Divisional Spirit Awards

Each gender division at the National Championships has an award that honors individuals who, in addition to displaying the highest level of spirit, gives back to the ultimate community, elevating one of the sport’s core values.

Farricker Award, est. 2002

Named for Peter “Wheels” Farricker, the men’s division spirit award is given to the player at the National Championships adjudged to have exhibited personal responsibility, integrity, and fairness combined with a high standard of playing ability. Each Nationals-qualifying men’s team nominates one player from their own team for the award as the person who best represents Spirit of the Game.

Pufahl Award, est. 2004

Named for Kathy Pufahl, the women’s division spirit award honors the athlete who best exemplifies both the ethos of Spirit of the Game, along with a personal commitment to giving back to the sport. Each team at the National Championships casts a vote for one of the nominees, selected by their individual teams, taking into account who has exhibited personal responsibility, integrity and selfless contribution to ultimate, combined with a high standard of playing ability.

Spirit & Equity Award, est. 2016

The mixed division’s Spirit and Equity Award is given to one female- and one male-identified player each year. The winners are determined by Nationals-qualifying mixed teams and honor athletes who have exhibited personal integrity, responsibility and fairness, along with a commitment to enhancing equity in play and in their communities.

Team Spirit Awards

At the end of each game at the National Championships, teams are asked to rate their opponents’ spirit, as well as their own, in a number of categories, including communication, rules knowledge and fair-mindedness. The scores are averaged, and the team in each division with the highest score is awarded the Team Spirit Award.