2026 Western Ultimate League Awards Winners

2026 Western Ultimate League Award Winners

The annual WUL Awards honor outstanding players and coaching staff who have made significant contributions to the league and their teams. Each nominee exemplifies excellence in their respective roles and was honored with an awards ceremony during Championship Weekend.

Most Valuable Player:

Jamie Kauffman

Jaime Kauffman put together a season unlike any the WUL has ever seen, powering Seattle Tempest to new heights while rewriting the record books along the way. Kauffman became the first player in league history to lead the WUL in both goals (24) and assists (29), with her 29 assists setting a new single-season record. As if that weren’t enough, she also finished second in the league with 18 blocks, proving she could take over games on both sides of the disc.

Her all-around impact was unmatched. Kauffman led Seattle in goals, assists, blocks, and receiving yards (1,868), while finishing third on the team in throwing yards (1,261), making her the only player in the league to rank in the top three on their team across all five major statistical categories. Even more remarkably, she became the first player to lead the league in either goals or assists while playing the majority of their points on the defensive line—a testament to just how often she turned stops into scores.

One opposing coach summed it up simply: “Jamie has dominated the stat lines and completely alters how defenses have to counter Seattle's offensive attacks.” Kauffman’s production-per-turnover efficiency also set a new WUL single-season record with a 161 Player Efficiency Rating.

In a year filled with standout performances, Jaime Kauffman still stood alone. By combining elite offensive production, game-changing defense, and unprecedented versatility, she delivered the most complete season in WUL history.

Offensive Player of the Year: Cheryl Hsu

Seattle Tempest’s Cheryl Hsu orchestrated one of the most efficient and explosive offensive seasons the WUL has ever seen. A constant catalyst with the disc in her hands, Hsu finished second on the team with 27 assists—third in the league—and added 12 goals, placing her among the WUL leaders in total scores. Her command of the offense extended well beyond the endzone, leading Seattle with 2,899 throwing yards while amassing 3,331 total yards, the second- and fourth-highest marks in the league, respectively.

What set Hsu apart was not just volume, but precision. She completed an astonishing 17 of 20 huck attempts for an 85% completion rate, the highest ever recorded by a WUL player with at least 15 huck attempts in a season. Every deep shot carried the potential to flip a game, and more often than not, Hsu delivered. Her Week 6 performance against Oregon—five assists, 480 throwing yards, and a perfect 3-for-3 on hucks—earned Player of the Week honors and showcased exactly why defenses struggled to contain her.

A teammate captured her impact best: “Cheryl has been on an absolute tear this season and their ability to attack any point on the field creates massive problems for any opponent.” Whether stretching the field with pinpoint throws or patiently directing the offense underneath, Hsu consistently created opportunities that few players in the league could match.

Elite vision, record-setting efficiency, and the ability to dictate every possession made Cheryl Hsu the engine behind one of the WUL’s most dangerous offenses this season and a clear choice for the 2026 Offensive Player of the Year.

Defensive Player of the Year: Sarah Itoh

Sarah Itoh transformed Colorado Alpenglow’s defense into a turnover-generating machine in 2026, delivering a season defined by relentless pressure and game-changing plays. Itoh led the league with 19 blocks, tying the WUL single-season record and establishing herself as the premier defensive playmaker on her team and in the league. She also finished second in both blocks per game (2.4) and block rate (11.9%), consistently finding ways to disrupt even the league’s top offenses.

What made Itoh’s campaign even more remarkable was the consistency. Week after week, she generated momentum-shifting stops, including a five-block performance against Utah in Week 12 that tied for the most by any player in a single game this season. Her anticipation, closing speed, and ability to attack throwing lanes made every possession feel precarious for opposing offenses.

The achievement is even more impressive considering Itoh’s evolution as a player. After previously spending much of her time on the offensive line, she embraced a defensive role and quickly became one of the most feared defenders in the league. As one opponent put it: “Sarah Itoh has been the most prolific block-getter in 2026, and uses their speed and field IQ to great effect to generate pressure and turnovers.”

By pairing elite athleticism with impeccable instincts, Itoh anchored Colorado’s defense and delivered one of the finest defensive seasons in WUL history, earning the title of 2026 Defensive Player of the Year.

Breakout Player of the Year: Kennedy McCarthy

 Colorado's Kennedy McCarthy wasted no time establishing herself as one of the league’s premier two-way threats. She finished second on the team with 20 goals, third with 13 assists, second with 10 blocks, and led Colorado with a 129 Player Efficiency Rating while piling up 1,957 total yards.

The numbers only tell part of the story. McCarthy was part of the engine behind Colorado’s biggest moments, capable of taking over games on either side of the disc. Her Week 2 performance against Seattle Tempest entered the record books as the first 3-goal, 4-assist, 4-block game in WUL history—complete with a layout Callahan—and earned the first of two Player of the Week honors in 2026. Seven weeks later, she did it again in a different way, torching opponents for 5 goals, 3 assists, 416 yards, and almost no mistakes to become the only player in 2026 to earn Player of the Week honors twice.

From injured reserve to indispensable centerpiece, no player made a bigger leap this season than Kennedy McCarthy.

