The Lot documentary: why this ultimate frisbee documentary matters

At TOKAY, we believe ultimate frisbee is more than a sport. It’s a culture, a movement, and a community with a story worth telling. That’s why we created “Projects We ❤️”, a blog series where we showcase powerful initiatives shaping the future and honoring the roots of ultimate. We’re not affiliated, just supporters of projects that strengthen the sport.

Today, we’re highlighting The Lot, a one-of-a-kind documentary that finally captures the full story of ultimate frisbee: how it started, how it evolved, and where it’s going.

Why telling ultimate frisbee story matters

The sport we play today, filled with universe points, layout blocks, and spirit circles, has a rich past that many players don’t know. Ultimate frisbee was born in 1968, and with it came a unique philosophy: self-officiation, inclusivity, and respect.

But here’s the thing: that story has never been told in full. There’s no single place where new players or curious outsiders can go to understand how ultimate came to be, or why it stands apart from every other sport.

The Lot aims to change that, not just for nostalgia’s sake, but to give our game the legacy it deserves.

What is The Lot? An Ultimate Frisbee documentary about the sport’s origins

Created and directed by Tony Leonardo, The Lot is the first-ever documentary project documenting the first 57 years of ultimate frisbee. From its first organized games at Columbia High School to its global presence today, The Lot captures:

• Interviews with early pioneers, many of whom still play
• Historical artifacts: photos, original rules, newspaper clippings
• Stories of growth, conflict, and culture
• Reflections on where ultimate is heading next

This isn’t a nostalgic recap, it’s a living archive. The goal is not just to look back, but to understand how ultimate’s identity was forged and how it continues to evolve.

Watch the trailer video

Or just follow The Lot updates directly → WelcomeToTheLot.com

What you’ll see in the documentary

The Lot combines historical research with personal testimony, offering insights into:

• The early days of ultimate: how and why it was born
• The development of self-officiated play and Spirit of the Game
• Ultimate’s push toward inclusivity and gender equity long before many mainstream sports
• How community, creativity, and competition shaped the culture

This blend of history and sport psychology gives viewers, from beginners to seasoned players, a deeper understanding of what makes ultimate truly unique.

How the project is progressing

The Lot is not finished, but significant progress has already been made. The team has:

• Filmed high-quality interviews with early pioneers
• Assembled a collection of historic documents and materials
• Started early stages of film production

The next phase will expand the film’s reach and refine its storytelling. And this is where the community plays a role.

How you can be part of ultimate’s history

The creators of The Lot are actively seeking partners, stories, and support from the global ultimate community. You can:

• Join the newsletter for updates and sneak peeks
• Contribute archival materials (photos, flyers, rulebooks)
• Support the project financially by joining the investor team ➤ tonyleonardo@me.com

Together, we can help ensure the history of ultimate frisbee is seen, heard, and remembered.

Visit their website

What Tony Leonardo says about the film

“Ultimate frisbee came from a specific time and place. We were born as inclusive, clever, fun — and competitive. But as ultimate enters its 57th year, the story of who we are and why we exist is missing from the world. The Lot is the story of how ultimate was created and where it’s going next. And the time to tell this story is now.” - Tony Leonardo, Director of The Lot

This quote highlights why the documentary is not just a film, but a cultural milestone for the sport.

Together, let’s bring the ultimate frisbee story to the world.

FAQ: The Lot and ultimate history

What is The Lot about?

The Lot is the first documentary aimed at telling the complete history of ultimate frisbee, from its beginnings to today’s global game.

Who is making the documentary?

It’s directed by Tony Leonardo, a storyteller passionate about preserving ultimate’s culture and history.

Why hasn’t ultimate’s history been told before?

Because ultimate grew through community, not corporate structure. There was no central archive, until now. The Lot fills that gap.

Can anyone watch the documentary?

Yes, as the project progresses, access and release details will be shared via the mailing list.

How can I support the project?

You can sign up for updates or contact the production team at tonyleonardo@me.com to explore opportunities for involvement or investment.

Related ultimate resources

If you’re curious about the culture, history, or gear of the sport you love, you might also enjoy:

• Why Tokay Cleats Are the Best for Ultimate Frisbee explore how gear designed for ultimate enhances performance.
• How to Choose Your Ultimate Frisbee Cleats a complete guide to choosing the right shoes for your game.
• Three Agility Drills for Ultimate Frisbee Players to Boost Speed & Cuts train your movement like a pro.

These articles expand on themes of performance, preparation, and the lived experience of playing ultimate.