Tim Friesen joined the Calgary Ultimate Association (CUA) in January 2009 to spearhead an effort to revitalize youth Ultimate in Calgary. “I want to provide the tools and resources for anyone and everyone interested in getting kids playing our sport,” says Friesen. “This time it’s about getting a base of skilled players, teachers and volunteers coordinated to grow the game for the kids.”

Friesen himself is no stranger to climbing Ultimate’s competitive ladder. Looking back on 20 seasons of Ultimate, Friesen has played a role in nearly every facet of the sport – from league play, to competitive touring to coaching. He ran Vancouver’s league from 1992-93 and wore the CUC Tournament Director hat when Vancity hosted the championships in 1992. He’s captained Farm Accidents (Masters) who took gold at CUC 2000, and his current Calgary league team Pi is a regular contender in the CUA’s A-league finals.

“It’s been a wonderful ride all along,” Friesen says. “Now, with kids of my own, I want them to have the chance to experience just how awesome playing Ultimate really is.”

Not to mention, Calgary has some catching up to do.

“We have great youth programs going in Vancouver, Winnipeg and Toronto already,” Friesen notes. “Calgary needs to count itself in that elite group.”

A key to the program’s success will be the local buy-in and support from ultimate fans both on and off the fields.

“It’s vitally important to have our whole Ultimate community embrace this program,” Friesen says. “The kids need coaches and mentors and we’ll need lots of help. We need everyone to pitch in.”

When asked what the future holds for Calgary’s Juniors program, Friesen was enthusiastic about its potential.

“We’ve got a new crop coming up who are learning fast.,” he says. “This group is a bit younger to start with (Gr. 9s), but they will have the advantage of four years together. Look for them at CUC 2012 as solid contenders.”