Coaching Staff of the Year: Oregon Soar

Dara Linkfield, Leo Micklem and Chelsea Putnam

Head Coaches Dara Linkfield, Leo Micklem and Chelsea Putnam engineered one of the most dramatic turnarounds in the WUL, transforming Oregon Soar from a winless squad into a team capable of pushing the league’s elite. Their influence showed up in every phase of the game, building a disciplined, confident roster that took a major step forward in 2026.

Offensively, the numbers tell the story. Oregon increased its scoring output from 10.8 goals per game in 2025 to 15.6 in 2026—an improvement of nearly 45%—while boosting its hold rate from 38.1% to 57.9%, a jump of more than 50%. The team also led the league with a huck completion rate above 66%, pairing vision with remarkable efficiency.

The coaching staff’s impact extended beyond the stat sheet. Putnam, Linkfield, and Micklem cultivated one of the league’s most dynamic defensive units, with Oregon consistently challenging and frustrating even the WUL’s top contenders. Their emphasis on discipline, communication, and execution reshaped the team’s identity on both sides of the disc.

An opposing voice captured the transformation perfectly: “Oregon’s competitive trajectory was night and day from 2025 to 2026. While some credit must go to the players, I feel the coaching staff likely had a crucial impact in elevating Soar from a winless team to one that can play tight with the league’s top contenders.”

Check out the entire list of Award Finalists here.

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WUL Award Ceremony Gallery

Photography Credit: John King & Rowdy Webb

Portland to host WUL Championship Weekend 2026!

We’re excited to announce that the 2026 Western Ultimate League Championship Weekend will take place in Portland, OR! 

Portland’s passionate sports community, vibrant culture, and deep roots in ultimate make it the perfect stage for our league’s most competitive and meaningful weekend of the year.

After our 12 week regular season, the top two teams from the Northwest Conference and Southwest Conference will travel to WUL Championship Weekend to determine the league winner. The event will take place in the NE Complex at UO Portland. Expect a fun-filled family-friendly frisbee event with food trucks, games, merch, and more. Tickets coming soon.

This will be the first time the WUL has had its Championship in Oregon.

Saturday 6/13

Semifinal 1 - Northwest #1 vs Southwest #2
Semifinal 2 - Northwest #2 vs Southwest #1

Sunday 6/14

3rd Place - Loser of Semifinal 1 vs Loser of Semifinal 2
Final - Winner of Semifinal 1 vs Winner of Semifinal 2

Can’t make it live? Catch the games streamed live and FREE on the WUL YouTube channel.

Northwest Cup Returns: Seattle & Oregon Face Off in PNW Rivalry Showcase

Seattle and Oregon come together once again for a high-stakes ultimate showdown that blends elite competition, regional pride, and a format you won’t see anywhere else. Seattle captured the Cup last year on Oregon’s turf in front of a packed stadium in Eugene. Can Oregon flip the script to steal it back in 2026?

Hosted at Interbay Stadium in Seattle, the event features top professional athletes from both the Western Ultimate League (WUL) and the Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA). The showcase features the Seattle Tempest and Seattle Cascades facing off against the Oregon Soar and Oregon Steel in a unique crossover format designed to highlight talent across both leagues. The evening will conclude with a mixed-league matchup, reflecting the collaborative spirit and depth of talent within the Pacific Northwest ultimate community.

Longstanding rivalries between Seattle and Oregon extend across many sports, and the Northwest Cup continues that tradition within professional ultimate. The event provides fans with an opportunity to see multiple teams, styles of play, and divisions represented in a single competition.

Interbay Stadium | Seattle, WA
February 28, 2026
5:00 PM

Can’t make it in person? Watch live and FREE on YouTube.

Get Tickets
Livestream

EVENT FORMAT

The Northwest Cup uses a three-period structure, with total points across all periods determining the overall winner.

Period 1 (15 minutes | UFA rules)
Seattle Cascades vs. Oregon Steel

Period 2 (15 minutes | WUL rules)
Seattle Tempest vs. Oregon Soar

Period 3 (20 minutes | WUL rules | Mixed League)
Seattle Tempest & Cascades vs. Oregon Soar & Steel

A Regional Showcase for Professional Ultimate

The Northwest Cup highlights the growing partnership between the WUL and UFA and the strength of professional ultimate in the Pacific Northwest. For athletes, it is an opportunity to compete alongside and against familiar rivals in a fun and exciting format. For fans, it offers a rare chance to experience multiple professional teams in one setting.

The mixed period in particular underscores the region’s commitment to collaboration and innovation, bringing together athletes from both leagues in a shared competitive environment.

Will Griffin Appointed WUL Executive Director

[February 10, 2026] - The Western Ultimate League is pleased to announce the appointment of Will Griffin as its new Executive Director.

Will Griffin, WUL Executive Director

Griffin brings more than 17 years of experience in sales, marketing, and general business operations across small to mid-sized organizations. He earned his degree in Business Administration from San Diego State University and has been deeply involved in professional ultimate as one of the owner-operators of the Ultimate Frisbee Association’s San Diego Growlers since 2015.

In addition to his professional background, Griffin is a husband and father of two elementary-aged children.

“I’m honored to step into the role of Executive Director of the Western Ultimate League,” said Griffin. “The WUL has already shown that a professional league can be built with intention and purpose. It has created space for women and non-binary athletes to compete at the highest level while also shaping conversations about access, leadership, and visibility in sport.”

