Hi y’all. This year I decided to break out my Tarot Deck (lockdown activities), and give us all a glimpse into the past, present or future of the teams competing at Div II Nationals.
The cards were selected either by a team member (if available in person), or by myself in the comfort of my home. The Tarot deck was shuffled while thinking about the teams at Nationals, and then the top card was flipped. The orientation of the card when flipped is incredibly important as while there are 78 cards in the deck, there are at least 156 different meanings to be divined. You’ll see that some cards in this article are either upright or reversed, and these are not mistakes!
This is the first part of a four part series, exploring all 56 teams competing at the Australian Division I and II Championships for 2022. It’s hard work, but it’s so exciting to see the sport grow bigger and better every year. We begin with the 20 teams competing in the Division II Open’s Division in early April 2022.
These are my hot takes - take it with a pinch of salt, and toss it over your left shoulder!1
Branch Division 1
The Six of Swords represents that the team is in a state of transition, leaving behind what was familiar and moving towards the unknown. Celebrating their eleventh year as a club, there is certainly a lot of history behind the players and team, so now’s the chance to move onto bigger and better things! (Top 3 finish?) This card invites the team to let go of whatever was holding them back, and to gaze ahead into the future and choose the path to enlightenment. They’ll need to make some tough decisions and compromises along the way, but if they shed what is no longer needed, they’ll be headed towards securing the bag at Nationals. The swords may indicate that there’s still a heavy load (mental or emotional baggage) from the past that needs to be released to speed up growth - so it’s up to them to decide what needs to be taken along on the journey, and what to leave behind. Don’t dwell on the past. I’m encouraging the team to look forward, and come together to align and transition as one.
Extinction
When The Chariot is reversed, the universe may be saying “hey, chuck a uey and slow down”. It’s a warning that the team may be banging their heads against the brick wall of progress, when what they really need is to back off a little and adjust or change direction. This is a chance for the team to look internally, and re-evaluate the situation. Are you focusing your time and energy on your internal processes like self-discipline, determination and commitment? Now is the time to control the controllables, and identify what could be resolved and move past it. Perhaps the team can use visualisation and meditation to make sure the energy aligns with the team's goals. Focus your energies on what the team can control, and you’ll get that glory.
Fresh Chilly 2022
Yikes. Not sure what’s happened during the season so far, but a reversed Justice indicates that some injustice has been done in the past. Maybe the team knows about it, maybe they don’t - so some inner reflection is needed here. Wrongdoings will eat away at the team unless they come together and make amends. So you have a couple of options; hide the mistake and hope no-one finds out, or own up to it and take focused action to resolve the situation. Show the team a bit of kindness and compassion, as we all make mistakes - so toss that bias out the window! Spirit of the game might be impacted here, so free yourselves from any guilt and shame and the team is bound to have a better time.
Fyshwick Uni
Ah, a reversed Four of Wands. We have a bit of instability here, so this can go a couple of different ways, but the gist is the same - you’re going through a big period of transition. Some of the team have achieved their goals, and have chosen to quietly reward yourselves for the hard work you’ve put in. The other half may have experienced tension in relationships, which have left them feeling a little uncertain about the future. Either way, it looks like the team is lost in the bush and will need to come together to get through the other side. While the team may feel more comfortable celebrating internally (and individually), celebrations as a community are infinitely better so let in your fellow brothers! F*** the patriarchy and hug it out.
Fyshwick Unit
Lucky I’m pulling these cards out now, because the reversed Three of Pentacles is showing us a lack of harmony with team members. Something could potentially be off within the group dynamic. Maybe there’s some personal opinions getting in the way of progress. Maybe there’s a mutual lack of respect. However fear not, this card is encouraging you to work through these roadblocks together! Set some clear guidelines for the team, especially around respect and collaboration. Acknowledge the unique contribution that each person makes, no matter their experience or knowledge. Stop f***ing around, and get some more systemic energy into the group dynamic. Now is the time to plan out (in detail) how the team wants to achieve their goals together, and go kick some ass!
Geelong Mudlarks
Has this season been a struggle? The Emperor reversed is warning the team against tyrannical leadership. There may be too much discipline and authoritative power within the team that can be leaving others powerless - daddy issues? Power can be equally and constructively distributed - you don’t need to take it from others, nor do you need to give yours away. This card is suggesting that the entire team needs to take a step back, and ask themselves if there is routine and dedication from all. Seek a solution to lead from a place of personal power, and enable others to do the same. Just a reminder that true leadership is servitude to the group - humble yourselves and greatness will follow.
