A Sociological Perspective of the Social Functions of Ultimate Frisbee in Higher Education Physical Education

As physical education evolves, Ultimate Frisbee has become an important addition to college PE programs, blending competition, enjoyment, and cooperation. Guided by functionalist theory and based on survey and interview data, this study investigates the social functions of Ultimate Frisbee in higher education. The findings show that the sport not only improves students’ physical fitness and teamwork abilities but also fosters social development, enriches campus sports culture, and supports identity formation. While Ultimate Frisbee has gained recognition internationally for its athletic and educational value, research in China remains focused on technical aspects, with limited exploration of its broader social impacts. This study addresses this gap by examining how Ultimate Frisbee facilitates student socialization, promotes inclusive values, and contributes to a dynamic campus environment. The paper concludes by identifying key challenges and proposing targeted strategies and policy recommendations to support the innovation and improvement of college physical education curricula.