As we get ready to kick off another season of the Western Ultimate League, I want to take a moment to say how excited I am for what’s ahead.
WUL and PUL to Renew All-Star Rivalry at 2026 UFA Championship Weekend
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.
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.
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.
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!
Los Angeles Astra Announces Return to WUL for 2026 Season
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.
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.
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
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.
—
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
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 Awards Winners
2025 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:
Kaela Helton
The league’s most decorated player, Helton delivered yet another electric season with San Diego Super Bloom. In 2025, she tallied over 1,100 receiving yards without a single receiving error—a feat unmatched by anyone else in the league, with the next closest player under 700 yards. Helton was one of only three athletes to rank top five on her team in goals, assists, blocks, throwing yards, and receiving yards—a testament to her dominance on every inch of the field. An opponent put it best: “Helton has reached another level this year.” A two-time MVP in 2022 and 2023 and a finalist in 2024, Helton now earns her third league MVP title, further solidifying her legendary status. Her Week 1 performance—11 combined goals and assists, 300+ throwing yards, 300+ receiving yards—marked her second career game with that stat line, something no other player has ever achieved even once. With career totals of 56 goals, 77 assists, and 55 blocks, Kaela Helton remains simply unstoppable.
Offensive Player of the Year - Ari Nelson
Colorado Alpenglow’s offensive engine, Ari Nelson, delivered another record-setting season in 2025—cementing their place as one of the league’s most formidable throwers. Nelson led the league in assists (20), throwing yards (2,506), and total yards (2,740), outpacing the next closest player by more than 300 yards. Averaging 417 throwing yards per game, Nelson set the single-game record in Week 1 with an astonishing 622 yards through the air. An opposing coach summed it up best: “I can’t get over how much of the offensive load Ari takes on for their team—they’re just a force with the disc.” With their unmatched field vision and cannon of an arm, Ari Nelson earns their second consecutive WUL Offensive Player of the Year title—and it’s easy to see why.
Defensive Player of the Year - Sadie Jezierski
With a league-leading 16 blocks this season, Seattle Tempest’s Sadie Jezierski proved once again that she’s one of the most disruptive forces in the game. Known for punishing opponent mistakes and instantly flipping momentum, Jezierski consistently turned defensive stops into offensive opportunities—racking up 17 assists, the second-highest in the league. Her 16 blocks not only led the WUL but also tied her for the fourth-most ever recorded in a single season. A fierce competitor and clutch playmaker, Jezierski anchored Seattle’s postseason push and elevated her game to new heights in 2025. Simply put, she was everywhere—and her impact was undeniable.
Breakout Player of the Year - Brittany Stettmeier
Week after week, Brittany “Britto” Stettmeier delivered elite-level performances while taking on one of the heaviest offensive loads in the league. Leading all players in offensive points played, Stettmeier matched that volume with poise and efficiency—posting an impressive 91% completion rate.
Statistically, she was unmatched -- leading the league in both goals and receiving yards, with 17 goals and 1,337 receiving yards.. But it wasn’t just the numbers that stood out. Her game-saving layouts, end zone bids, and clutch resets showed a player with grit, vision, and intensity that lit up the field. Stettmeier didn’t just break out—she broke through, establishing herself as a cornerstone of the Sidewinders and a rising star in the league.
Coaching Staff of the Year - Colorado Alpenglow
Head Coach Madison "Badger" Oleson, Defensive Coach Lena Goren and Offensive Coach Thomas Echols
The Colorado Alpenglow coaching staff proved themselves as one of the most disciplined and effective units in the league. Colorado went undefeated in the regular season (6-0), led the league in goals scored and offensive efficiency, and tied for the highest point differential at +36.
Their leadership turned a talented roster into a dominant force, earning the respect of players across the league. Alpenglow athletes said it best: “They are a hardworking group that always found a way to keep pushing us forward.” This staff didn’t just coach a team—they built a culture of excellence.
WUL Award Ceremony Gallery
Photography Credit: Rodney Chen, Ultiphotos
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
League Update December 2024
December 22, 2024
-
Hello WUL Community,
Happy New Year! Throughout the last couple months, folks across all seven teams have been consistently at work to prepare for the 2025 season.
Early signing announcements are in full swing. Among the many highly skilled players already announced are all 4 WUL Player of the Year Award Winners from 2024. Abby Thorpe (MVP), Ari Nelson (Offensive Player of the Year), Dena Elimelech (Defensive Player of the Year), and Abbie Davis (Breakout Player of the Year) are all committed to return to their teams again this season. Let’s gooooo!
