Send 'em To Hell - Regionals 2008

The 2008 Great Lakes Open Regional Championships
Detroit, MI
April 26th - 27th

As mentioned before, on this very blog, there were egregious amounts of exciting plots being played out this weekend in Detroit during the 2008 Great Lakes Regional Championships. For some, the weekend was a resounding success. For some others, the weekend signified a catastrophic meltdown. It was intense, well fought, and exciting for all. To be one of the final 16, from all of Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois, to still be standing, duking it out, is an accomplishment in itself. But being happy with that accomplishment, and wanting to do more, is in the end, what separates the men from the boys.

FRIDAY NIGHT

Ghetto Force embarked for Detroit in the early evening hours on Friday. The team caravan, leaving in 5 cars, made a pit stop en route to Michigan at the Elzey residence, where the classy men of Ghetto were graciously treated to delicious brats, burgers, and quite possibly the best, prepackaged store bought chocolate chip cookies ever. The Kozby Kid managed a 4 course meal on cookies alone. Luckily, with the arrival of the Chosen Son Evan Corcoran, everyone was treated to a nice desert of Penguin Hockey. Backed with lively debates about how Mario Lemieux would kill Wayne Gretzky in a bar fight, a final goal and an exciting Penguin win prefaced the weekend with some good vibes. Repping Squirrel Hill, Corco's weekend was off to a swell start.

As the train of D-I Ultimate athletes (yes, D-I ONU) left the wonderful hospitality of Mr. and Mrs. Elzey, everyone embarked for the Motel 6 in Michigan. Everyone arrived swiftly, save for some nasty traffic which was only properly navigated by Joel Brand...who bypassed the clogging by utilizing crafty illegal u-turns and the cutting off of irate mini-vans while careening by Eminem's house on 8-Mile road. Nonetheless, the team arrived safe and sound, and Shanikwa promptly checked us in under the Motel 6 guarantee of getting your room key in under two hours.

While guys dropped their bags off, everyone reconvened in Papa Corc's room for the ceremonial Pre-Regional talk. A team sporting only 4 losses, Ghetto Force had set a high goal from August of 2007 - to make Top 8 at the Regional Championships. With that goal firmly in place, Steely Corc embarked on a whimsical talk about using Jedi-Defensive powers to bring the Noob Stamp. Unfortunately, the loss of Jeffrey Giese, who was hanging out with living Saint Donna Giese, left everyone thinking of what awkward comment Kid Ic would say at that moment. Realizing the team needed to focus, the Secret Weapon was revealed. Over-nighted from Sir Budd Nerone in Colorado, (for a whopping $16.00) the surprise Secret Weapon was brought into the room still contained in its original Federal Express packaging. Corboy, the guardian of the secret, began to read the hand written note Budd had included. Touching on subjects ranging from Hoover Vaccuums to 11th Edition Rules Committee members, somehow Budd's voice rang through and spoke volumes to the team. What it spoke, is still yet to be determined. However, after flipping and flopping and turning pages, Corboy concluded the letter and pulled out THE Secret Weapon. No, it wasn't a Harry Potter Cloak of Invisibility. It was better!! Just what every team needs before Regionals, an original copy of Meatloaf's Bat out of Hell III cover! Signed on the back by Buddly, the cover was meant to depict the release of the Ghetto Force Monster. And from this inspiration, Ghetto decided to honor Meatloaf, and Budd, by rallying around the weekend's cry to "Send em' to Hell". With sugarplum fairies and bats out of hell in our minds, the Ghetto Force members retired to their Motel Sicks beds in an attempt to get enough shut-eye before the 9:00 am showdown with North Park. Sleep would be sparse, as the energy was high.

SATURDAY MORNING

As everyone awoke, the team outfitted itself with black shorts and black jerseys before boarding the cars and heading to the fields. Taking the day on as a challenge, the team had internalized that today's first game was the most important of the season. Approaching the Crane-infested, drunkenly lined fields, Ghetto was one of the first teams to arrive. Again indicating the growth of the program in the last three years. After getting some throwing in and finding out which field the team would be on, Ghetto was cleated up, and more than ever, locked and loaded.

Taking a 1/2 time Brian Belkin warm up job, Ghetto took full advantage of the added time to mentally prepare and physically prep for the battle that was ahead. Having watched the game footage, Dayton knew full well what North Park brought to the table, and as a #6 seed, NPU had come to win. As the wind began to pick up, the two squads split the field in an effort to run some early drills. On the NPU side of things, the team focused on 30 yard + throws to streaking cutters, while on the UD side, closer in and out cuts were the preference. It was a meeting of two hungry teams, who knew full well that both were bringing different styles to the table.

DAYTON v NORTH PARK, 9:00 am

Getting pulled to, the Dayton offense would start the game. With the sun not fully risen, the battle begun. As Dayton penetrated the field utilizing in cuts, a quick strike by Hoover was followed by a beautifully placed turn-over on an errant continuation throw to T-Nizzle. It would be the first of 264 turnovers by Hoover on the day. Welcome to Regionals. It was the first point and Dayton was already in fear of being broken. Luckily, the D set appropriately, and Dayton was able to take a quick turnover and convert for the first score of the day.

Yet, as they had in the prior week, North Park was experienced and knowledgeable. It wasn't but a few minutes later that the game had been matched. And, minus some well placed hucks, and a couple unsuccessful upwind runs, the beginning of the game was on-serve. The wind, proving to cause problems for both sides, was to be reckoned with. And almost as though everyone knew it, someone was going to break up wind. Finally, with the score tied at 3s, the Brand to Hayson connection was made during the D point, and the first upwind break was earned by Ghetto, 4-3. Now, to capitalize, the D would have to be gotten, and Dayton would have to punch another in, with the wind to our backs. Luckily, with T Knight marking and some nifty D's from Krissek poaching in as a wing, the turnover was received and Dayton took advantage of the wind and marched the disc upfield for the score, 5-3 Dayton. Points again would be traded, and Dayton, fully in control of the momentum, would take half 8-5.

After half, there would be more of the same, lots of scores with the wind. Yet there was a looming feeling from the sideline that either North Park would get a break, or Dayton would begin to run away with it. And luckily, Dayton brought the hot O-line to the battle, and the Magnificent 7 decided it was more fun to score, and that getting broken is more fun when it's avoided. With points being traded, Giese decided to give Mrs. Giese, who had brought plenty of rations to the Ghetto sidelines, a nice thank you. As the D-line pulled, an errant offensive throw was given up and Dayton began to take the disc upwind again. As the disc reached North Park's endzone, the disc was quickly swung from Corc to Corboy to Hoove to T Knight, who had executed a sick nasty break side cut, who proceeded to give Giese his opportunity to shine by hitting Kid Ic in the chest for a fully horizontal break side upwind break. All of which Mrs. Giese thoroughly enjoyed.