He emphasized that the league’s impact extends beyond competition. “This league is more than games and standings; it’s a community, visibility, and a future of professional ultimate. The work ahead is about strengthening the foundation that has already been built, supporting our teams and athletes, and continuing to push the league forward in a way that is thoughtful, transparent, and collaborative.”

As he steps into the role, Griffin shared that listening and learning will be central to his approach. He seeks to ground his leadership approach in long-term thinking, community, and sustainability. Griffin looks forward to working closely with athletes, team leadership, and supporters to help guide the league through its next chapter and continued growth.

The WUL thanks our previous executive director, Nicole Neumiller, for their valuable work for the league and wishes Neumiller the best in their future endeavors.

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The Western Ultimate League was established to advance the sport of ultimate frisbee by showcasing and amplifying women and non-binary athletes. Recognizing the privilege that got us here, our mission is to: Increase accessibility, promote the visibility of underrepresented athletes, cultivate a culture of inclusion and equity, and use our influence and platform to broaden the spaces where our sport grows and develops.

Interested in becoming a sponsor or supporter of the Western Ultimate League? Contact marketing@westernultimateleague.com.

2026 Schedule Announced

The wait is over—your first look at the 2026 WUL season is here!
We’re excited to share the weekends you can expect to see WUL action this spring.

New storylines, returning stars, and can’t-miss matchups are on the horizon — whether you're in the stands or tuning in on YouTube.

Save the dates, and watch for the full schedule coming soon.

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With eight (8) teams in the Western Ultimate League for 2026 with Los Angeles Astra’s return, the WUL will return to conference play between the North Conference and South Conference. Each team will play its in-conference opponents two times each and will play two out-of-conference opponents. Visit the schedule page to see the week-to-week breakdown for 2026.

North Conference: Colorado Alpenglow, Oregon Soar, Seattle Tempest, and Utah Wild

South Conference: Arizona Sidewinders, Bay Area Falcons, Los Angeles Astra, and San Diego Super Bloom

Games will continue to be streamed for free on our YouTube channel. Subscribe to our newsletter today so you don’t miss any of the action!

2025 Western Ultimate League All-WUL Second Team

2025 Western Ultimate League All-WUL Second Team

The All-WUL teams recognize the all-around top players in the league for the 2025 season. The teams were decided based on a combination of voting results for the Most Valuable Player, Offensive Player of the Year, and Defensive Player of the Year awards. The top seven vote getters are recognized on the All-WUL First Team, and the next seven are recognized on the All-WUL Second Team. The players on each team are listed in alphabetical order.

Georgia Cardosa (BAY)

On a Falcons squad returning much of the league’s top-ranked defense from 2024, it was almost inevitable that a Defensive Player of the Year finalist would emerge in 2025. What no one expected—at least outside the Southwest—was that it would be Georgia Cardosa. Entering the season with just a single game and two points played in her WUL career, Cardosa wasted no time making her presence felt: she racked up four blocks against Arizona in Week 1 and delivered three jaw-dropping foot blocks versus Seattle in Week 2. From there, she became a staple of the Bay Area D-line, locking down handlers and generating yards with aggressive under cuts after turnovers. Her breakout season earned her a DPOTY finalist nomination and a well-deserved spot on the All-WUL Second Team.

Jackie Riley (OR)

A product of Oregon’s storied youth scene, Jackie Riley brought exactly what the Soar needed in their inaugural WUL season: dynamic young talent with a high ceiling. From the first few games, it was clear Riley would be a force on Oregon’s D-line—jumpstarting break opportunities with big throws and clutch catches. They made an early statement with four goals and 299 receiving yards in Soar’s opener, followed by three goals and 327 receiving yards just two games later. But Riley’s biggest impact came on defense. Over the final three games of the season, they averaged a staggering three blocks per game, finishing with 12 on the year—tied for second-most in the league. That disruptive presence earned Riley a spot among the DPOTY finalists and a place on the All-WUL Second Team.

Kat Songer (UT)

One of the league’s steadiest and most reliable handlers, Kat Songer once again anchored the Utah Wild offense with unshakable poise and precision. While she may not dominate highlight reels like some of the league’s flashiest throwers, Songer quietly does everything right—hitting open receivers, making smart decisions, and keeping the offense humming. She’s the kind of player coaches should show their young handlers on film.

In 2025, Songer threw 11 hucks and completed eight—a 73% completion rate, second-best in the league among players with at least 10 attempts. And that efficiency is no fluke: she went 10-for-14 in 2024 and 4-for-5 in 2023. Her year-over-year numbers reflect remarkable consistency:

2023: 11 assists, 1,679 throwing yards, +3.2 completions above expected
2024: 15 assists, 1,539 throwing yards, +1.9 completions above expected
2025: 16 assists, 1,518 throwing yards, +3.1 completions above expected

The one major change in 2025? Even with a career-high in touches, Songer committed five fewer turnovers than in either of the previous two seasons. And she never let up—her 104 points played led the entire league. An iron-willed leader at the helm of the Wild O-line, Songer’s All-WUL Second Team nod is a testament to years of quiet excellence.

