2026 Western Ultimate League All-WUL Second Team

2026 Western Ultimate League All-WUL Second Team

The All-WUL Teams recognize the all-around top players in the league for the 2026 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.

Before checking out this year’s All-WUL Team honors, we recommend reviewing the WUL stats and stat definitions page to get familiar with the advanced metrics featured in the selections below.

Abbi Shilts (SD)

Abbi Shilts established themself as the focal point of San Diego Super Bloom’s attack in 2026, pairing game-breaking athleticism with consistent production to earn recognition as a 2026 MVP finalist and a spot on the All-WUL Second Team. Whether skying defenders for highlight-reel grabs or generating momentum-changing blocks, they delivered impact plays in every phase of the game.

Shilts led San Diego with 16 goals and 1,204 receiving yards while also tying for third on the team with nine blocks, showcasing the two-way versatility that made them one of the league’s most dangerous matchup problems. Their ability to attack deep space and win contested discs gave Super Bloom a constant vertical threat, while their defensive instincts regularly created possessions.

Shilts erupted in Week 1 for six goals and 271 receiving yards against Bay Area to earn WUL Player of the Week honors. It was the kind of explosive performance that became their calling card throughout the season, combining elite speed, body control, and timing to produce plays few others in the league could make.

From acrobatic catches to momentum-swinging blocks, Shilts’ remarkable athleticism elevated San Diego on both sides of the disc and made them a deserving selection to the 2026 All-WUL Second Team.

Caitlin Fitzgerald (OR)

Caitlin Fitzgerald made an immediate impact in their first season with Oregon Soar, quickly establishing themself as one of the league's most disruptive defenders. After previously competing with Portland Rising in the Premier Ultimate League (PUL), Fitzgerald brought their trademark athleticism to the WUL and wasted little time announcing their arrival.

They burst on the scene with a dominant performance in Oregon’s doubleheader in Week 3, earning Player of the Week honors for 4 goals, 3 blocks, and 273 total yards against Utah, and 2 goals, 4 assists, and 394 yards against Colorado.

They finished tied for third on the team with 1.2 blocks per game and ranked fourth on Oregon in Relative Defensive Efficiency, a reflection of just how much stronger Soar became with them on the field. But the numbers only tell part of the story. Week after week, Fitzgerald seemed to produce at least one highlight-reel layout block, turning routine possessions into momentum-shifting plays and energizing their teammates in the process.

For a player adjusting to both a new team and a new league, Fitzgerald's consistency and game-changing defensive presence made them an easy choice for the 2026 All-WUL Second Team.

Eva Bell (UT)

Utah Wild relied on 19-year-old Eva Bell to do just about everything in 2026, and they delivered every time. Identified as a pre-season X-Factor, Bell captained the offense from the handler space while seamlessly shifting into an initiating cutter role, finishing as the team's leader in assists (21), throwing yards (2,666), and total yards (3,844)—ranking seventh, third, and second in the league in those categories, respectively. They also led the entire WUL with 373 completions, added seven blocks, and finished third on the team in receiving yards.

What made Bell's season especially impressive was the consistency. Even as Utah faced difficult matchups and often found themself playing from behind, Bell remained a fixture atop the league leaderboards, dictating flow and finding her teammates downfield. As one teammate put it, "Just give Eva the ball." Whether resetting under pressure, attacking as an initiating cutter, or launching the next big throw, Bell had an answer.

That versatility—and the trust it inspired throughout the roster—made Bell one of the league's most valuable all-around playmakers and a deserving 2026 Breakout Player of the Year nomination and 2026 All-WUL Second Team selection.

Kennedy McCarthy (CO)

Kennedy McCarthy's breakout season was impossible to ignore. In their first full campaign as a major contributor for Colorado Alpenglow and the WUL, they emerged as one of the league's most dynamic two-way stars and a driving force behind the team's success, earning the honor of 2026 Breakout Player of the Year.

McCarthy stuffed the stat sheet from every angle, finishing second on Colorado with 20 goals and 10 blocks while adding 13 assists, a team-best 129 Player Efficiency Rating, and 1,957 total yards. Whether generating turns, stretching the field deep, or taking command after the disc changed hands, they consistently found ways to impact winning.