With another break under Ghetto's belt, the taste of victory was close. So Mr. T, normally quite modest, decided to get down with his bad self. After getting a turn, T received the disc and showing his underrated handling skills, he dropped the meanest flick fake of the weekend, officially putting his mark on the ground in an obliterated state of decay. T, relishing his accomplishment, made quick work of the opportunity by hitting Double D's will a fully break side backhand, who worked the disc upfield getting it to Corc and then The Show for the 2nd half of the upwind break, again furthering Dayton's lead. Now at 13-8, Dayton's D-line was enjoying the moment until the Bull Dog came on the field and outwardly announced the score, claiming it'd be a bad omen if the game was brought to 13-9 (the same score Illinois rebounded from when they upset NPU). The line, displeased with his superstitious naiveté, berated him for his insolence and forced him into Ultimate exile for his life. As fate would have it, Foor's superstitious blunder didn't have any affect on the game, and points would be quickly traded to 14-10.

With Dayton receiving, the Universe O line was sent in to finish the business. Again relying on vicious in-cuts, the squad knew the end was near. Closing the game in a fury of swings and strikes, Dayton's O-line got the disc to Giese-Unit, who, by an act of God, managed to punch in the final score, capping a 15-10 upsetting of the #6 seed.

Air Alert. Saturday morning practices. Dealing with Jeff. It had all paid off.

Ghetto Force, a team that hadn't made any noise for a decade, was again back on the Regional scene and making waves. It's one of the greatest moments in Ghetto Force history. Against all the naysayers and trash talkers, Dayton, as the #11 seed, shut out all the talk and spoke more volumes in one game then any shit that can be said on RSD. Case closed. North Park has outstanding talent, extremely gifted handlers, and what seems to be a really tight knit unit. We knew it'd be a tight game, and to have beaten a team of such caliber, is what made that moment special. Congrats to them on making their first Regional, and all the best to them in the future, it's definitely a program to be on the look out for.

However, as all this was going on, and Dayton was making monumental steps as a program, there was also other major news within the Region. The East Plains, which for those of you not in the know, GOT COMPLETELY SHAFTED IN THE SEEDINGS! There was all sorts of hype about the Central Plains and blah blah blah. Well what happened by 10:30 Saturday morning? OSU, Dayton, and Miami had all won their games. Just to save everyone some quick math, the Central Plains' 6 teams dropped seed by a total of -13 spots. The East Plains' 7 teams, obviously well underrated, pushed up and broke seed by +18 spots. What more can you say? Oh yea, maybe EAST - PLAINS - EAST - PLAINS - EAST - PLAINS!!!

With Meatloaf fueling the fire, Dayton had unleashed a Rush-sized serving of hater tots for breakfast, and everyone, from the parents to the players, was pumped. Dayton was moving on to the Quarterfinals.

DAYTON v NOTRE DAME, 11:30 am

Reaching the Quarterfinals, something Ghetto hasn't done in nearly a decade, again showcased the growth of the program the tenacity to make things happen. After planning out where the team wanted to be way back in August, everything was falling into place like clockwork. And now, Ghetto was going to get to face up against Notre Dame's Ultimate juggernaut, Papal Rage.

Notre Dame, ranked 24th in the country and the #3 seed overall in the tournament, had only 5 losses coming into the weekend (all against the highest caliber teams). And, since the team only allows you to play if you're beastly and over 6'0'' tall, Notre Dame appeared to be a hurdle that Ghetto hadn't faced yet in the season.

However, as the game began, it quickly became apparent that Ghetto was facing a mental challenge, and early in the game, things seemed like they were going in Ghetto's favor. With some sick D's and well placed puts, all of a sudden, Ghetto was up 5-2. With the D line coming in, an outstanding pull put Notre Dame near their endzone, where a quick drop left Ghetto in prime position to extend their lead. Unfortunately, a caught hammer for the score was brought back do to a stall count, which, in the scheme of things, was all ND needed to get back on track. Making quick work of the disappointed Ghetto D-line, ND rebounded, bring the score back to 5-3, and Papal Rage was off to the races.

What separates the good teams from the great teams, oftentimes isn't talent or style or intensity. At a certain level, those aspects begin to become strong across the board, no matter the program. But what really can separate a program is mental toughness. Notre Dame had been here before. They'd played tight games throughout the season against the best in the nation, and had been to the GL Quarterfinals the last three years. Dayton, on the other hand, had played predominantly Sectional-esque opponents during the season, and didn't have a single player on the team who'd ever been to Quarters. And in the end, that experience is what made the difference in this game.

Although Ghetto was up to start, Notre Dame relied on their poise and experience to mentally pressure Ghetto. And, with little comparable experience to fall back on, Dayton was sucked out of the game during the second half. ND seemed to have flipped a switch, and Ghetto couldn't quite respond. Notre Dame took the game 15-6.

Although the score wasn't where any Ghetto member wanted it to be, the experience was awesome. To have made it to Quarters, and to know that this young program (basically returning almost everyone next year) can compete at this level speaks volumes. There are lessons to be learned, and knowledge to bad. Ghetto's time in the Championship Bracket in '08 will be utilized to better the program in the future. This is for sure.

DAYTON v OHIO NORTHERN, 2:00 pm

Having sustained the first loss of the weekend, Ghetto was now relegated to the 2nd place bracket, in an effort to keep the dream alive in the double-elimination format. Ironically, as the East Plains had dropped a bomb in the first round of the day, more East Plains "pwnsaucing" continued in the 2nd round of the day. Although Miami and Dayton sustained losses, Oberlin had beaten North Park, Bowling Green had beaten Chicago, and OSU had beaten Michigan State. The other two East Plains teams, Ohio University and Ohio Northern, had dueled to Universe Point where after a hard cap controversy, ONU came out the victor 12-11.

Having won that game, ONU had earned the right to play the #11 seed overall in Dayton. As Sectional rivals, the orange glow of ONU's jerseys seemed to be all to familiar. Running hybrid, Dayton didn't want any part of some cross-sectional tomfoolery, and made a commitment to expose ONU's ever present array of strategic loopholes.

As the game started, Ghetto took the field like a lax group of players who expected to roll through a game with one hand tied behind their back. Obviously, it's a dangerous stance to take, a la North Park. However, with less than stellar effort, Ghetto came out on top early, took a couple breaks, and was up 5-2. Although Coach Pak and Mack were making every effort to fire up the sidelines, the wheels just seemed to be running on cruise control. D's were coming and points were being scored, but Dayton just seemed to be getting them through the fundamental faults of ONU....not so much through pressure or energy.

Then, ONU took a huck deep immediately after a pull, and Coach Ed Mack went ballistic. Knowing full well how easily tides of games can turn, he was putting his heart and soul into energizing the Ghetto lines. Unfortunately, the team still continued to run on autopilot. Dayton, receiving the pull, began working it downfield when the ONU defense fell apart and the O was in a foot race to score. Taking it across the field, Hoover swung to Corcoran, who, while sporting the backwards Rush hat (I STILL choose Free Will), nearly immediately ripped an open side flick for the score.