Kaitlyn Weaver (SD)

On a team as stacked as San Diego, even big-name signings can raise questions—how will they fit? Will they stand out? In the case of 2023 MVP finalist Kaitlyn Weaver, the answer was clear from the start: contribute everywhere, elevate the team, and make a deep impact on both sides of the disc. In her first season with Super Bloom, Weaver seamlessly stepped into a high-usage role, finishing second on the team in points played (95) and earning both a DPOTY finalist nod and a place on the All-WUL Second Team.

Weaver’s presence took pressure off San Diego’s longtime stars Keala Helton and Dena Elimelech, allowing them to thrive deeper into games. But make no mistake—Weaver wasn’t just a role player. She was Helton-esque in her all-around production:

942 receiving yards (3rd on the team)
12 assists (3rd)
8 blocks (3rd)
7 huck receptions (1st)

She routinely initiated the offense, whether by stretching the field with big cuts or grinding out yardage underneath. In the red zone, she was just as comfortable taking charge—often throwing the final pass to cap drives. With her versatility, stamina, and playmaking instincts, Weaver gave Super Bloom exactly what they needed to finally break through to a gold at Championship Weekend.

Kelli Iwamoto (SD)

Kelli Iwamoto’s shift from First-Team All-WUL and MVP finalist in 2024 to Second Team in 2025 isn’t a drop-off—it’s a reflection of just how complete and balanced the Super Bloom roster became this season. As San Diego evolved into a more cohesive, championship-caliber unit, Iwamoto remained the steady force at the heart of it all.

Iwamoto once again delivered the kind of poised, efficient handler play that doesn’t always make headlines—but absolutely wins games. Across just five appearances, she tallied 5 goals, 4 assists, 3 blocks, and over 1,000 total yards—despite logging 75 fewer touches than she did in 2024.

But Iwamoto’s impact can’t be measured in numbers alone. She remains a trusted leader—someone her team turns to in critical moments, whether for a key break throw or a possession saving layout on an overthrown dump – sometimes simply to reset the energy and execute under pressure. Her calm presence and elite decision-making helped guide Super Bloom through their most successful season yet—and her Second Team selection is a testament to the power of consistency, leadership, and knowing exactly what your team needs, exactly when it matters most.

Melissa Dunn (AZ)

Melissa Dunn broke through in a major way in 2025, becoming one of the most reliable and dangerous offensive threats in the league. She finished tied for 2nd in goals (14) and 2nd in receiving yards (1,265)—a massive leap from her previous career averages of just 3 goals and 420 receiving yards per season.

Her breakout moment came in Week 7, where she delivered a career performance: 4 goals, 4 assists, and a staggering 341 receiving yards—the most ever recorded in a single game by an Arizona Sidewinder. With that effort, she became just the sixth player in league history to register at least 4 goals and 4 assists in the same game, underscoring her emergence as a true all-around playmaker.

A versatile hybrid with the ability to fill any role asked of her, Dunn paired big-yardage performances with steady efficiency, posting an 89.7% completion rate and committing just 3.5 receiving errors all season—on a team that often had to battle through adversity. Dunn’s rise helped stabilize Arizona’s offense and showcased her evolution into one of the WUL’s most complete offensive players.

Paige Kercher (UT)

No player has defined consistent production in the WUL quite like Paige Kercher. This season, she cemented that legacy by becoming the first player in league history to surpass 10,000 career regular season yards—a milestone that speaks to both her longevity and her unwavering impact on the field.

Even as Utah experimented midseason by shifting Kercher to the D-line for three games, her yardage output never wavered. She continued to generate offense with her signature poise and precision, ultimately finishing the year with the fewest turnovers of her career. As a veteran leader on a young Wild squad, Kercher brought calm to chaos—running the offense with patience, connecting seamlessly with fellow Second Team honoree Kat Songer, and mentoring emerging talents like Lily Terpstra and Carly Atwell.

Whether she’s driving downfield with big unders or resetting the tempo as a handler, Kercher remains the rock of Utah’s backfield. And as long as she’s on the field, the Wild offense is in expert hands.

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Note: Selections were based on voting results for the 2025 WUL Awards, but the views and opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the WUL.

Contributors include:

Ben Sadis (he/him), WUL data collector and statistician

Noah Gumerman (he/him), WUL data collector and statistician

Kaetlynn Daoust (she/her), WUL Media Manager

Aly Steinfeld (she/her), WUL Marketing Director

2025 Western Ultimate League All-WUL First Team

2025 Western Ultimate League All-WUL First Team

The All-WUL teams recognize the all-around top players in the league for the 2025 season. The teams were decided based on a combination of voting results for the Most Valuable Player, Offensive Player of the Year, and Defensive Player of the Year awards. The top seven vote getters are recognized on the All-WUL First Team, and the next seven are recognized on the All-WUL Second Team. The players on each team are listed in alphabetical order.

Abby Thorpe (CO)

Each year Abby Thorpe has played in this league, she has been nominated for Most Valuable Player (including winning both MVP and the title in 2024). Thorpe is zeroed in by her teammates even if she is not open at that time, and there is a reason for this – she will make it happen. Thorpe scored a single game record of eight goals in Colorado’s 2025 semifinal against Bay Area, demonstrating that even in their toughest matches, Thorpe is the fuel that keeps Colorado chugging forward. She ran for almost 1000 receiving yards during the 2025 regular season (playing in just 5 of 6 games), then notched an additional 600 receiving yards over Championship Weekend. She was the only player in the league with over 800 yards in both receiving and throwing yards, and one of just three players in the league to finish top five on her team in goals, assists, blocks, throwing yards, and receiving yards . Her teammates say “Abby Thorpe makes the impossible possible.”