Their season was also filled with unforgettable moments. Against Seattle Tempest in Week 2, McCarthy became the first player in WUL history to record a 3-goal, 4-assist, 4-block performance, punctuated by a layout Callahan that helped earn the first of two Player of the Week honors. They later became the only player in 2026 to win the award twice after erupting for 5 goals, 3 assists, and 416 total yards in another dominant outing.

From game-breaking defensive plays to offensive takeovers, McCarthy proved they could do it all, making their selection to the 2026 All-WUL Second Team a fitting recognition of one of the season's brightest stars.

Kristen Reed (AZ)

Kristen Reed entered 2026 as Arizona's preseason Player to Watch and spent the season proving why. A finalist for 2026 Defensive Player of the Year and former Colorado Alpenglow captain and scoring stand out, Reed anchored the Sidewinders' defense while simultaneously emerging as their most dangerous deep threat.

On defense, they tied for the team lead with 11 blocks and 1.4 blocks per game while ranking third in defensive points played, consistently taking the toughest matchups and generating momentum-shifting turns. On offense, Reed was just as impactful, leading Arizona with 19 goals and 1,590 receiving yards. Their 19 scores also set a new franchise single-season record, showcasing an uncanny ability to get open when it mattered most.

Few players influenced games on both sides of the disc for Arizona as completely as Reed. From erasing possessions with timely run-through blocks to finishing scores in the end zone, they embodied the definition of a two-way star and earned a well-deserved place on the 2026 All-WUL Second Team.

Meg Manning (SEA)

Meg Manning's impact on Seattle Tempest went far beyond generating turnovers—they made sure those turnovers ended up on the scoreboard. Manning, who joined from PUL’s Raleigh Radiance, combined relentless defense with explosive counterattack offense to become one of the league's most dangerous D-line weapons, earning a nomination as 2026 Defensive Player of the Year.

They finished second on Seattle with 13 blocks, tied for fifth in the WUL in both total blocks and blocks per game (1.6), consistently disrupting opposing offenses. But once the disc changed hands, Manning transformed into a premier deep threat. Despite playing primarily defensive points, they tied for sixth in the league with 19 goals, ranked fourth with 1,712 receiving yards, and finished second in Receptions Above Expected (15.9), routinely turning defensive stops into instant scores.

Manning's ability to stretch the field culminated in a new WUL single-season record with 17 huck receptions, underscoring just how lethal they were in transition. That two-way ability played a large part in Tempest’s championship campaign and their selection for the 2026 All-WUL Second Team

Sarah Itoh (CO)

Sarah Itoh didn't just win 2026 Defensive Player of the Year—they authored one of the most dominant defensive seasons the WUL has ever seen. After transitioning into a full-time defensive role this season, Itoh became the centerpiece of Colorado Alpenglow's relentless pressure, turning routine possessions into takeaways with remarkable consistency.

They led the league with 19 blocks, tying the WUL single-season record, while also finishing second in both blocks per game (2.4) and block rate (11.9%). Every week seemed to bring another momentum-shifting play, including a five-block masterpiece against Utah that matched the highest single-game total recorded in 2026. Their anticipation, closing speed, and impeccable timing made throwing windows disappear and offensive game plans unravel.

But Itoh's value extended beyond the stat sheet. They elevated Colorado's entire defensive identity, routinely creating short-field opportunities and changing the complexion of games through sheer disruption. By pairing elite athleticism with exceptional field awareness, Itoh established themself as the league's premier defensive force and an undeniable selection for the 2026 All-WUL Second Team.

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Note: Selections were based on voting results for the 2026 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

2026 Western Ultimate League All-WUL First Team

2026 Western Ultimate League All-WUL First Team

The All-WUL Teams recognize the all-around top players in the league for the 2026 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.

Before checking out this year’s All-WUL Team honors, we recommend reviewing the WUL stats and stat definitions page to get familiar with the advanced metrics featured in the selections below.

