Last week, the Manhattan High School Ultimate Club took part in its first official competition of the year. The team competed against a familiar foe, Flint Hills Christian School. The Indians delivered a devastating blow to the Warriors, defeating them in a 15-3 blowout. The team went into the match with high expectations, and it came away satisfied.

“I had high hopes for the Flint Hills Christian game,” club president John Benfer said. “It was a solid performance by us Indians. Really, we just executed really well.”

For many of the club members, the competition was a chance to shake off any potential rust that they may have accumulated in the offseason. However, led by a group of veterans, the team appeared well-disciplined and dominant. Despite the windy conditions, the team rarely committed a turnover. The group also developed valuable team chemistry in the process.

“It went great,” junior Sam Nelson said. “The only problem was the wind.”

Juniors Benfer, Colin Beauregard, Greg Woods, Kyle Thompson and Colt Joyce are just a few of the major veteran contributors that have already made an important impact this season. However, up and coming freshman also have the attention of the group. Five freshman attended the Flint Hills competition, an impressive showing.

One of the primary reasons for the team’s effectiveness on the field is the practice that goes on throughout the week. Led by an experienced coach, Shawn Kokegne, practice is used as a valuable opportunity for improvement. Professional drills and activities solidify the team’s commitment to winning.

“We have many drills that help us with throwing and catching. Four corners, dish drills, and also a special drill to emphasize running through the disc when you catch it,” Benfer said. “You always want to run through the disc so that it doesn’t get batted away by the defender.”

While the team had a nearly spotless performance, it stills sees many possibilities for improvement.

“Some of our timing with our cutters could be improved a little bit,” Benfer said. “We need to make sure our defense stays solid and not to let off, having a good mark on the guy with the disc, aiming low, and getting better handle movement.”