Ari Nelson (CO)

Ari Nelson followed up on their 2024 Offensive Player of the Year campaign with a perhaps even more impressive season this year, becoming the first player to win back-to-back OPOTY awards. During the regular season, Nelson led the league in nearly every notable stat –  assists, throwing yards and total yards with 2,740 (300 more than the next highest). Those 2K total yards are also good for the third most in a single season, and the most by a player who played in less than eight games. Nelson averaged 417 throwing yards per game, but set a single game record in Week 1 with 622 throwing yards. With a league leading 20 assists and 2,506 throwing yards, Nelson has carried the  Alpenglow offense to the postseason over the past two years, and opponents have not yet figured out how to slow down their powerful arm. An opposing coach said about Ari – “I can’t get over how much of the offensive load Ari takes on for their team, they are just a force with the disc”. 

Dena Elimelech (SD)

One of the WUL’s preeminent receivers and block getters, Dena Elimelich completed yet another season in which she was a regular near the top of statistical leaderboards, finishing 2nd in the regular season in both goals and blocks. Perhaps most impressive this season was her throwing range, as she completed eight out of ten hucks, the highest completion percentage in the league among players who threw at least ten hucks. Now a 3x All-WUL First Team selection, Elimelech has been a regular on end-of-season Player of the Year awards lists as well, including a win for 2024 DPOTY. She is a force on either side of the disc with jaw dropping skies, full field hucks and unbelievable layout catches. Her teammates say “She is a game changing player on offense and defense” and her level of play throughout the 2025 season was one of the biggest factors in San Diego taking home their first championship.

Kaela Helton (SD)

The 2025 WUL MVP finally capped off a stellar pro season with a championship for San Diego Super Bloom. Helton, now a 3x MVP, has been the heart and soul of this Super Bloom team since its inception, and that was the case once again this year. Across five regular-season games, she had 772 throwing yards, 1104 receiving yards, 11 assists, 16 goals, nine blocks, and not a single receiver error – something no other player in her impact and usage stratosphere managed. Helton’s presence warped the defense towards her whenever she stepped on the field, and in doing so opened up more opportunities for her teammates than ever before. This was wonderfully exemplified in Super Bloom’s postseason run, where Helton turned in two dominant performances into San Dieg’s first-ever WUL title.

Robyn Fennig (BAY)

During our season preview, we anointed Robyn Fennig the Bay’s X-factor for the 2025 season, speculating how much control the Falcons coaching staff would hand to their prized signing. The answer was, of course, full control, which paid dividends right away as Fennig lit up the Arizona defense to the tune of 6 assists and 493 yards in her WUL debut. On the season, Fennig accumulated 2,471 yards - second in the league - and led the league with 18.7 completions above expected (the WUL’s throwing proficiency stat that measures the consistency and difficulty of a player’s completions to the average player). Her chemistry with cutters Malina Wiebe and fellow handler Han Chen grew throughout the season and played a big part in Bay Area’s semi-final victory over previously undefeated Colorado. In short, Fennig’s rookie season was incredible and her impact should only grow as she further integrates into the team in the coming years.

Rory Veldman (CO)

Every year she’s been in the league, Rory Veldman has taken big strides forward for Colorado Alpenglow. Last year, she was a critical piece in Alpenglow’s championship puzzle. This year, Veldman fully emerged as a superstar force on the best regular-season team in the league. Veldman set career highs in goals (12), receiving yards (785), throwing yards (1205), and tied her career high with 12 assists, not to mention adding six blocks for good measure. Veldman is a nightmare matchup on both sides of the disc, and forces opposing offenses and defenses to be operating at their peaks if they want to get anything done while she is around. A 2025 MVP nomination and first team All-WUL nod is the least she’s earned for breaking into the top players in the league in 2025.

Sadie Jezerski (SEA)

Months ago during the early weeks of the preseason, the WUL stats team discussed what Seattle’s floor and ceiling were this year for the 2025 season preview. And the consensus became clear very early that Tempest would go as far as Sadie Jezierski could carry them. While the season didn’t end with a title, Jezierski’s dominance on Seattle’s D-line was a huge reason they worked their way back into Championship Weekend. Jezierski led the league with a stunning 16 blocks in the regular season, to go along with 17 assists, five goals, and over 1,600 yards as the D-line anchor – and earning her the title of 2025 DPOTY. Time after time, Jezierski provided a spark on defense at a critical moment, only to turn around the throw a huge huck for a break that shifted momentum to Tempest during this 2025 season, and added another goal, four assists, and four blocks as Seattle secured third in the postseason as well.

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Note: Selections were based on voting results for the 2025 WUL Awards, but the views and opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the WUL.

