I had the fortune to play on many memorable teams during my ultimate career, some of which produced many lifelong friends as well as great sport moments. The most meaningful team that I ever played with is DTB.
When DTB was first realized, we had no idea how the greater Ultimate community would react or how recruiting for the team would be received. We did think it was a great opportunity for those of us who, at the time, would often be one of only a few non-white players on our club or college teams. The timing was good and our sport seemed to be the right place for a team like this to be formed. The Circle became a way to share our experiences and celebrate being a person of color in America.
What I learned in that circle is there are many different and varying stories but often with common themes. There have been so many topics over the years, all with history and relevance—race and politics, food, family or personal immigration experiences, and each of our own perceived identities in society. The team itself has become a forum of expression to the greater community, with the circle being the sounding board for the ideas.
I am so grateful to have been part of this team and to know how much it means to those who played on it. For me, the dialogue continues today with many of the same players who helped form this team. It is interesting how over 20 years later these forums are as necessary as ever.