However, as soon as the throw was released, ONU's Texas-sized punk thought it in the best Spirit of the Game to battering ram Capitan Corc during his follow through. Not only was it unbelievably dangerous, it was completely deliberate and utterly intentional. There are a lot of asses in the sport of Ultimate, but this kid, he's pretty freaking high up there. To fully be aware that you're going to commit a foul, endanger another player, break every rule that Ultimate has been founded on, and still follow through with it, is absolutely outrageous. To the player, his coach, and anyone that condones this style of Ultimate, you should be ashamed. For a sport trying to grow, you're the leach that sucks the fun and spirit from this game. Get off our turf.

Corc, who's Ghetto thick and thin, wasn't about to play games and immediately stepped up and called this punk out. It might not have been his best display of emotion and spirit, but lets be honest. When someone plows and hacks you intentionally, you're instincts are going to turn to intensity, not so much passive aggression. And, Ghetto, showing its true colors, had its captain's back fully.

Coach Mack, stepping in appropriately, helped defuse the situation and separate the lines and the tension. ONU took a time out, hoping that Ghetto's new found fire would ware off, and Ghetto went to a huddle to get everyone on the same page. Ghetto plays Ghetto Ultimate. We're never going to stoop to some lower level, and that was reiterated throughout the time out. However, our energy had been down, and now it was exploding, and Captain Rush wanted all of it to be used on the field. Coming out of the time out, Mohawks were flaring and eyes were burning with the passion for D's and obliteration. Corboy, who lives with Corcoran (they may be legally brothers, we're not sure yet) was about to go ape shit as a form of repayment for the prior shenanigans. This, for those that aren't getting the drift, translated into full tilt sexy time layout Ds....4 of them in the first half alone. Ghetto, hopping on board the Corboy Pain Train, rampaged a couple breaks in a row and rolled ferociously to half.

In the second half, the punishing would continue. Walcheezian (who secretly has a tat that says I HEART CORC) made a conscious decision to start playing Ultimate beyond the realm of physical possibilities, and began the 2nd half storm by going Mr. Bombastic on his pulls. One of which, yes, was dropped (Karma anybody?). Ghetto worked in every player on the team, and in doing so, gave everyone an opportunity to consume Ultimate revenge. One of the most bloodthirsty was Mastro Leggings Josh Foor, who came on for a D point starving for action as his leggings efficiently wicked to the 5th dimension. His appetite was only furthered when he realized the aforementioned jerk-off had come back into the game (Again, a weak move on their part...why play a guy with such poor spirit that doesn't apparently represent your program? Weaksauce.). Foor, disapproving of his being on the field, began to think hard on the subject. In the end Foor, decided to celebrate Festivus by doing a defensive two-step on this kid, exclaimed to the line "I've got him." As the point progressed, 4$ let his Meatloaf powers coax this kid into making an in-cut. Bad decision. Foor, releasing all hell, put the fully horizontal lay out D hammer down, proving once and for all, Ghetto hits 'em where it hurts. Unlike this kid, who just hits.

This act of fully committed forced penance was greatly appreciated by the sidelines, especially by The Admiral. Knowing what great titillation comes with sick D's, The Admiral stepped in and laid a sick nasty foot block down. The ONU handler, realizing foot block egg had just been smeared all over his face, quickly thought about what he should do, and called a foul....naturally. As he explained his case, he mentioned that after he let go of the disc, he hit Pat's foot with his hand. WHAMMY! As soon as he said that, the 11th Edition aficionados of Ghetto Force pounced. Having just articulated that the throw was off and not affected by Patricio Del Toro, the 11th Edition quotes began to fly, and the D was rewarded. Revenge, is a disc best served on Pat's foot.

After the D, Ghetto continued to ride the defensive train to Pleasure Town. From there on out, everyone chipped in the Defense Fund for the Support of Evan Corcoran and Ghetto rolled to a 15-7 win.

DAYTON v NORTHWESTERN, 4:30 pm

This would be the final game of the day for both teams. With the 2nd place bracket being played out, the winner of this game would get a shot at Ohio State Sunday morning. The loser would have a shot to play for the 7th place.

Having dropped two key playmakers, Dave Hayson and Joel Brand, by this point in the day, Ghetto was beginning to wear down, and Northwestern (the only Central Plains team to break seed) was obviously going to be a difficult opponent.

The two teams, playing in one of the most ferocious crosswinds ever, were in a battle for momentum. The team that could jump out in front would have a clear advantage. And unfortunately, Northwestern was the team to jump out early, starting the game with 4 consecutive breaks.

It was a horribly sloppy beginning, for which Ghetto paid a hefty price. Although the turn-heavy game got within 2 and 3 points, Northwestern kept the momentum throughout, and never relinquished the pressure. There were of course the wind-induced highlights. Some notables include Lebron Corcoran (or Beau Corcoran if you prefer) going up for an errant disc, which resulted in more hangtime than most birds can handle....which he followed up with prettiest strike throw ever. How pretty you ask? lets just say, that the marker turned, watched the disc fly, and proceeded to say 'whoa'. Following Evan's lead, The Show decided to hop on the highlight reel by bringing a sick nasty catch layout D. With all that sexiness though, Dayton's lines were getting haggard and the flow never piqued. Northwestern took the game, 15-10.


SATURDAY NIGHT

With trail mix in hand and the Gatorade Bazooka provided sustenance, Ghetto gathered around to relish in what was truly a great day. Sure, 3-1 would have been better, but 2-2, with an upset over the #6 seed, tends to leave a pretty good taste in your mouth. Everyone huddled around Corcoran as he sang lyrics to Peg, and we all thanked the parents for their constant support. Without the support of our friends and family, Ghetto wouldn't be all that it is. Everyone congratulated each other on an awesome day and expressed how we should all be pumped to take on Michigan State the next morning in the 7/8 game.

Getting to play national caliber teams truly shows how far Ghetto has come. A couple years ago, Dayton couldn't place in the Top 20 at Sectionals. Now, Ghetto is not only making Regionals, but coming and playing, and in some cases beating, the top Regional contenders. It's an awesome feeling to know your efforts are producing results, and unlike the other half of the teams heading home, you and your boys get to wake up on Sunday morning and hit the pitch. Most don't get that satisfaction.

Ghetto broke it out one last time, and everyone cleaned up their garbage as we made ways to our cars en route to the showers. A couple cars headed off quickly, in an effort to clean speedily so the team could head off to dinner promptly. The last two cars, Ed Mack's and The Brand's stood around and relished in each other's presence. Corco did some odd dancing while reciting lyrics to Steely Dan. Addison asked what everyone's favorite Rush song was. Andy asked if anyone knew who Lucius Delicious was. Oh silly Andy.

Wait, who the hell is Andy?! Literally, as the two cars were hanging out, laughing and talking, this guy named Andy pulled up in a jeep and hopped out. Noticing our flawless Dayton Ultimate Nike swag, he stopped to give us some news. Although, we were pumped to battle it out for 7th place, former national powerhouse Michigan State, was feeling a tad wimpy and decided to skip town and not return. Even better, they really didn't care to tell anyone, other than a couple people, one of which was Michigan State grad (and pseudo-T.D.) Andy. The news was a major disappointment. Playing on Sunday is a big accomplishment, and it's a serious bummer when a team backs out like that. Especially when the team in question is SO close to the tournament. It's not like they drove 7 hours from Illinois or anything.....it was Michigan State! Anyway, their loss. It would have likely been a great game, and it's too bad they didn't want to play it.