Contributors include:

Ben Sadis (he/him), WUL data collector and statistician

Noah Gumerman (he/him), WUL data collector and statistician

Kaetlynn Daoust (she/her), WUL Media Manager

Aly Steinfeld (she/her), WUL Marketing Director

2025 Western Ultimate League All-WUL Teams

2025 Western Ultimate League All-WUL Teams

The All-WUL teams recognize the all-around top players in the league for the 2025 season. The teams were decided based on a combination of voting results for the Most Valuable Player, Offensive Player of the Year, and Defensive Player of the Year awards. The top seven vote getters are recognized on the All-WUL First Team, and the next seven are recognized on the All-WUL Second Team. The players on each team are listed in alphabetical order.

All-WUL First Team

Abby Thorpe - Colorado Alpenglow

Ari Nelson - Colorado Alpenglow

Dena Elimelech - San Diego Super Bloom

Kaela Helton - San Diego Super Bloom

Robyn Fennig - Bay Area Falcons

Rory Veldman - Colorado Alpenglow

Sadi Jezierski - Seattle Tempest

All-WUL Second Team

Georgia Cardosa - Bay Area Falcons

Jackie Riley - Oregon Soar

Kat Songer - Utah Wild

Kaitlyn Weaver - San Diego Super Bloom

Kelli Iwamoto - San Diego Super Bloom

Melissa Dunn - Arizona Sidewinders

Paige Kercher - Utah Wild

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All-Star Rosters Revealed for Historic WUL vs. PUL All-Star Showdown

The Western Ultimate League and Premier Ultimate League (PUL) are proud to unveil the official rosters for the 2025 WUL vs. PUL All-Star Game, happening Saturday, August 23 in Madison, Wisconsin, during the UFA (Ultimate Frisbee Association) Championship Weekend.

This groundbreaking event marks the first time in professional ultimate history that players from the WUL and PUL will compete against one another in a head-to-head All-Star game.

Each league will send a full roster of athletes selected through fan voting and team nominations. These players represent the best of what both leagues have to offer — elite skills, unmatched athleticism, and leadership on and off the field.

More than just a showcase of talent, this event is a celebration of the community, the progress, and the players pushing professional women’s and non-binary ultimate forward.

WUL All-Stars:

Robyn Fennig

Georgia Cardosa

Thalia Ward

Eliana Norton

Raina "Sprite" Kamrat

Emma Bartlett

Allysha Dixon

Jade McLaughlin

Abby Thorpe

Justine Cherwink

Paige Kercher

Kyra Khoroujnikova

Melissa Dunn

Chip Chang

Paige Applegate

Dena Elimelech

Kaela Helton

Ikran Elmi

Cheryl Hsu

Sadie Jezierski

PUL All-Stars:

Maketa Mattimore

Lyra Olson

Rachel Mast

Megan Jarriel

Chip Yen

Liv Ford

Lina Montenegro

Eastelle Ding

Linda Morse

Becca Henley

Jolie Krebs

Georgia Tse

Alex Barnett

Lisi Lohre

Penny Wu

Emma Piorier

Clara Stewart

Natalie Wilson

Eileen Bequette

Genny De Jesus

Coaches: Layne Kyung and Genghis Philip 

The game will be streamed live and for free on both the WUL and PUL YouTube channels and available through UFA.TV. Admission to the game will be included with any 2025 UFA Championship Weekend ticket (weekend pass or single-day), along with an optional donation to a shared WUL and PUL fund. More information will be made available on the 2025 UFA Championship Weekend site.

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The Western Ultimate League was established to advance the sport of ultimate frisbee by showcasing and amplifying women and non-binary athletes. Recognizing the privilege that got us here, our mission is to: Increase accessibility, promote the visibility of underrepresented athletes, cultivate a culture of inclusion and equity, and use our influence and platform to broaden the spaces where our sport grows and develops.

The Premier Ultimate League began our journey with a simple goal - to create an inclusive and competitive league that showcases the incredible athleticism and spirit of the game. Our mission is to achieve equity in the sport of ultimate by increasing accessibility to the sport for, and visibility of, women, transgender, non-binary, genderqueer, and genderfluid people through high-quality competition, leadership experiences, and community partnerships. Our league strives for gender, racial, and economic diversity in the sport of ultimate.

Interested in becoming a sponsor or supporter of the Western Ultimate League or the Premier Ultimate League? Contact marketing@westernultimateleague.com or pulsponsorships@gmail.com.

San Diego Super Bloom Wins First-Ever WUL Championship

THIRD TIME'S THE CHARM | SAN DIEGO STRIKES GOLD AT LAST

San Diego Wins First-Ever WUL Championship

San Diego Super Bloom pose with the WUL Championship Trophy after earning their first ever gold medal finish. Photographer: Rodney Chen, Ultiphotos

Bay Area came out firing in front of their home crowd, jumping to a quick two-goal lead—but San Diego stayed composed. Super Bloom evened the score by the end of the first quarter and followed with a 3-point run into the second to take control. Bay battled back to stay within striking distance, but San Diego’s discipline and depth proved too much. With a final score of 12–10, Super Bloom closed out their historic title run and claimed their first WUL championship.

After falling short in 2022 and 2023, San Diego finally reached the top—led by standout performances across the board, including newly crowned league 2025 WUL MVP Kaela Helton (WUL MVP in 2022 & 2023). 

Bay Area capped off their most successful season ever with outstanding performances across the board, a second-place finish and a bright future ahead.