Full team rosters will be dropping in the next few weeks, leading up to the kick-off of our annual Be A Megafan campaign on Tuesday, January 14th to Friday, January 17th. Set a calendar reminder because this is our biggest revenue event of the year. It helps fund both your favorite teams and Western Ultimate League operations for the 2025 season.
This year we will have our ultra limited edition jerseys — only 8 each player! — and a special new alternate item to be revealed on January 14th.
Popular player jerseys go FAST, so order yours early. These items are only available until the 4 day campaign ends. Around 60% of each jersey sale during the campaign goes directly to your favorite team; a phenomenal amount with additional funds going to the league. A big shoutout to our official jersey sponsor, Breakmark, for partnering with us to make this campaign happen every year. Check out the WUL newsletter and social media for more details and surprises to come.
It's been a busy few months and we cannot wait to celebrate five years (!!!) together in January. So much work, passion, and joy has gone into establishing this professional league for women and non-binary players over the last five years. We are looking forward to continuing to build together with every one of you in 2025. We're so glad you're here.
In community,
Nicole Neumiller
WUL Executive Director
League Update October 2024
October 31, 2024
Hello WUL Community!
What an exciting time it is to join the Western Ultimate League.
I had the distinct pleasure of attending Championship Weekend in Denver in June, where Colorado Alpenglow took home the 2024 WUL Championship title in front of their home crowd, and in just their second year as a team. Utah Wild joined them in the final, both teams having earned their spots in close semi-finals match-ups where teams competed with a tenacity that could have secured any one of them the Championship. Players commuted from as far as Oklahoma to play, and loyal fan bases traveled from across the country to witness the event in person. It was a contest between the technically precise throws that the women's division is known for and the seemingly impossible defensive bids that the professional level requires. It was a fitting end to a season packed with epic comebacks and high-scoring games won by mere inches. Being part of this event solidified my decision to join the league to invest in the professional playing opportunities and visibility of women and non-binary athletes.
Women’s sports and women’s ultimate continues to grow and thrive. This September, we welcomed the Oregon Soar franchise for the upcoming season. Oregon has a history of amplifying the talent of strong women and non-binary athletes and a deep enthusiasm for the sport of ultimate. In addition to Soar, we are happy to announce the return of all of last season's teams, filling out our now 7-team league for the 2025 season.
Our athletes have been busy during the off-season, with an incredible showing by WUL players in women’s and mixed divisions at both World Ultimate Championships and USAU Club Nationals – including many gold medals with Team USA. A big shoutout to players from the 2024 WUL season who represented Team USA this summer with gold medal wins – Dena ElimelEch (Super Bloom), Jade McLaughlin (Alpenglow), Kaela Helton (Super Bloom), Kendra Miller (Wild), Sadie Jezierski (Tempest), Sam Rodenberg (Tempest), Sharon Lin (Falcons), and Shayla Harris (Falcons).
As we head into tryout season in November and December, it is abundantly clear that the magic of this league isn’t happening only on the fields. The staff, coaching leadership, volunteers, and fans involved in the league and teams of the WUL are an essential part of this community. Behind the scenes is a massive year-round effort of teamwork (much of it volunteer) to make it all happen.
One key way to join this year-round effort is the 2025 Annual Be A Megafan campaign in January. With nearly 60% of Limited Edition Megafan Jersey sales going directly to the team you want to support, your purchases are crucial to funding your favorite team and the WUL. Investing in this limited edition merchandise is one way we’re working toward a profitable, sustainable professional sports business model.
We continue to be inspired by the rise of other women’s sports both domestically and internationally. This month’s WNBA Finals Game 5 peaked at 3.3 million viewers, closing out a season with record-setting social media engagement and sell-out games. The WNFC has raised $1 million to accelerate growth and equity for women in football. Women’s sports are poised to generate more than $1.28 billion globally in 2024, a 300% growth over the last three years. This year’s 50 Most Marketable Athlete list from SportsPro included 22 women with legendary Simone Biles as number No. 1, and influential athletes Caitlin Clark, Rebeca Andrade, and Ilona Maher in the Top 8.
This is what happens when we invest financially, physically and emotionally in women's sports and the fans of women’s sports.
Imagine what we can build together.
In community,
Nicole Neumiller
WUL Executive Director