Ironbark (Arete)
A reversed Two of Wands is suggesting some hesitancy amongst the team, however it’s encouraging you to look inwards and focus on your personal goals to achieve a team win. Consider what is truly important to the team, and what lights them up. While in their eighth year, it looks like they may be at a crossroads in 2022, and may need to go back to the drawing board to reconnect with their dreams and ambitions. A goal without a plan is just a wish, so make sure you have a clear plan in place to manifest your goals. The team may have been happy being “the big fish in a small pond”, and enjoying success in this safe environment - but you’re not reaching your full potential! This card is encouraging reconnecting with the team’s vision and motives, which will lead to gaining confidence to enact your will upon Nationals.
Kronk
It’s been a tough season with the spicy cough, so the Queen of Pentacles is encouraging the team to turn their caring energy back onto themselves. Keep nurturing yourselves on that personal level - prepare nutritious meals, take yourself out for that daily walk, go for a schvitz! Perhaps this has translated into not spending enough time together as a team, so there’s a little inner conflict - but remember, sometimes you just can’t do it all. Do whatever it is that relaxes you as an individual, so that you have the energy to care for the team when it comes to crunch time.
Lé Sprucé Branché
Normally the Two of Pentacles suggests that you can balance multiple responsibilities easily. However when reversed - we get a warning that suggests the team is lacking this balance and possibly overcommitting. This card is warning you to not get stressed, catch that disc, and get organised. Reassess the team’s priorities and goals, and decide where you want to spend your energy. Turn down opportunities that no longer align with your goals - whip out that matrix, write some lists and get into some time management. Distractions are aplenty, so it will take every ounce of concentration to stay true to these goals, which may culminate at Nationals.
Mammoth
Ooft, this is the most energetic card in all of tarot! The Knight of Swords shows a team on a mission - once they’ve set their mind on something, nothing can stop ‘em. There is a determination to see all your plans come to fruition, as you spring into action. This team may thrive on high levels of energy to propel themselves forward, and inspire strength and determination to manifest your goals and push through obstacles. However, you may be unaware of potential challenges and issues in your way, or the unintended consequences of your actions. Fools rush in, so take the time to plan and prepare your team goals with brains, rather than brawn. Channel that energy!
Manly Muckerals
Now this is a club focused on a full development pathway for Ultimate, and the Eight of Pentacles confirms this. This team is pivoting towards self-improvement and personal development, and is dedicated to becoming the best version of themselves. However, don’t focus too much on the smaller details - you may lose sight of the bigger picture to your detriment. The team may like things done in a certain way, but what if circumstances change? Can you adapt, or does it throw you into a tailspin? Perhaps it’s time to step back and assess if you’re all focused on the right things, or if you need to concentrate on activities that bring you back into alignment with your broader goals. Chill out - meditate, take a spa day. Reach that internal bliss together as a team and you’ll go far.
Manly Mullets
The Justice card is less about law and order, and more about fairness. The card usually appears when there is an important choice to be made, with the potential for long-term repercussions. The team is being called to account for their actions, and will be judged accordingly. If members have acted in alignment with their Higher Selves and for the greater good of others, then you have nothing to worry about. But if some people haven’t, they will be called out and made to own up to their actions. Take a step back, and analyse the different choices ahead of you without any bias. Whichever choice seems the fairest - choose it and don’t look back. Explore your truth, and be prepared to dip into some potentially murky waters. Maybe print the pocket WFDF Rulebook - just in case.
Melbourne Carnage
The Sun reversed is calling to your inner child - “Come out and play!” As adults, we often get so lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life that we forget to have fun. Drop that mask, and look on the bright side of life. Maybe the team has experienced some setbacks that damaged their enthusiasm and optimism, which has led you to question - what have you actually set out to achieve? Perhaps the path or direction forward appears a little cloudy for you. However, this is only ever temporary. The obstacles you see can be overcome, it will just take a little more effort than usual. Work together, put your collective minds to it and it will become easy. Let go, embrace your inner child, dance like no-one is watching, and when dark times come, look towards your teammates as they will be your blessings.
