International Spirit of the Game Day

International Spirit of the Game Day (iSOTGDay) is observed annually on the first Saturday of December. This worldwide event is dedicated to the central ethos of flying disc sports, celebrating the principles of fair play, integrity, and mutual respect on and off the field. In 2025, it falls on December 6.

History of International Spirit of the Game Day

The holiday was established in 2014 by the non-profit organization Early Recognition Is Critical (E.R.I.C.), which uses Ultimate Frisbee clinics to teach youth about cancer symptom awareness. Originally called “E.R.I.C. Awareness Day,” the event was designed to combine health education with the sport’s unique values. In 2015, the name was officially changed to International Spirit of the Game Day to appeal to a broader global audience and emphasize the sport’s self-officiating nature.

For the first few years, the day was celebrated on fixed dates, often December 3, but the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) eventually standardized the observance to the first Saturday of December. This change allowed communities around the world to organize tournaments, clinics, and social gatherings on a weekend, maximizing participation. The day serves as a focal point for players of all disc disciplines, including Ultimate, Disc Golf, and Guts, to reflect on how they conduct themselves in competition.

Why is International Spirit of the Game Day Important?

This observance highlights “Spirit of the Game,” the defining characteristic that distinguishes disc sports from other athletic endeavors. In Ultimate, there are no referees; the players are solely responsible for adhering to the rules and resolving disputes. This reliance on personal integrity creates a culture where honest communication is valued over winning at any cost. The day reinforces the idea that a highly competitive environment does not require compromising one’s respect for an opponent.

Celebrating this concept helps athletes develop essential life skills such as emotional control, conflict resolution, and empathy. It reminds the community that sportsmanship is an active skill that requires practice and mindfulness. By dedicating a specific day to these values, the global frisbee family strengthens the bonds between different cultures and countries, united by a shared commitment to fair play.

• Players practice resolving on-field disagreements without third-party intervention
• It promotes the inclusion of new players in a supportive environment
• Teams renew their commitment to safety and rule knowledge
• The event raises awareness about the sport’s unique self-officiating model
• It connects a diverse international community through shared ethical standards

How to Observe International Spirit of the Game Day

Observation often involves organizing “hat tournaments” or pickup games where the final score is secondary to the quality of interactions. Players are encouraged to engage deeply in “Spirit Circles,” a post-game tradition where opposing teams link arms to discuss the match, offer constructive feedback, and compliment specific displays of good sportsmanship. Clubs may also host rules clinics or scenario discussions to ensure everyone understands the nuances of the game.

Beyond the field, the day is an excellent opportunity for digital engagement and community outreach. Players share stories of “Spirit victories”—moments where honesty prevailed over an easy point—on social media platforms. Youth coaches use the date to run special workshops focusing on the “five pillars” of spirit: rules knowledge, avoiding body contact, fair-mindedness, positive attitude, and self-control.

• Organize a friendly scrimmage with a focus on Spirit scores
• Host a rules quiz night for your local club or team
• Participate in a Spirit Circle after your weekend game
• Share a photo or story of a spirited opponent online
• Teach a new player the basic rules of self-officiating

International Spirit of the Game Day Dates