There's a new sport in town, Samo

Ultimate Frisbee is the newest sport to hit the Samo campus for the 2019-20 school year. Founded by Anna Kroskirty (’21), who started the process of bringing the team to Samo spring semester of last year, the idea to start the team spurred from playing Ultimate Frisbee with her cousin growing up. She also wanted a way to stay in shape after sustaining injuries from participating in Samo cross country and track. When asked her opinions regarding the team and expectations for the future, Kroskirty was optimistic. speaking of improvements made by the players on the team and hopes for expansion in the future. “The team has been going really well so far! Everyone has already improved so much. Also the atmosphere of the team has been extremely nice and supporting. Hopefully, in the future we can expand our team and more people will come out and play with us!” Kroskirty said.The team itself consists of approximately 15 players, ranging from freshmen to juniors. Player Kylee Navin (’21) believes that the camaraderie of the team and cooperative environment is truly something special. Navin is happy with the way she was welcomed to the laidback, positive and encouraging atmosphere. “Only good vibes,” Navin said.Originally, Kroskirty wanted the sport to be offered as a class at Samo, but after meeting with Samo Principal Dr. Antonio Shelton, she learned that wasn’t possible. However, she was encouraged to email the Samo athletics director, Mr. Fujinaga. After exchanging emails, Fujinaga and Kroskirty set up a meeting to talk about the team; they were joined by Grant Boyd, executive director and founder of Southern California Youth Ultimate (SCYU). There, they discussed the details for starting a team such as coaches, practice schedules, tournaments, and other requirements. Boyd then continued to help the team get qualified coaches.Due to the fact that there are not enough players to make two separate boys and girls teams, the Ultimate Frisbee team will be competing in a co-ed season between fall and winter season. The team will compete at tournaments and scrimmages against other schools such as Redondo which also has an Ultimate Frisbee Club. Practices are five days a week down by the beach, and if you’re interested in signing up for the team, apply for ISPE for the spring semester. Here in America, as many colleges create Ultimate Frisbee scholarship opportunities, this lesser-known sport might be the next best step in your athletic and academic career.