What is Goaltimate?
Fast-paced and physical, it is the half-court game of ultimate. Continuous play and a shorter stall count give players a more aerobic workout, and emphasizes multiple quick passes over hucks. With only four players per team on the field at once, and hockey-style subbing, every player is guaranteed to be involved with the game or play at hand.
Goaltimate has the same base rules as ultimate: move the disc from person to person to score in the goal area, players must stop and set a pivot foot while in possession of the disc, no intentional fouling or stripping of the disc. However, the below are key differences…
1. 4 on 4
Teams play 4 v 4, with hockey style subbing. The player coming off must touch the incoming sub, who waits in the sub box until touched.
2. Stall Count of 5
Any defender can count the stall, “stalling” one to five. If two defenders count at once, the lower count stands.
3. Scoring
One point is awarded for a completed pass that travels through the hoop and is caught in the goal area by your teammate. Two points are awarded if the disc is thrown from the clear box.
4. Turnovers
Whenever a turnover happens, the possession changes, and the new offensive team must ‘clear’ the disc by completing a pass to a teammate inside the clear box, and can then attack the goal.
5. Clearing
“Make it take it” rules apply, so if you score – your team must clear the disc and then you can attack again
6. One Way Through the Hoop
The disc can only go through the hoop in 1 direction, if you throw it through backwards (from behind the hoop, towards the clear line) – it’s a turnover
7. Screens are Legal
Setting a static screen is legal (think basketball).
8. Three Seconds
No camping in the goal area or key area. The other team can count “Goaltending one, two, three”. Still inside at three is a violation. To reset the count, touch down outside both areas.
9. No Goaltending
Goaltending is not allowed. Defenders in the goal area or key area must stay within arm’s reach of a player they’re guarding, or the offense can start a goaltending count.
10. Game Length
A standard game is 35 minutes: two 15 minute halves and a 5 minute halftime. Games can also be played to a set score. A tie at the end of time goes to sudden death, 3 v 3, next score wins.
For more, see the USA Goaltimate Official Rules (v2.1).