With the news coming that we weren't going to be getting up early to play ringing fresh in our ears, our attentions turned to celebrating. After get the whole crew cleaned up, Ghetto hit the road with a Red Robin in sight. The entire squad, including family, alum, and friends, were all in attendance. The group, with much thanks to the Giese and Maloney family, was able to eat on a picked up tab....to have dinner paid for, was really a treat. Starting a new tradition, the entire group indulged in high-fives and cheers prior to the meal, in what was a classic moment for all past, present, and future members of the program.

Unlike teams that deal with scholarships, or money, or politics, Ghetto Force really is a family. Made up of players, alum, parents, siblings, friends, and supporters, Ghetto Force has again become known in the realm of Ultimate, but more importantly, has instilled a bond in all of its members thats beyond anything I can articulate here. Not much beats winning, that's for sure. But beyond the final scores, getting 7th place, or anything like that, nothing beats being able to spend time with your best friends. To accomplish goals, work hard, share the blood, sweat, and tears, all with your closest group, is really what it's all about.

It was an amazing weekend for Ghetto Force.

To all the friends, family, and other supporters, all of Ghetto Force thanks you.

And to you, the members of Ghetto Force, those in attendance and those not, just look at what we did this weekend. Look at what we can do, and how when we set a goal, how we can reach it. This is an absolutely amazing time to be part of this program. Enjoy every minute of it, because it doesn't get any better than this!!

Welcome To The Show

Ladies and Gents.
Young and Old.

Welcome, to the biggest weekend of the year! Oh yes, it's that time again. When Spring is always warm, when grass is green, and the Ultimate....oh the Ultimate!

The 2008 Regional Championships are upon us, and as it is every year, the most magical weekend is sure to produce excitement!

With 16 of the Midwest's finest converging on Harland, Michigan. From teams in the Top 10 of the nation, to teams making their first Regional appearance, to teams looking for vengeance...Regionals got just a little bit of everything. Think I'm exaggerating? Think again.....have a sneak peak at a couple of the scripts unfolding this year at the 2008 Great Lakes Regional Championships:

1. Michigan - ranked number one in the Region...they may have the most impacting and important win of the entire season, across the nation...they broke Wisconsin's perfect record, and are looking to have a go with them again at Nationals.

2. Illinois - just a couple questions arose after Illinois won the Sectional Championship....on double game point...at 17-16...after being down 13-9...yea, there are just a few questions floating about one of the strongest teams in the nation.

3. Notre Dame - with only 5 losses, those in the know are still claiming Notre Dame is underrated...however, they showed signs of being susceptible to defeat when North Park took them down in the Central Plains Semifinals...the 3rd seed has just a chip on their shoulder coming into the tournament.

4. Ohio State - Nationals last year. Check. Nationals this year. Most don't seem to think so...however, Pb's got as much talent as anyone in the Region, and they always look primed for success after Sectionals...can they make it two in a row?

6. North Park - Nearly winning the Sectional Championship made a lot of noise. They've got a wealth of veterans looking to go out with a bang...can they wear the Cinderella slipper?

8. Miami of Ohio - Two top-tier collegiate and club players, Josh Findley and Matt Mastrantuono are wrapping up their college careers this year...they're surrounded by youthful excitement and plenty of speed...can they make a final push? Many think they could be a dark horse.

10. Indiana - Um, yea. National Championships last year...this year, they about didn't make it out of Sectionals. Yet this Central Plain 6th place finisher has a lot to prove...especially since they're ranked in front of 6 other Regional teams. Has Indiana dropped off? Or is Indiana back for more?

There's so much to be looked at and analyzed, but when it comes down to it, everyone in the Region is going to have to bring it. No matter how much people debate Series formats, the bottom line is teams have to win. If you want to make it through, you've got to beat teams. This year's GL is primed to be exciting, and no matter how things pan out, everyone is hungry....

For all your Regional needs, check out this site:

The 2008 Great Lakes Open Regionals Site

2008 Great Lakes Regional Teams

As of Sunday, April 20th, the final teams to receive bids for the Great Lakes Regional Championships were confirmed. These 16 squads, coming from the East Plains, Central Plains, and Michigan Sectionals, will converge in Detroit this weekend. As a teaser for more things to come, here's a quick look at who will be representing each Sectional, in order of their Sectional finish.

The East Plains

1. The Ohio State University
2. Miami University of Ohio
3. The University of Dayton
4. Ohio University
5. Ohio Northern University
6. Oberlin College
7. Bowling Green State University

The Central Plains

1. The University of Illinois
2. The University of Notre Dame
3. North Park University
4. Northwestern University
5. The University of Chicago
6. Indiana University

The Michigan Sectional

1. The University of Michigan
2. Michigan State University
3. Kalamazoo College

Here are a wealth of worthwhile links:

• UPA Regional Championship Page

• The East Plains Sectional Championships Results Page

• The Central Plains Sectional Championships Results Page

• The Michigan Sectional Championships Results Page

East Plains Sectional Championships - Day 2

(click me to enlarge the Ultimate hotness)

After a thrilling finish on Saturday, the fine young gents of Ghetto Force were relegated back to the Foor and Simon households. The victorious warriors were treated to spaghetti, lasagna, pies, coffee cakes, salad, cookies, and host of other delicacies that can only truly be appreciated by starving college students. As all Ghetto Force members will tell you, it was an early night. Teammates, who will remain nameless, were falling asleep immediately following dinner. Guys were cuddled under blankets snoring deeply before 9:00 pm. All in all, no one even made it to the end of the Kansas v. UNC game, everyone was too exhausted. Thus, when Sunday morning rolled around, and the squad prepped for a 9:00 start, most players had completed close to, if not more, than 10 hours of sleep. It would be much needed.

As the team arrived to the field, the players were greeted with what was by far, the most beautiful day of 2008. After having played in absurd winds, cleating up in ice, and diving in mud baths, few things felt better than lacing up the boots under a gorgeous sun at perfect temperatures.

The team took a nice long warm-up jog to start the morning, and then proceeded to begin stretching in anticipation of the final pool play game against Berea College. Berea, who had put up decent fights against the other pool play seeds, was the final hurdle for Ghetto in a path to the East Plains Sectional Semifinals.

Round 5, Dayton v. Berea - Putting out a strong O-line, Ghetto was receiving the pull to start the game. As The Cactus Bomb, The Corc Bomb, and The Corb Bomb prepared to handle, the three were caught by surprise.....did Berea bring down a Zone defense?! Yes! It was glorious! After a handful of swings, the cup was shattered and Ghetto was off to the races. Rather than battling the D, Ghetto, all of a sudden, was battling each other, attempting to be faster and in better position than the next guy, in order to be the one to reel in, or throw for, the score. In a matter of seconds the disc worked the length of the field and was punched in easily. The first point easily set the tone for the rest of the game.