Abby Thorpe (CO)

Abby Thorpe once again proved why they’ve been one of the WUL’s defining stars, building on three consecutive MVP finalist campaigns (including winning the award in 2024) with yet another First Team-worthy performance. They led Colorado Alpenglow with 22 goals and added 20 assists while finishing among the team leaders in blocks, showcasing the all-around game that has made them one of the league’s most difficult matchups.

Thorpe’s ability to chew up field space was unmatched. They led the entire WUL with 2,434 receiving yards—a new single-season league record—and also paced the league in total yards with 3,870, reaching 10,000 for their career (only the second player to do so in WUL history).

In Week 1 against Oregon, they rewrote the record book with 452 receiving yards, the highest single-game mark in WUL history. They were also one of the rare players to finish in their team’s top five in goals, assists, blocks, throwing yards, and receiving yards, highlighting their ability to contribute in every phase of the game.

Just as important was the effect they had on everyone around them. Thorpe led the league in Relative Offensive Efficiency, with Colorado’s offense reaching another level whenever they were on the field. As one opponent observed, “Abby’s relentless cutting and ability to carry a heavy load through the whole season adds a dimension to Colorado’s play that no other player is capable of.” 

Alex Barnett (BAY)

Alex Barnett wasted no time making their mark in their first season with the WUL and Bay Area, identified as a pre-season Player to Watch, emerging as one of the league’s most reliable engines, and finishing as an Offensive Player of the Year finalist. They tied for the team lead with 13 goals, added 12 assists, ranked second in throwing yards with 1,431, and finished fifth in receiving yards, stuffing the stat sheet while serving as one of Bay’s most dependable playmakers.

What set Barnett apart was just how cleanly they produced. They were the only player in the WUL to surpass 2,000 total yards this season while committing fewer than 10 turnovers, pairing high-volume touches with exceptional decision-making. Their advanced metrics backed it up, too: second in the league in Player Efficiency Rating, third in Completions Above Expected, and fourth in Receptions Above Expected. They were also one of the select few players to finish in the league in their team’s top five in goals, assists, blocks, throwing yards, and receiving yards.

As one teammate put it, “Alex Barnett will get themself open no matter what to keep the disc and offense moving.” That relentless ability to create separation, combined with a calm presence and elite efficiency, made Barnett an invaluable addition to Bay Area and a deserving selection to the 2026 All-WUL First Team.

Cheryl Hsu (SEA)

Cheryl Hsu was the conductor of Seattle Tempest’s high-powered offense all season, earning the title of 2026 Offensive Player of the Year with a blend of vision, efficiency, and execution. Preseason expectations were high for Hsu, named a 2026 Player to Watch, and they did not disappoint. They finished second on the team with 27 assists (third in the league) while adding 12 goals and ranking among the league leaders in total scores. Hsu also led Seattle Tempest with 2,899 throwing yards and amassed 3,331 total yards, the second- and fourth-highest totals in the league, respectively.

Their ability to attack every inch of the field made them nearly impossible to defend. Hsu completed 17 of 20 huck attempts, an 85% success rate, that set a new WUL record among players with at least 15 hucks in a season. Whether patiently working underneath or uncorking pinpoint bombs, they consistently generated high-value offense and put opposing defenses on their heels. Their five-assist, 480-throwing-yard masterpiece against Oregon in Week 6 earned Player of the Week honors and served as a perfect snapshot of their impact.

As one teammate put it, “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.” With a history of excellence, record-setting deep accuracy, and the ability to dictate the tempo of every possession, Hsu was the driving force behind one of the WUL’s most dangerous offenses.

Chip Yen (LA)

Chip Yen did a little bit of everything for Los Angeles Astra this season—and did it at an elite level. Named a pre-season X-Factor, they delivered. They finished tied for second in the league with 22 goals, ranked second on the team with 12 assists, led the team with 13 blocks, and piled up 1,964 receiving yards, the second-highest total in the WUL. Remarkably, they were one of just two players across the league to rank in the top two on their own team in goals, assists, and blocks, underscoring their impact on both sides of the disc.

Whether stretching the field deep or operating through the middle as a connector, Yen was a constant problem for opposing defenses. Their Week 7 performance against Utah—a jaw-dropping five goals, four assists, two blocks, 430 total yards, and just one turnover—earned Player of the Week honors and showcased the complete package they bring to the field. They followed that up by recording 426 receiving yards against San Diego in Week 8, the second-highest single-game total in WUL history.

