule (first utilised at the World Games 2017 in Poland).

The prescribed ratio rule features an equal representation of male and female players on the field throughout the game.

The first domestic event of 2018 to utilise the prescribed ratio rule will be 2018 Australian Beach Ultimate Championships.

From WFDF Rules of Ultimate 2017 Appendix

A7.2. Ratio Rule A (“prescribed ratio” rule):

A7.2.1. At the start of the game, after the first disc flip, an additional disc flip happens with the winner selecting the gender ratio for the first point. For the second and third points the ratio must be the reverse of the first point. For the fourth and fifth points the ratio must be same as the first point. This pattern of alternating the ratio every two points repeats until the end of the game (half time has no impact on the pattern).

We thank Max for his enthusiasm and passion to continue to grow and improve the mixed division in Australia.

Photo Credit: Pat Thorpe Ultimate Photography