Colorado Springs, Colo. (March 31, 2026) – Today USA Ultimate, the national governing body for the sport of ultimate in the United States and member of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, opens nominations for the 2026 Callahan Award.
For over 30 years, the Callahan has been awarded annually to recognize the most valuable players in college ultimate. Award nominees display not only superior skill and athleticism — making difficult plays look easy — they also demonstrate outstanding sportsmanship, leadership and dedication to the sport of ultimate.
Players can be nominated by their teams or by USA Ultimate college regional directors through May 1. Nominee videos and biographies will be available at callahanaward.com as nominations are accepted, beginning May 5. Current collegiate players will be able to cast their votes for student-athletes in their division — men’s or women’s — though May 12. One winner from each division will be announced live during a ceremony on Sunday, May 24th at the D-I National College Championships in Rockford, Ill.
Founded by Charles Kerr in 1996, the award is named for Henry Callahan, an ultimate player and one of the sport’s original organizers. Last year’s Callahan recipients were Dexter Clyburn of California and Laura Blume of UC Santa Barbara. A list of all past winners and 2026 award information can be found at callahanaward.com/history.
2026 Callahan Award Timeline
Tuesday, March 31: Nominations Open
Friday, May 1: Nominations Close
Tuesday, May 5: Voting Opens
Tuesday, May 12: Voting Closes
Sunday, May 24: Winners Announced