Championship Game Gallery

Photographer: Rodney Chen, Ultiphotos

See the entire gallery on Ultiphotos.com

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The success of our league is only made possible with support from fans, fundraisers and partnerships. All livestreams since our inception have been free in order to promote accesibility. If you enjoyed watching the streams this weekend, please consider a direct donation. Thank you!

2025 Western Ultimate League Award Finalists

2025 Western Ultimate League Award Finalists

The annual WUL Awards honor outstanding players and coaching staff who have made significant contributions to the league and their teams. Each nominee exemplifies excellence in their respective roles. We invite you to join us in celebrating their achievements! Winners will be announced onsite throughout 2025 Championship Weekend, June 7-8 in Oakland, CA

2025 Most Valuable Player

Dena Elimelech - San Diego Super Bloom

Robyn Fennig - Bay Area Falcons

Kaela Helton - San Diego Super Bloom

Abby Thorpe - Colorado Alpenglow

Rory Veldman - Colorado Alpenglow

2025 Offensive Player of the Year

Paige Applegate - Arizona Sidewinders

Melissa Dunn - Arizona Sidewinders

Kelli Iwamoto - San Diego Super Bloom

Ari Nelson - Colorado Alpenglow

Kat Songer - Utah Wild

2025 Defensive Player of the Year

Georgia Cardosa - Bay Area Falcons

Justine Cherwink - Utah Wild

Sadie Jezierski - Seattle Tempest

Jackie Riley - Oregon Soar

Kaitlyn Weaver - San Diego Super Bloom

2025 Breakout Player of the Year

Georgia Cardosa - Bay Area Falcons

Julia Hasbrook - Seattle Tempest

Rena Kawabata - Colorado Alpenglow

Brittany Stettmeier - Arizona Sidewinders

Noelle Takahashi - Oregon Soar

2025 Coaching Staff of the Year

Colorado Alpenglow

San Diego Super Bloom

Seattle Tempest

WUL Expansion Team Applications

As we continue to build a stronger, more sustainable future for professional ultimate, we're excited to welcome new teams into the league. Whether you're an established program or a rising ultimate community with big dreams, now is the time to get involved.

We’re looking for passionate, organized groups who are committed to advancing professional women’s ultimate and growing the sport in their region. If your community is ready to take the next step, we encourage you to apply.

Bring your vision, your leadership, and your love for the game—together, we can shape the next chapter of the WUL.

Please send serious inquiries to westernultimateleague@gmail.com.
Applications are due June 13 for the following season each year.

Western Ultimate League Partners with Combat Candy to Fuel Performance and Competition

[FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE]

Western Ultimate League Partners with Combat Candy to Fuel Performance and Competition

[May 1, 2025] – The Western Ultimate League (WUL) is proud to announce a new partnership with Combat Candy, a bold new voice in sports nutrition founded by athletes, for athletes. This collaboration marks a shared commitment to fueling performance, celebrating inclusivity, and making high-quality nutrition more accessible.

Combat Candy is revolutionizing how athletes fuel their bodies, offering creatine monohydrate in delicious, on-the-go gummy form. With 5 grams of vegan, non-GMO, gluten- and dairy-free creatine per serving, Combat Candy’s gummies provide a convenient, travel friendly and tasty alternative to traditional powders and mixes. But this partnership is about more than better supplements—it’s about reshaping the culture of sports nutrition to be more joyful, more inclusive, and more representative of the athletes it serves.

“We’re excited to team up with Combat Candy,” said Nicole Neumiller, WUL Commissioner. “Their mission goes beyond fueling performance—it’s about rejecting outdated norms and uplifting all athletes, especially those who have been historically overlooked in the sports nutrition space. The WUL is proud to work with a brand that champions strength, science, and joy—values that align perfectly with our league and our players.”

Combat Candy was co-founded by Lucy Berman, a registered dietitian, MMA fighter, and former captain of University of Florida’s college ultimate team, alongside Lou Abramowski, a championship-level ultimate player and coach. Their shared experiences across competitive sport and nutrition led to the development of Combat Candy’s athlete-first, no-nonsense approach.

 "As a fighter, dietitian, and former ultimate player, I’ve seen how much nonsense athletes—especially women—are fed about what they should take, eat, and be,” said Berman. “Combat Candy is our rebellion: real science, real results… The WUL clearly gets it. These athletes play like beasts and still know how to have fun. That’s exactly who we made Combat Candy for."

Abramowski added, “Partnering with the WUL to support women and non-binary athletes genuinely feels a lot like a Callahan in a championship game—exciting, deeply fulfilling, and a dream come true."

As an official partner of the WUL, Combat Candy will support league initiatives and bring visibility to nutrition solutions that empower athletes to play at their best—without compromising on taste or values.

WUL fans can use the code WUL35 for 35% off their first order on combatcandies.com.

About the Western Ultimate League
The Western Ultimate League was established to advance the sport of ultimate frisbee by showcasing and amplifying women and non-binary athletes. Recognizing the privilege that got us here, our mission is to: increase accessibility, promote the visibility of underrepresented athletes, cultivate a culture of inclusion and equity, and use our influence and platform to broaden the spaces where our sport grows and develops.

