At the VUL, we feel lucky that we get to connect with the skilled and creative people behind our community partners. We want you to get to know them, too! This is the fourth in our monthly Partner Spotlight series. 

Meet Aaron Jonckheere of Strange Fellows Brewing

Name & Job Title: 

Aaron Jonckheere - Wanderer

Tell us what drew you to ultimate - how did you start playing? 

I was asked by a coworker to play on their ultimate team and after a couple games I fell in love with the sport. The spirit of the game, the game play, being part of a team and the feeling of chasing after a flying disc is something that is addictive.

What is your main team(s)? If you aren't currently playing, what team(s) did you play on in the past?

I've played and been part of many teams, but the 2 that stand out are Idle Hands, a touring co-ed team from the early 2000's that competed at Nationals, and Slow Children Playing, just a group of amazing people who played ultimate together for about 7 or 8 years.

In your opinion, what makes ultimate special?

Spirit of the Game and Community! What is anything without good people and a positive vibe.

Do you have a favourite ultimate memory you want to share?

So Many!!! Going to Nationals with Idle Hands, completing a greatest, seeing friends get married over a connection made on a team, seeing families made from these connections, having lifelong friends, and seeing this community flourish in BC.

What's your favourite throw and why?

The Hammer! Cause 60% of the time it works every time ... and when it works, it's a thing of beauty.

What is your favourite post-game beer?

Favourite post game beer is Talisman West Coast Pale Ale. The perfect mix of a moderate grain bill and mosaic hop makes this 4.0% ABV beer highly crushable and great for those who just finished a double header on one of these warm summer nights in the middle of July. I can't wait to get back to those days!!!

What have been your favourite books to read or activities to do during this time of social distancing?

I've been working on a daily yoga practice to loosen up my legs from all the years of running. Hopefully it allows me to keep playing ultimate for a few more years.

What do you love most about your job?

We make beer... so it's pretty hard to find anything not to love about my job.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I hope the ultimate community has been able to find activities, outlets and connections of a different sort over the past 12 months, in an effort to maintain their mental health. It has been the most difficult period of time in my life for mental health, connections, friendships and staying close with others. All of this has affected my outlook and happiness, and I know I am not alone. Finding outlets that allow us to experience joy, happiness and a release of stress has been a key for me, and I hope others have found similar avenues to let go of their difficulties. If they haven't or can't, I hope they reach out to others expressing their frustration and that others can provide the support these people need!