Redefining Excellence in Sports
USA Ultimate and its players have proudly embraced and celebrated Spirit, honoring individuals who have positively contributed to the sport as well as teams who exemplify fair play in competition. Each year, peer-nominated players are recognized in the club and masters division while Team Spirit awards are given at all USA Ultimate championship events. Beyond awards and formal recognition, the ultimate community also displays Spirit in a variety of unique and creative ways, often times filling a void left by other sports. The culture of Spirit is woven into the entire spectrum of ultimate, from grassroots, recreational players up to elite-level competition.
2023 Club Division Spirit Awards
2023 Kathy Pufahl Spirit Award
Maggie Ruden
Fury
2023 Peter Farricker Spirit Award
Timmy Perston
Salem Rhino Slam!
2023 Spirit & Equity Award (Women)
Robyn Fennig
Madison NOISE
2023 Spirit & Equity Award (Men)
Josue Alorro
New York XIST
2023 Masters Division Spirit Awards
2023 Marty Bakko Award
Jason Arends
Gravy Train
2023 Women’s Masters Spirt Award
Cate Roscoe
Mint
The Culture of Spirit
Opposing Teams on the Same Sideline
Both teams share the same sideline, leading to in-game dialogue and interaction between opponents and a unique dynamic that strengthens communication and community.
A Penchant for Celebrating
Despite frequent scoring, teams celebrate goals with creativity and enthusiasm.
Spirit Gifts
Especially in international competition, teams exchange Spirit gifts after a game, usually a small but meaningful token that’s indicative of a country’s culture.
Dancing
Some teams do choreographed dances, often inviting their opponents to join.
Spirit Games
Even amidst a competitive tournament, players often embrace the idea that ultimate should be fun above all else, inventing and playing games on the sidelines between rounds.
A supportive and vocal sideline
From the sideline, players lift up and support their on-field teammates with words of encouragement, sometimes including quirky chants and cheers.
Engaged and passionate fans
Spirit spills over to the sidelines and stands as fans, friends, parents and other supporters back their favorite team in creative and fun ways.
Celebrate and Support Your Opponent
High fives and other gestures acknowledging a goal or a win aren’t just reserved for teammates. Players often show similar support for their opponent too.
Festive Tournaments
Not all events are serious affairs. Fun recreational tournaments – some even with themes and costumes – are common and highlight the lighter side of ultimate.
Lending a helping hand
Offering assistance to a fallen or injured opponent is a common sign of respect that occurs frequently throughout the course of a game.
Traditions
Unless otherwise prohibited by tournament rules, a good luck charm or other items representing a team tradition might make an appearance, keeping the mood light and the focus on fun.
Quotes from the Community
