Valley Ultimate is aware of certain incidences of unacceptable behavior by athletes from the Amherst Boys Varsity Ultimate team last spring. When situations come to Valley Ultimate’s attention that are not consistent with our values, and the core values of the sport of Ultimate, we are compelled to acknowledge and speak out against them in order to help create a better future for the sport and the athletes that play it.

We acknowledge the embarrassment these actions have brought on the Ultimate community and the wider community at large. We commit ourselves to support the Amherst Ultimate program in making the necessary changes in culture to prevent any future incidences. We acknowledge that the Amherst Ultimate Frisbee program does not exist in a vacuum, and we re-commit to support changes to build equity, respect, and justice into the overall ultimate culture of the Valley. Prevention of this behavior is a moving target, but Valley Ultimate is committed to constantly seeking solutions to ensure ultimate frisbee continues to be a leader in developing an equitable and safe sports community. We hope this commitment will have impacts in our broader community.

Our belief is that all people should be treated with dignity and respect at all times with no exceptions or special circumstances. Respect for the rules, for teammates, and for opponents are all central tenants of Ultimate. There are no exceptions. We stand for good spirit, fair play and adherence to the rules. This is the culture we stand for and will work to create and protect now and in the future.

• The Valley Ultimate Board