Knowing the day would be a full one, and with the sweet scent of blood in the air, all members of Ghetto Force decided to get in on the act. As if sharks circling, every member of Ghetto Forced played at least 4 points throughout the game, and no single player played more than 11. With the total team effort, the game was quickly pounded out, and the victory was secured at 15-7. Corcoran, upset with the duration of his early morning commute, released his frustrations in the form of 4 assists on the game. Always one to please the home crowd, J4 supported Papa Corc by adding 2 D's and 2 assists of his own. It was an efficient beat down that left the Championship Bracket waiting in the wings.

Ghetto, for the first time this millennium, had been a top seed in a Sectional pool, and as another first, proceeded to win the pool outright with a 5-0 record. As if mirroring the NCAA Championships' Final Four, The East Plains got it's #1 seeds right, and had all four (OSU, Miami, Dayton, Ohio U) winning their pools with perfect records.

Close friends, and former Cincinnati Hustle Club players Matt Mastrantuono and Addison Hoover had spoken just days before, mapping out the pool play scenarios and bracket possibilities. The gauntlet for a Miami (OH) v. Dayton rematch had been in the works since the seedings had been released. Mastro and Hoover had spoken early and often, knowing full well, that as long as both teams held up their ends, the semifinal would pit these two growing powerhouse programs. As always, the game would be intense, hotly contested, and painful. Both programs, built on strong Captain leadership and youthful enthusiasm, have helped reform the shape of the entire Section. What once was controlled by Ohio U and Oberlin, was now being taken by these two exuberant clubs. The programs, although always gunning for each other, have produced one of the most exciting and promising rivalries in all of the Great Lakes Region. And for spectators, other club teams, and fans, everyone would again be treated to a duel between the two.

East Plains Sectional Semifinals, Dayton v. Miami (OH) - Both teams took full advantage of the extra hour between final pool play games and the start of the Semifinals. From scrimmaging, to lengthy form running routines, the tension between the two squads was imminent before the game had even started. Both teams had been able to rest starters fairly well over the course of the weekend, and the game would be sprint-speed right out of the gates.

Just to switch things up, Dayton actually won a flip and would be pulling to start the game. With such a horrendous record of losing the flips, perhaps, in retrospect, we shouldn't have tried to win the flip, but nonetheless, the Ghetto D-line was pumped to get an opportunity to break the first point. As the pull was sent, the Miami O-line was working the disc until an untimely throw was met by The Show(off), who was fully ready to produce a personal highlight reel in the Semis. Working the disc backwards to The Accounting Guru, Anderson immediately dropped an ankle breaker and boarded his personal jetliner to the endzone. Corcoran, always one to oblige, released a ninja forehand (covering 75% of the field) hitting Anderson perfectly as he streaked through the back of the endzone. With the sidelines rushing the field, the break on the first point sounded the alarms and let everyone know, the game was (as always) going to be awesome.

Miami, cluttered with talented handlers and well coached cutters, was not to be outdone. After trading a couple points, Miami took full advantage of handler lapses of consciousness, and broke back. Back on serve, Miami was hungry for more. After another two breaks, Dayton, now down 5-7, looked to put an O-line on the field to stop the bleeding before half. Unfortunately, what may be a game changing point, the Dayton O turned the disc over in the endzone, giving Miami the opportunity to break upwind to take half, which they did. With the score at 8-5, both squads knew the game was far from over, but Dayton was slowly entering the hot seat, where quick, efficient strikes would have to be made. There could be no further delay, otherwise, the game would quickly be beyond reach.

Starting the second half, Miami kept the pedal to the metal, and continued to shut down handler swings and strikes. Utilizing turnovers, Miami extended the lead to 10-5. Then, through some superior coaching and strong on-field leadership, Dayton began to rebound. Scoring, and then earning the breaks, Dayton got the game back to 8-10. Miami's O-line, one of the strongest (and quickest) in the Region, knew full well they had to score. Utilizing a Mastrantuono deep look, Miami fired back by hitting the deep cut, 8-11. Dayton's O, which had consistently struggled the whole game, had another lapse, and gave up another break, 8-12. Though Dayton managed to punch another in, the momentum Miami had established proved to be too much. Miami finished the game with a downwind break, 9-15.

You have to hand it to them. They've played in high caliber tournaments, practiced hard, and Sunday was their day. Dayton, unsure how to handle a loss that deep into the weekend, needed to refocus, regroup, and get mentally prepared for the next game. The day was far from over, and Dayton, knowing full well they didn't want to start dropping in the Regional rankings, had games to be won.

As expected, OSU had quickly handled Ohio University in the other Semifinal, 13-7. OU, once a powerhouse known to consistently be challenging the top of the Sectional and Regional competition, seems to have slipped a bit this year. It's hard to say if it's a result of the "changing of the guard" of players, or other reasons. Nonetheless, OU barely made it out of their pool play, having two games (against Toledo and Xavier) go to Universe point. Though not a witness, rumor has it that Xavier actually punched in the winning score, only to have OU call it back on a travel. Xavier apparently slipped up, dropped the disc, and OU escaped pool play. Today, OU and Dayton would be meeting again in the game to go to the backdoor finals. The winner would get a chance to play the loser of the Championship game....whilst the current loser would be forced to play a game for 4th/5th place - something Dayton would not stand for.

Backdoor Semifinals, Dayton v. Ohio - From the get-go, the game was tight. After Dayton scored first, on a Jeff Giese miracle reverse-in-the-crotch-pancake-grab, to save Hoover's arse, OU retaliated with a monstrous run and huck offense. The two teams would battle back and forth the rest of the game. When one would produce a break, the other would respond. Dayton managed to catch a break late in the first half, taking it to halftime with an 8-6 lead.

After reasserting that much game was to be played, Dayton took the D-line to the field, ready for action. If the line could get a turn and score, the gap would start to widen. As the point commenced, somewhere around 15 turns occurred. Dayton would get a D, then work up field only to throw it away. OU would work it back, then throw it away. This repeated for sometime. As both sides tired, the mental game went away and both teams were guilty of atrociously sloppy play during the first point after half. Finally, as Dayton got the disc back, Double D Dave Hayson realized a physical break would be necessary to keep everyone on track. Calling a time out, Diesel Dave received acknowledgment at the middle of the field from his marker....who, being absurd, immediately claimed a turnover had occurred when Dave sat the disc down, citing his lack of "T hand motions". Long story short, OU was looking for a cheap turn, a fight ensued, lots of yelling followed, everyone became pissed, and disc shit hit the ultimate fan. The timeout was eventually granted, and play resumed, only to have Dayton AGAIN turn the disc over. The sidelines, all likely vomiting by now, were forced to stand aside and watch as OU, just minutes after attempting to enter the Ultimate Bush League Hall of Fame, punched in the score to bring it to 8-7.

The whole Dayton squad, furious about the previous point, vowed to get some and punch in the score. Working the O-line, Hoovapalooza met sights with The Kozby Kid in the front right corner of the endzone to push the lead back to 9-7. During the point, the cap had sounded, signifying that the 30 minute time-out argument had significantly shortened the duration of play.