Newcastle U-Beam
Ah, The Devil reversed. The team may be on the verge of a break-through, or a levelling up as you’re being called to your highest potential! However you must first let go of any unhealthy attachments or limiting beliefs that may be holding you back. This card calls on the team to confront their inner fears and anxieties, and eliminate things that are harmful to you and your inner psyche. Perhaps create a healthier diet, drink less alcohol, spend more time with your on-field and off-field family or focus more on your goals. There may also be deep, dark secrets hiding within the team - but holding onto these secrets can lead to overwhelming guilt. Embrace who you are and share your secret with at least one trusted person to find relief. Wear your heart on your sleeve, and the team will become stronger together.
NSU Borealis
I personally love that this card looks like we’re legit looking up at an aurora borealis, which is exactly what the Ten of Cups is about. This card embodies happiness, joy and emotional contentment, particularly within team relationships. The team feels like it’s surrounded by loved ones, and everyone is getting along - there is no tension in between the brotherly love. Enjoy this harmony while it lasts, and use this peace to strengthen your relationships now, in the event of future trials. Together this team feels incredibly strong, and can withstand any challenges thrown their way. Follow your heart and trust your gut, don’t follow the path others expect you to take.
Outbreak Apocalypse
The Queen of Swords indicates that the team has a gift of being able to use their intellect and unbiased judgement, while also remaining flexible and open to receive input from others. You lead from the head and not the heart, and want to know how, what, why, where, when and who of everything to help you make sense of your environment and better understand your teammates. There’s no beating around the bush here, this team tells it like it is and are determined to call out anyone who crosses them (watch out Spirit!). Some teams may be intimidated by how cool, calm and collected this team is together, but this will only make you more respected once they witness your true power. Trust your intuition, and lean more into your feelings as this will allow your team to vibrate at its highest level.
Phat Chilly
The Fool is a symbol of fresh starts and new beginnings, even though most of the team have been playing ultimate for longer than some players in this division have been alive! It’s never too late to take that leap of faith. This is a time of great potential and opportunity for the team right now, so follow your heart. Do you think you need to have everything mapped out before you can begin? No way! Not with The Fool. The world is your oyster, and anything can happen. Live life as though you are a child once again, and let this card be your guide. Anytime you experience fear or dread, The Fool encourages you to throw caution to the wind and do it anyway! Make that bid, eat those spicy foods, wave goodbye to lactose intolerance knowing you have a lacteeze in your pocket.
Quoll
Don’t be too hasty, my quolls! The Eight of Wands reversed is packing a punch and can be a blessing and a curse. On one side, the team has the passion and drive needed to follow through with your goals. On the other, they may be going too fast in their desire to manifest their vision. Settle petals! Make sure you’re not cutting any corners, or skipping ahead to the “good part”. Now is the time to reflect on where you’re going, and accomplish one goal at a time, rather than jumping around and finishing none of them. Be wary of any travel delays to the mainland. Use the team’s high energy and enthusiasm to carry each other through any obstacles. And always have a Plan B.
Status Quo
This is your final test. The Ten of Wands is two-fold; the team is potentially carrying one of the heaviest burdens, however this burden is almost over and the rest is on its way. While this burden is weighing the team down and making things tougher, the team understands that this is only temporary and they’re willing to put in the hard yards now to accomplish the goal and reap the rewards later. Don’t burn yourselves out! Prioritise and use time management to assess which tasks are immediate, and drop the rest. Dare I say - delegate more! The team have been pushing themselves to the limit, and you’re all now taking the final steps on the path to realising your dreams. Sure, you might collapse into a heap of exhaustion when it’s over, but it’ll all be worth it in the end. Good luck at WMUCC, and keep up the hard work!
xXDrAgONSL4Y3RsXx
Maybe there should’ve been less x’s in the name, but the Wheel of Fortune reversed is showing that your luck and fortune may take a turn for the worst. There is some resistance to change within this team, but you have a chance to accept responsibility and let go of some control. Accept that change is inevitable, and you will have a better experience when you can go with the flow. You have a couple of choices here: do nothing and hope things get better, or act to improve your situation! It’s time to channel your inner Zac Efron and ‘learn to break free’ from the cycles of oppression. As the story of Icarus reminds us, there is folly in ambition. Stay humble.
I take no responsibility into the accuracy of these readings, not a full tarot spread.