Rockford, Ill. (May 24, 2026) – British Columbia’s Mika Kurahashi and Colorado’s Zeke Thoreson were named the winners of the 2026 Callahan Award during the semifinal round of the D-I College Championships, making Kurahashi not only UBC’s first winner ever, but the first Callahan Award winner from any Canadian school. Thoreson is Colorado’s fourth player to receive the award, following previous winners Josh Ackley (2004), Alex Snyder (2006) and Jimmy Mickle (2014).

A decisive presence on the field during UBC’s title win over Carleton last year, Kurahashi continues to be a top team contributor putting up 7 goals and 9 assists in the tournament so far. With one game standing between them and a return to the final, Kurahashi remains a vital part of UBC’s offense. Known for her cutting prowess, field sense and uncanny ability to get open on nearly any matchup, she also shows up for the big plays — as evidenced by her heads-up save during a key moment in last year’s final, and possession-saving layout in today’s quarterfinal matchup against Colorado.

In addition to helping lead UBC to their first national title in over a decade, Kurahashi has competed for Canada’s National Team, with three U-24 Team appearances, as well as silver medal finishes as a member of Canada’s 2024 World Ultimate Championships and 2025 World Games teams. She competed with the club team Vancouver Red Flag from 2022-24 and Seattle’s BFG in 2025.

While her contributions on the field are undeniable, Kurahashi’s team also recognizes the leadership she contributes outside her athletic performance:

“Mika has been the heart of the UBC Thunderbirds since joining the team in 2021. She consistently demonstrates exceptional talent, work ethic, and leadership on and off the field. A dominant force on the field, off the field she’s been a cultural anchor for the Thunderbirds, bringing composure and diligence to everything she does. No one is more deserving of the 2026 Callahan Award than Mika.”
– Jamie Jung, British Columbia Captain

Thoreson is perhaps best known as a shutdown defender, able to close throwing windows that most players assume to be open. But as Colorado attempts to win their way back into the final tonight he leads his team in goals for the Championships — having scored 9 in the tournament so far, along with 2 assists and 3 blocks. His impressive anticipation and timing continue to force opposing lines to plan around him while his exceptional closing speed, ability to play the deep space and seemingly impossible layout bids make his on field presence simply impossible to ignore.

A top defensive player who successfully transitioned to play a key role on Mamabird’s offensive line, Thoreson also played on the undefeated 2025 U-24 National Team, bringing home gold in the open division. Thoreson has played with club team Denver Johnny Bravo since 2023 and also plays for the semi-pro team Colorado Summit.

In keeping with the expectations for Callahan Award winners, Thoreson’s off field leadership and dedication to ultimate is clear in this shoutout from his team:

“Zeke embodies the culture of Mamabird: one built over years through humility, grit and care for others. As a captain, he elevates those around him, reinforcing the accountability and effort that define our team — and he has competed at the highest levels of the sport. Zeke’s impact is undeniable, but it’s how he competes with respect and relentless effort that sets him apart.“
– Ryan Shigley, Colorado Captain