OU, still pissed from the longest argument in history, took fire to the O-line and punched in another huck past the finger tips of Hoover, who was at this point royally pissed he wasn't on the field to use the voodoo fingers during the time-out argument. Luckily, Hobunk Hoovie, still trying to redeem his 6-turnover performance against Miami, would get another shot during the very next point. As Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch took the O-line, Dayton knew it'd need a score to remain in control of the game. Disc Magnet Mark, who was basically open the whole game, again produced light speed cuts, to which his markers figuratively said "screw this". As the disc was worked to midfield, Butter Ballz made eye contact with Hoove as he sprinted past. Butterflyz, having the touch of an angel, briskly feathered an extending flick to space. As Hoover reeled it in, he could see Marky Mark streaking down field. The duo, having performed impressive feats of ESP during Roll Call, both simultaneously knew that the bitches had to die. Hoover, sexually feathering the disc, launched a flick to the endzone leaving the biz to Mark, as he reeled it in while his defender walked to the sideline, literally saying "Screw This!".

With Dayton leading 10-9, the D-line was absolutely determined to not let the game go to another Universe point. But, determination only takes you so far. OU scored. 10-10, double game point.

By this point, all of Dayton's fans were dead. Most had suffered anaphylactic seizures trying to withstand the BGSU Universe point. Now, anyone that might still be watching was definitely dying from conniptions and heart explosions. From now on, Ghetto will have to provide warnings to onlookers - "entertainment may be too intense, too heart pounding, too downright ridiculous, for virtually anyone".

As the sidelines gripped their jerseys in an effort to wipe their sweaty palms clean, OU sent out their Universe D-line opposite from Dayton's Universe O-line.

Ghetto Force, receiving the pull, took the disc and began working up-field. Somehow (if you recall the details, post them in the comments section) Dayton gladly turned the disc over. As if things weren't intense enough, OU was now picking up the disc, with no more than 15 yards to the endzone. After a couple missed lay-out D attempts, some foul calls, and the like, OU was virtually in the same spot that they started in. They were violently against being too aggressive and turning the disc over, so essentially they kept swinging between two primary handlers, with little up-field movement. Then, just as the open side broke free, two swings were made, when all of a sudden, doink!, a handler put a wrap around forehand straight in the ground. Uber-turfness. Karma from the time-out fiasco? I'll let you decide.

Ghetto, as they had for majority of the weekend, wamp wamped the in-cut, focusing on hitting Mark-o-Matic roughly 15 times, as he's always open! Working the disc downfield, everything was a blur. From in-cut, to handler, in-cut, to handler, the disc just kept moving. Then, within an instant, Corco released an OI flick wrapping the sideline, to none other than Mark Anderson. It almost took a second for it all to settle in. Mark not only reeled in the score, he was in the endzone! That was it! He'd beaten his man, gotten free, and the P-Town Boy had put it right in his wheelhouse. Mark's defender had nothing left to do but exclaim, "SCREW THIS!".

To say it was a close call, or intense, or anything similar, wouldn't do the situation justice. Somehow Ghetto, again, had salvaged a close game on Universe point. As if Roll Call was some sort of pre-fabbed practice, everything we took away from that weekend, was used in the 2008 Sectional Championships. In just 8 days, Ghetto had played in 5 Universe point games, and amazingly, had won every single one.

With Mr. Anderson cleaning house and bringing in the final score, Dayton had secured a spot as the #2 or #3 seed at Regionals. All that was left was to change fields and meet up with Miami again (they had lost a good game, 15-9, to OSU). Ghetto Force, still a budding program with a wealth of young (often first year) talent, decided to approach this game with longevity in mind. With the 2 and 3 seed at stake, Ghetto made a conscious decision to weigh the different factors at hand. A win/loss, at this point, would only be the difference of a single place. On top of that, new players needed to gain time against a solid opponent before Regionals. On top of that, many of the primary O and D line players were running low on gas. On top of that, who knows. Basically, Dayton was ready to work in new lines and different lines. Those groups needed to get a feel for playing with each other, working together, all while head-to-head with a high caliber Miami squad. The score wasn't close, 15-4, but it was just what Ghetto needed to close the weekend out correctly. Guys got time against some of the best, and areas of improvement were readily located. So, even though Corco's brain was fried beneath 5 well layered hats, the weekend was a resounding success.

Ghetto had come, and done exactly what it was capable of. It was heart pounding, gut wrenching, amazingly fun, and absolutely fulfilling, all somehow amalgamated into one emotion.

The Ghetto Force of today, has come unbelievably far from the Ghetto Force of just a few short years ago. Think of this:

• Ghetto two years ago was a mixed, often low turn out squad.

• Ghetto today has high numbers, all guys, and is growing a program with strong A and B squads.

• Ghetto two years ago would have practices with 6 people playing hot box.

• Ghetto today has two coaches, a wealth of drills, and scrimmages more intense than some tournament games.

• Ghetto two years ago went 1-5 at the Spring Sectionals, only topping OSU-B by a point.

• Ghetto today earned a #1 seed in it's pool, made it to the Semifinals, and is now attending Regionals for the 2nd year in a row, leaving the Sectional in 3rd place.

GREAT WORK GHETTO FORCE!
DETROIT, HERE WE COME!

East Plains Sectional Championships - Day 1

Is there a College Ultimate weekend more exciting than Sectionals? I submit that there is not!

OK, there might be, but there's just something so beautiful about the kick-off to the College Series that's hard to articulate in words. But there's just something about it for a team like Ghetto Force, where in 2006, the program (playing mixed) managed just one win, against Ohio State-B, on Universe point. The very next year, the team showed up to the most miserable conditions in Versailles, OH, only to take the 5th of 6 bids to the Great Lakes Regional Championships. This year, of all things, Dayton came into the Sectional Championships as the 3rd overall seed (of 25...the nation's largest sectional) and the number 1 seed in Pool C. To many people's surprise, it seemed as though Ghetto Force sort of came out of no where....how all of a sudden had this team become the 3rd seed in this sectional? And did they really deserve it?? Many voiced opinions that clearly stated that Dayton's 3rd seeding, all though currently well coached and hosting a crop of young talent, would quickly be dethroned by the Ohio U or the like.

Nonetheless, there were a plethora of enthralling story lines all unfolding this weekend. From one of the Region's best handlers, Miami's Matt Mastrantuono, playing in his last college series, to the amazing uprise of a youthful Xavier program, looking to making Regionals, the East Plains provided a host of fun, strong, and intense matchups.

Dayton, holding the #3 seed overall, quickly looked at the 7 bids the Sectional would be getting, and firmly decided that holding or beating the seed were the only options. Slipping further down the list and succumbing to a lower finish (but still squeaking into Regionals) would not suffice. Last year was the time for thinking like that. Ghetto last year was just happy to get to Regionals. This year, Ghetto wanted to go and make an impact. And in order to do so, Dayton would have to finish as high as possible, in order to aptly establish a positive seed heading into Detroit. Many doubted, Ghetto believed. It could be done, it would be done.