As one teammate put it: “Chip is trusted both in the deep space and the middle of the field connecting handlers and cutters. They’re really fast and a very well-rounded player who excels in multiple aspects of the game.” 

There simply wasn’t a facet of the game where Yen didn’t make an impact, making them a finalist for 2026 MVP, and a clear choice for the 2026 All-WUL First Team.

Jamie Kauffman (SEA)

If there was a stat sheet to fill out for a Tempest game in 2026, Jamie Kauffman’s name was probably all over it. The 2026 WUL MVP authored one of the most complete seasons in WUL history, becoming the first player ever to finish first in both goals (24) and assists (29), with their 29 assists setting a new single-season league record. They also ranked second in the WUL with 18 blocks, making an impact every time they stepped on the field.

As a first-year player in the league, Kauffman’s versatility over the course of the season was astounding. They started on the Seattle D-line for the majority of the regular season before switching to O-line for the playoffs, using huge pulls to pin the opposing team’s offense deep, a big and active mark to frustrate life for opposing handlers and preventing hucks by actively patrolling the deep space. After forcing a turnover, Kauffman regularly was on both the throwing and receiving end of Seattle’s fast break attack. Additionally, a subtle talent of Kauffman’s this season was their composure in the red zone and ability to turn a possession into a goal no matter the situation. Like a star closer in baseball, once they got close to the end zone, Tempest would get the disc to Kauffman and she’d get the job every time.

Opposing defenses had no easy answer. As one coach noted, “Jamie has dominated the stat lines and completely alters how defenses have to counter Seattle's offensive attacks.” 

That unique defensive skillset, explosive offensive production, and unmatched red zone efficiency made Kauffman the engine behind Seattle Tempest’s success, and earned her the title of 2026 WUL MVP.

Rachel Egan (OR)

Another pre-season X-Factor, Rachel Egan was the steady force behind Oregon’s attack all season, combining efficiency, playmaking, and defensive grit into a complete campaign in 2026. They led the team with 15 goals, chipped in eight assists, tied for second with nine blocks, and finished tied for second on the team with 1,162 receiving yards, consistently finding ways to impact games on both sides of the disc.

Their signature performance came in Week 4 against Utah, when they erupted for two goals, six assists, four blocks, and 345 total yards without committing a single turnover, earning WUL Player of the Week honors. That mistake-free approach defined their season—Egan was the only player in the league to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards without recording a receiving error, a remarkable feat that helped propel them to the fourth-highest Player Efficiency Rating in the WUL.

Beyond the numbers, Egan’s presence was invaluable to Oregon’s success. As one teammate put it, “Egan’s offensive and defensive contributions make them very valuable on the O-line, and they are a great teammate and captain.” 

Reliable with the disc, disruptive on defense, and trusted in every big moment, Egan earned their place on the 2026 All-WUL First Team.

Robyn Fennig (BAY)

Robyn Fennig continued to cement their place among the WUL’s elite handlers in 2026, following up a 2025 MVP finalist season with another outstanding season that earned her 2026 Offensive Player of the Year finalist honors. With the disc in their hands, Bay Area’s offense flowed through Fennig’s vision, precision, and ability to create opportunities all over the field.

They led Bay Area in assists (18), throwing yards (2,195), total yards (2,678), and Completions Above Expected (13.9), with their throwing yardage ranking fourth in the WUL and their advanced completion metric trailing only one player league-wide. Time and again, Fennig paired high-volume touches with quality decision-making, consistently putting teammates in position to succeed while driving one of the league’s most efficient offenses.

Their signature performance came in Week 1 against San Diego Super Bloom, when they piled up 593 throwing yards—the second-highest single-game total in WUL history. The performance showcased their willingness to attack every part of the field, from patient resets to pinpoint deep shots, and set the tone for another exceptional campaign.

As the engine behind Bay Area’s offensive attack, Fennig blended consistency, creativity, and production at an elite level, making them a deserving choice for the 2026 All-WUL Second Team.

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Note: Selections were based on voting results for the 2026 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

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