I recently attended my first Ultimate Frisbee Association game. I could not ask for more from an exciting 20–19 win for the Chicago Union.

Founded in 2012 as American Ultimate Disc League, it was rebranded as UFA early this year. Composed of 24 teams, UFA is divided into four geographical divisions. The 12-game season runs April through July, culminating in UFA Championship Weekend, Aug. 23–24, at Zions Bank Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Games consist of four 12-minute quarters played on an 80-yard field. The seven-on-seven game play starts with an opening throw. The receiving team attempts to advance the frisbee to the opposing end zone through passing. No running with the frisbee is allowed. Play stops upon a score, a dropped pass or an interception.

The Union were founded as Windy City Wildfire during the league’s first expansion in 2013. It was renamed the Union in 2020 while the league went on hiatus due to the pandemic. Union games are played at Martin Stadium on Northwestern University’s lakefront athletic complex.

The game-day experience included live music pregame and at halftime. In-game emcee Kaylee Kowalski conducted fan interactive events and led the crowd in cheers. The stands were filled with fans who cheered through the entire match. A few food booths, a kids’ area and a couple other fan activities were located beyond the far end zone. Having beautiful Lake Michigan as the backdrop was an added aesthetic bonus.

The game itself was a thriller. Division rival Madison Radicals jumped to a quick 1–0 lead just 18 seconds into the game. The Union answered 33 seconds later to tie it. The seesaw battle continued throughout the game, with neither team leading by more than three points. The Union took the lead for good with about five minutes remaining and held on for a narrow victory. Chicago moved into sole possession of first place.

— John Wroblewski, online writer