Round 1, Dayton v. West Virginia - Wearing their sharp yellow jerseys, the Pool C 3rd seed of West Virginia unknowingly stepping into an early morning bear trap. Dayton-X, who had played WV at Romp in the Swamp, fell upon an untimely Sunday loss to WV to end their tourny weekend. Can anyone say revenge? No losses would be taken today. Ghetto awoke with an intense passion to gorge on the Pittsnogle Groupies (not the real team name) and to make an early Saturday point - Ghetto was here, and was here to give the business. Utilizing some much needed Foor family resting, Butters and The Haymaker arose with the intention of inflicting pain. With that intention, Butters dropped a sick 4 D's, 2 scores, and 1 assist in his first outing of the day. Mr Snuff, not to be outdone, decided to run around a little bit, and go ahead and score 4 goals and chip in a D of his own. Riding the back of a full team showing, Ghetto indulged in a freshly cooked early morning breakfast of champions, romping WV 15-3.

Round 2, Dayton v. Walsh - I love this crew. The Walsh guys, in their first ever semester of play, are rocking. Sure, they're still learning, a bit rough around the edges no doubt, but the passion and enjoyment is definitely there. Their attitudes are great, and they're out on the field looking to learn, compete, and have fun. Can you ask for more? Not only do they play tough, but they have team matching shorts....they're all set for National Championship dress regulations! It was a pretty straightforward game. Dayton brought a rough Man-D, and took full advantage of miscues and poorly placed hucks. Those turns turned quickly into scores and Dayton rolled swiftly to a full team decisive 15-3 win. It is worthwhile to note, that the boys of Walsh have obviously been raised well. At one point, The Show took an inadvertent pivoting elbow to the nose. With blood anxiously scurrying from his model-esque nostrils, Anderson had to leave the field, pissed about the elbow to the face, and pissed that his beautiful looks could be tainted. Who comes over to Mark in his time of need? None other than the Walsh-elbow-throwing-player's mother, with ice and cotton puffs in hand. Does it get any better?

Round 3, Dayton v. Denison - As a constant rival of years past, Denison has been known to give UD good games. One in particular was in the Spring of 2006, when the two teams went head-to-head for some Wright State tournament title. The game was close the whole way and ended up being won by Dayton, by a mere two points. Denison is fronted by strong handler/cutter Cory Hylton, and in general seems to have strong teams and a growing program. We'd roughly been aware of Denison at the OWU EMR Memorial tournament, unfortunately, our paths had not crossed, and Dayton would not see Denison in the Spring of 2008 till Sectionals. As the 1:30 start time commenced, it quickly became apparent that Ghetto was in complete control. Starting the game with a massive ankle-breaking fake out to simple swinging up wind score, the first point showcased Dayton's ability to quickly work over the Denison defense. The rest of the game would follow suit. Denison gave up 3 caught D's to FoorMoney, which helped translate into 3 caught scores from the K-State Killer. However, their strong showings were quickly overshadowed as the unveiling of The Family Connection was issued. Baybay and cousin (first year player) Pegasaurus connected for the assist and score on 4 separate occasions in this game. The Family Connection, coupled with a wealth of d's and Denison turnovers, helped fuel a 2nd half OATBAG and sound beating of 15-1. It's hard to say what's happened to former rival Denison. It wasn't long ago that these two teams had close games and a tight rivalry. Has the Denison program gone downward? Some may argue so. However, DFUC managed to pull a winning record of 3-2 in pool play....so it's hard to say if that's really the case. Perhaps the elevated Dayton program is really what it all comes down to.

Round 4, Dayton v. Bowling Green - BGSU, like Denison, has been a consistent program over recent years, of which Dayton has managed to butt heads with on numerous occasions. All though there seemed to be players in attendance for BG that may or may not have been eligible, bottom line was clear, Dayton was just one win shy from a perfect first day. To secure a spot in the Championship Bracket, Ghetto Force would need to play hard and fight well against the Pool C 2nd seed. BG, looking to make a fierce run to Regionals, obviously, would provide the stiffest and most competitive competition of the first day.

With things running smoothly for the first three games of the day, Ghetto surely knew the last Saturday game would be filled with excitement (new team motto - keep it exciting). However, none of the players, fans, or onlooking teams could have imagined what would ensue.

Dayton started out on top, initially taking the lead at 6-3. However, as if catching Dayton off guard, BG began to hit on consistent deep throws, confusing the Ghetto D. Moreover, relying on the strength of their predominant handlers, BG managed to continually run efficient offensive points and regularly convert on poor Dayton turnovers (the full team combined for an atrocious 18 this game). With half coming and going, it suddenly appeared as though Ghetto had lost control of the game, without knowing it! With Miami, the B-pool winners, finishing early and coming over to watch, it was to their surprise that upon arrival, they found their expected future opponent, in the University of Dayton, losing. Not just losing, but down by multiple scores, and seemingly out of gas.

Ghetto Force's sidelines were in shock. The on-field Ghetto players were in shock. And lastly, everyone watching quickly began to feel the presence of an astonishing upset quickly coming. With the Ghetto players already sweating blood, the far off sound of an air horn quickly signified a new dimension of pressure - the cap had sounded. As opposed to 15, the game had quickly added 2, and would be promptly finished at 13. Current score, BG 11, Ghetto 9.

Ghetto, receiving the pull, focused on getting one point at a time. The game, still faintly in reach, would have to start with a straight forward offensive possession. With some meticulous swinging and fierce in-cutting, Ghetto managed to punch in the offensive point, bringing the game to 11-10. Captain Corcoran, emphasizing focus and all out defense, rallied the troops to bring the pain on D. It would be an absolutely crucial moment, Ghetto HAD to get a D.

It didn't happen. As they had throughout the whole game, BG kept it's composure and punched in another score to bring it to game point. Ghetto was quickly seeing it's Top 3 finish at Sectionals being dashed. At 12-10, the insurmountable task of rattling off 3 scores in a row seemed to be too much.

With palms sweating and family members turning red in the face (literally), the pressure had amounted to heights unknown. In front of absolutely shocked players (namely the Miami crew that stayed around), Dayton received the pull, taking offense. Somehow, with tension building, Ghetto managed to get a timely score, keeping the hopes of a comeback still faintly alive.

At 12-11, Ghetto was completely at do-or-die. The D-line would have to make it happen, otherwise, the day would be done. With such promise at the start of the day, Ghetto was quickly beginning to envision the awful nature the rest of the day/night/weekend would take. This wasn't how things were supposed to play out, and the D-line committed to not giving up.