About Combat Candy
Combat Candy is on a mission to punch boring supplements in the face. Founded by registered dietitian & MMA fighter Lucy Berman and championship ultimate player & coach Lou Abramowski, Combat Candy makes creatine gummies that taste like candy but hit like a layout D on universe point. Each serving delivers 5 grams of vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free creatine monohydrate. Combat Candy is more than a supplement—it’s a rebellion against macho supplement culture, and a celebration of joyful performance.

WUL and PUL Face Off in First-Ever All-Star Game Hosted at UFA Championship Weekend

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Western Ultimate League and Premier Ultimate League Face Off in First-Ever All-Star Game Hosted at UFA Championship Weekend

[April 24, 2025] — For the first time in professional women’s and non-binary ultimate history, the best of the West will battle the powerhouses of the East.

The Western Ultimate League (WUL) is thrilled to announce a historic All-Star Game set to take place on Saturday, August 23, 2025, in Madison, Wisconsin — in partnership with the Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA) Championship Weekend. But this isn’t your typical All-Star event. This year, WUL All-Stars won’t be playing each other — they’ll be facing off against top talent from the Premier Ultimate League (PUL) in a never-before-seen showdown between the two pro leagues.

The WUL will bring two to four All-Stars per team, selected through a mix of fan voting and coach nominations. The rosters will feature high-flying highlights, clutch throws, and elite-level WUL vs PUL matchups that fans have only dreamed of—until now.

“This moment has been years in the making,” said WUL Commissioner Nicole Neumiller. “We've always known the WUL and PUL were filled with incredible athletes. Now, for the first time, we get to settle the question fans have asked for years: Who’s the best?”

Held during the UFA’s 2025 Championship Weekend, the All-Star Game will enjoy prime visibility, high-quality live streaming, and the energy of a national championship audience.

“We’re honored to share the field and spotlight with the UFA during their biggest weekend of the year,” said Neumiller. “This All-Star Game isn’t just a competition—it’s a celebration of the people who are changing the game.”

“One of the goals of both our leagues is to showcase underrepresented athletes in our growing sport,” said PUL Commissioner Amanda Dallas. “This game is an exciting opportunity to celebrate our athletes and share their accomplishments with some of the biggest fans of ultimate in the world.”

“UFA Championship Weekend showcases the league’s top four teams and ultimately crowns a champion,” says CEO and Commissioner Tim DeByl, “but it’s also the biggest celebration of our sport, our athletes and our fans from around the world. Hosting the WUL and PUL for this groundbreaking event is exciting for our entire community, as all of our leagues continue to grow.”

The game will be streamed live and for free on YouTube, and admission to the game will be included with any 2025 UFA Championship Weekend ticket (weekend pass or single-day), along with an optional donation to a shared WUL and PUL fund. More information will be made available on the 2025 UFA Championship Weekend site.

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The Western Ultimate League was established to advance the sport of ultimate frisbee by showcasing and amplifying women and non-binary athletes. Recognizing the privilege that got us here, our mission is to: Increase accessibility, promote the visibility of underrepresented athletes, cultivate a culture of inclusion and equity, and use our influence and platform to broaden the spaces where our sport grows and develops.

Interested in becoming a sponsor or supporter of the Western Ultimate League? Contact marketing@westernultimateleague.com.

League Update March 2025

March 21, 2025

WUL Is Back – Don’t Miss Opening Weekend!-

Dear WUL Community,

With just over 24 hours until Opening Weekend, we’re thrilled to kick off the 2025 season with two exciting matchups:

March 22: Colorado Alpenglow @ Utah Wild | 4:00 PM PT
March 23: Arizona Sidewinders @ San Diego Super Bloom | 2:00 PM PT

Keeping with tradition, the season opener is a rematch of the 2024 WUL Championship game, where Colorado’s strength was on full display. On Sunday, Arizona Sidewinders will face off against San Diego Super Bloom, who beat them twice by only three total points in 2024. Will the Alpenglow defend their title, or will Utah Wild seize the win at home? Can Arizona start the season on a high note and get the win on the road? Watch this weekend to find out!

By the end of Week 2, all seven teams will be in action. This includes the debut of Oregon Soar, who will face off against two-time league champions Seattle Tempest. Bay Area Falcons will also travel to Arizona after a near-perfect regular season in 2024, followed by a tough semi-final loss. With Seattle narrowly missing out on Championship Weekend last year, both Seattle and Bay Area will be looking to prove they’re still teams to beat. We’re in for a season full of intense competition as all seven teams battle for one of the four coveted spots at Championship Weekend!

Check out our stats dashboard for all the team and player info, plus stay tuned for more details on how to use and interpret our advanced stats operation.

Can’t make it in person? All WUL games will be streamed free on our WUL YouTube channel. Be sure to check out the full season schedule and mark your calendars—this is one season you won’t want to miss!

Before we jump into the action, we want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you who supported our Be A Megafan Campaign. You all collectively generated $110,000 in revenue through the player jersey campaign, and another $500+ in direct donations to help fuel the growth of the league. Thank you again for showing up for our players and our teams, both on and off the field. If you missed the sale, you can still grab team replica gear at Breakmark.com or make a donation to further support the league’s growth.

There’s something truly special about seeing the season take shape, and we can’t wait to share this journey with all of you. Here’s to an unforgettable 2025 season!

Nicole Neumiller

WUL Executive Director