Chicago Union Ultimate Frisbee

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

The Union is one of 24 teams in the UFA. Founded in 2012, the league rebranded to UFA earlier this year. UFA is divided into four geographical divisions. The seven-on-seven games consist of four 12 minute quarters played on an 80-yard field. After the opening throw, the receiving team must 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 12 game season runs April through July, culminating in UFA Championship Weekend August 23-24, 2024 at Zions Bank Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah,

The Union were founded as Windy City Wildfire during the first expansion in 2013. It was renamed the Union in 2020, while the league went on hiatus due to the pandemic. It plays its home games at Martin Stadium, part of the Northwestern lakefront athletic facilities. Having beautiful Lake Michigan as the backdrop was an added aesthetic bonus.

The Union went into the Friday game with a 3-1 record. Their opponent was division rivals the Madison Radicals, who were 2-1.

My game day experience started right at the gate, where JB Vannatta and The Midnight Thieves provided musical entertainment. I arrived about 45 minutes before the game started and the stands were already quite filled. I meandered around, checking out the food booths, merch tent and the kids' play area.

By the time I settled into my seat at game time, the crowd was already loudly supporting the Union, although I heard a few cheers for the Radicals, probably due to the relative proximity of Madison. I moved quite often throughout the game, wanting to check out the action from different views.

It didn't take long for the action to heat up. The Radicals scored first, just 19 seconds into the game. The Union tied it 32 seconds later on a score by John Lithio, The seesaw battle continued with the largest lead being three by the Radicals. With 5:53 remaining, the Union scored, making it 18-17. The Union held on for a 20-19 win.

As a team, the Union completed 94% of their passes to 91% for the Radicals. The Union crushed the Radicals in total pass attempts (352-225) and completions (332-205). All other stats were very close, except for hucks (passes longer than 30 yards). The Radicals connected on 71% (10/14) compared to 46% (6/13).

Union Individual Leaders:
Nate Astrom-4 goals
Henry Goldenberg and Grant Harris-4 assists
Dex Dremann-335 throwing yards and 364 total yards
Wilson Matthews-272 receiving yards
Sam Kaminsky-46 completions

The game was exciting enough, but the entire experience was even better. Stephen Kohler entertained all with his music at halftime. In-game emcee Kaylee Kowalski conducted fan interactive events and led the crowd in cheers.

Earlier in the week, I talked to Union co-owner Ben Rodman to get a quick intro into the team and league. While Ben explained things, I could sense his passion. He stressed the excitement of the game experience and it lived up to his positive statements.

The win moved the Union (4-1) into sole possession of first place, one-half game ahead of the Minnesota Wind Chill (3-1). The Union return to action tonight in Indianapolis facing the AlleyCats and return home Friday, 6/14 to host the Pittsburgh Thunderbirds. This was my first Union game, but it definitely will not be my last.

Thank you to Ben and the Union organization for the hospitality and helpful information. I encourage everyone to check out the Chicago Union. Once you do, you will be hooked like I am.