Pulling to BG, the D established. As the BG offense swung and moved the disc, everyone focused on what seemed to be an eternity of a point....when all of a sudden, the disc was on the ground. Either from a tough mark, or tough man D, a turn had been forced. Ghetto would establish the key handlers and, as talked about on the line, patiently work the in cuts and punch a score in the endzone. The first part of this plan seemed to be fulfilled aptly, as the disc was worked downfield with little hesitation. As Ghetto approached the endzone, it seemed like every player was holding their breath....with so many turns throughout the game, many on the endzone, would Ghetto stab themselves in the foot again? Yes! Everyone knows how Ghetto loves to keep things exciting, and exciting is an understatement. As an outside-in flick down the sideline missed the target, it seemed as though Ghetto had again foolishly missed the mark. That was until Brendan Corboy, the consummate professional of oral skills, called for the man, the legend Travis Knight. Mr. T, who had been looked off, was clearing out, when, by some source of wizardry, the disc was making a b-line for his, and his defender's, backs. Travis, reacting to the plea for help, turned to find the forehand approaching his unknowing defender. T, as the hardest worker in show biz, decided to give the people what they came for. Unleashing all fury, Travis lit fireworks for the onlookers, making a u-turn on a dime, and somehow managing to dive over his defender to save the disc, the score, and the game. As the sidelines rushed the field, it again was Mr. T, who, like a semi-truck driver, used the clutch and came through huge. The high fives were aplenty, and the emotions were flowing.

But the job wasn't done.

Dayton, through tenacity, some luck, and sheer will, was somehow still in the game. With things all tied at 12-12, Dayton again would be forced to bring the Universe D-line (for the 4th Universe point in just 7 days). The guys standing on the endzone line, prepared to attempt the unthinkable, seemed like old pros at the universe point thing...something like 4 of the guys, had been on every single Universe line to that point, and up till Saturday the 5th, were batting a thousand and had taken down and won the first 3 universe point games.

This was different though. BG would be pulled to, with the opportunity to control the disc and have the chance to immediately put it away. Furthermore, it seemed as though BG surely wouldn't let another opportunity slip away. And as the point began, it seemed as though BG would have it that way. They marched, and marched, and marched. Within 10 yards of the Dayton endzone, again, as if by some good karma, a turn was forced by shutting down the in-cuts and strengthening the marks. Dayton, with the disc lying on the ground, knew what it was about to do. All Dayton needed was to swing, hit the in-cuts, swing some more, and repeat, until the opposing endzone was reached. With two swings completed, the disc was found on the flick side, where as if by some horrendous karma, it was turfed badly. The players and onlookers all felt the tension increase. Unbelievably, Dayton had somehow come back from 12-10, and made it 12-12, then forced a turnover to get the disc on universe point - and given it right back.

With BG threatening, the look on every Dayton player's face was disbelief. How had they come so far, and managed to give the disc to BG with no more than 20 yards to get to the endzone?!? The O and D set up and BG began to work the disc again, determined not to slip up. As the in-cuts again were shut down, the primary BG handler made eye contact with a cutter, and they both immediately knew it was time to punch it in. As the outside in backhand was released, it was a footrace. The disc, passing the endzone line, was being quickly attacked by the BG offensive player, and his defender, Mark Anderson. Mark, taking the more direct line, went down the sideline, while the BG player came from over his right. As everyone stood and watched, everyone knew the game was about to be decided. As both players left their feet, The Show, as always, lived up to his name and put one of the most tremendous layout d's of the tournament on the disc. Smacking the disc past the BG player, Mark Anderson had successfully saved the game and made one of the most outstanding Ultimate plays most Dayton players have ever seen. Oh wait, a detail has been left out.....FOUL! It was like nails on a chalk board. Boos ensued, a captain's hat was thrown, and furious players everyone were dumbfounded.

HOW COULD THIS BG PLAYER CALL A FOUL!?!?!?

Mark Anderson, to everyone watching, clearly had position on the disc, and if there was ever a foul based on contact, it would have been the misplaced BG player colliding with Mark. The Foul heard 'round Granville had been committed. Anderson was in shock. Ghetto Force was in shock. Most of the BG players were in shock. It just seemed fake....but in some regards, that's how a lot of the calls had been made over the course of the whole game.

Mark, knowing full well that it was clean, immediately began to contest and plead his case. This call could not stand, it was highway robbery. Knowing all that rode on the call, the two hottest negotiators not in mergers and acquisitions, rose to the occasion. Corboy and Hoover, stepping up to the plate, began to break down the play, and using rational, positive discussion techniques to approach the situation. Lines like "you have a valid point" and "lets discuss how you both approached the disc" were used. Everyone knew that all the stops had been pulled when Hoover, from over 20 yards away, decided to unveil his voodoo powers embodied in the dual timed, double three-finger O-hands. Between the magic hands and Corboy's unusually calm tone of voice, every approach had been used, and the negotiators had nothing left to give. It was universe point, and the disc would be contested, and BG would regain possession. That was, until the BG-foul caller, somehow (we'll never know), understood everything with a new found clarity. Karma, perhaps. Voodoo hands, maybe. Positive Corbizzle body language, couldn't have hurt. Honestly, who knows what happened, other than this guy turned to the field, stood upright, and in succinct phrasing, simply said, "No call".

It was as though the heavens had opened. Dayton didn't even know how to react.....did Ghetto just get the disc? Did Mark's amazing D count? Did he just give up the call on universe point?!?! Yes, yes, and yes. It was so amazing, a Miami Captain, who was watching, may or may not have lost control of his bodily functions.

The new life was awarded, and Ghetto would not waste it. Picking up the disc, Papa Corc, with Corboy and Hoover as wingmen, hit every in-cut and marched the Burma Road of Ultimate, all the way to the endzone line. But of course, theatrics and excitement, up to this point, had not reached maximum levels. Ghetto, wanting to set the amps to 11, had to make this (if it's even possible) more heart pounding. As Ghetto swung the disc, no more than 5 yards from the BG endzone, everything collapsed. Corboy, being the flick handler, had been left for dead, and stranded on the right sideline. The count, like the tap of a slow drum beat, escalated slowly but surely. Before an open swing could save the day, Corboy's mark had reached 8, and everything was riding on it. Corboy, having flash backs to a week before, knew the disc must be thrown to the endzone and simultaneously, he'd have to somehow work in a quick Hail Mary. With unparalleled field vision, Corboy somehow saw the Gieseanator amidst all the endzone traffic, and at stall 9, released a OI bladey flick. The Geezer, who's as clutch as they come, kept his left eye on the line, and his right eye on the man (if that's possible). Somehow making the endzone bigger with each step, he took to the back of the endzone, and pancaked the final score just his defender gave everything to stop it. How it got there, how he reeled it in, how Ghetto didn't give it up, are all hard to comprehend. However, in that moment, it all had worked. The game, somehow, had been saved and won by Ghetto.

It was one for the ages, and in all honesty, it probably was one of the most gut-wrenching sporting events most Ghetto players have ever witnessed or participated in.

Somehow, through the roller coaster finish, Ghetto had completed the job, and wrapped up Day 1 with a 4-0 record. It wasn't pretty. It wasn't how it was supposed to be done. But the job got done, and Ghetto could breathe again.

Sunday would be a new day, and Ghetto somehow was in the right position to take on the rest of the tournament. It was an amazing end to an amazing first day. However, for Ghetto, it was just the beginning......