EMMA KLIMA

Are you trialing for a team this season? 

Yes, I'll be trialling for the GBW Senior Beach team attending Worlds in November, as well as playing for my local club team, Reading Ultimate Elite Mixed.

Are you a returning player? 

Yes, I’ve been a manager of RUX Elite for three years in a row now. I haven’t played on a GB beach team before, so this is a new experience for me.

How do you feel about being a returner?

It’s a unique mix for me because I’m managing the team while also trialling as a player, so I have to juggle both roles.

For Reading, I mostly feel excited, though a lot of work goes into planning and making sure players have a great experience. For GBW Beach, it’s a different challenge since I’ve never done it before, but I’m really excited to get stuck in!

How do you prepare mentally?

Mentally, my focus is more on running the trials, making sure everything is organized, and getting familiar with Brews' spreadsheets.

Physically, at this stage, I try to get as many game reps as possible. I’m lucky to have Elite January and Wednesday pre-season sessions nearby, along with some indoor tournaments to help with my prep. I’ve also found a great sandpit (though it’s not actually great) for sprint practice—trying out different turning techniques has been a fun, new challenge!

How do you prepare physically?

I’ve started building my cardio base during the off-season—thanks to a conveniently timed local half marathon! My off-season gym sessions have been more general fitness-focused rather than frisbee-specific, giving me a solid base before shifting towards more explosive, sport-specific training.

How about preparing for the season as a whole?

Once the half marathon is done, my focus will turn to sprinting, turning, and, of course, fine-tuning all my throwing skills!

Most of my season prep focuses on making sure the team is ready, planning trials, and reviewing or adding to our playbook. I like to build into the season gradually, so I increase my throwing sessions and gym work bit by bit, then add speed work and sprints. 

Once I find a routine that works, I stick to it. Right now, that means getting my gym sessions and runs done in the morning before work, because I can be more consistent.