An exciting new era in Oregon sports is taking flight. Oregon Soar, the state’s newest semi-professional women’s sports team, is gearing up for it's inaugural season, bringing together a roster of talented athletes to compete at the highest levels of ultimate. But before the first pull, ultimate’s version of a kickoff, the team is laying the groundwork for more than just winning games. They are building a culture rooted in teamwork, growth, and respect—values that define the sport.
What is Ultimate?
If you have never watched a game of ultimate, you are not alone. However, the sport is growing rapidly, fueled by its fast-paced, highlight-reel plays and its uniquely inclusive and playful culture. Ultimate is played seven-on-seven on a field about the size of a football field. The goal is simple: throw the disc downfield from teammate to teammate and catch it in the opposing team’s end zone to score. Like basketball, players pivot and cut to get open. Like soccer, movement is constant.
What truly sets ultimate apart is the “Spirit of the Game,” a philosophy that places responsibility for fair play directly on the athletes. Unlike other sports at this level, players call their own fouls and resolve conflicts themselves, turning to an official “observer” for ruling only if there is no agreement. The game relies on communication, honesty, and mutual respect.
A Sport and a Movement
The launch of Oregon Soar comes at a time when women’s sports are experiencing unprecedented growth. From record-breaking attendance at women’s soccer matches to the meteoric rise in popularity of the WNBA, demand for high-level women’s competition has never been stronger. Yet ultimate remains under the radar for many fans.
Soar is determined to change that.
The team’s creation was set in motion by owners Darci Fredricks and Bill Freeman, who started shaping their vision for Oregon professional ultimate in April 2024 and have worked in tandem with players and the community to create a unique, family - friendly experience for local sports fans.
“We are proud to have created Oregon Ultimate Alliance, a company with two exciting pro ultimate teams,” says Darci. "We began this journey with Oregon Steel last year and saw the opportunity to bring in a women's team. As a retired women's player myself, it has been amazing to provide the athletes of Soar an opportunity I never saw available when I played."
A pivotal step was assembling an all-star coaching staff, all of whom have played and coached on the biggest stages of the sport.
“Darci and the coaches have really shown how passionate and excited they are about this team and the future of women’s ultimate,” says Agnes Lee, one of Soar’s newly signed players. “Communication is open, leadership is approachable, and you can tell how invested everybody is.”
Even before their inaugural game, Soar is already making a positive impact in the community. The team held a youth clinic on March 8 in Eugene where players were able to pass on their knowledge and skills to the next generation. This event underscores the team's commitment to growing the sport at every level, in line with Soar’s mission of “inspiring a new generation of athletes” and contributing to the community.
Building a Team from the Ground Up
One of the most compelling aspects of this new team is the range of experience on the roster. Players come from all over Oregon and represent multiple generations, from current college athletes to longtime veterans of the sport.
“There’s a great mix of familiar and new faces, and everybody brings something special,” says Agnes. “I’m also really excited to be coached by Chelsea, Jody, and Gunny, who all have so much experience and knowledge. I want to learn as much as I can!”
That eagerness to grow is reflected in the team’s early practices. As the team continues to build chemistry, there is already a culture of mutual support and enthusiasm developing.
Jackie Matonis, another Soar player who founded Oregon Scorch, one of the state’s top club teams, recalls a particularly memorable moment at tryouts:
“Watching the college kids absolutely ball out at tryouts and practice has been so fun. Their combination of excitement, fearlessness, and skill is incredible. I remember Amelie getting a layout grab at tryouts and the entire squad cheering for her. That reaction let me know this was a team I definitely wanted to be part of.”
Defining Team Culture
A team’s identity is shaped as much by leadership as it is by play on the field. From the start, Soar’s coaching staff and veteran players have established an environment that is welcoming, supportive, and competitive.
“Leadership has done a really fantastic job of making Soar an incredibly welcoming and fun space,” says Jackie. “Coaches have an innate way of uplifting us while still providing feedback. It’s in the small things, like how Chelsea almost exclusively addresses us all as ‘rockstars’.”
That emphasis on culture is part of what makes ultimate special. The sport relies on players being able to practice collaboration, problem-solving, and conflict resolution. These are skills that extend far beyond the field.
Looking Ahead
Preseason is just the beginning. With each practice, Oregon Soar is refining its identity as both competitors and ambassadors of the sport. As the season approaches, fans can follow their journey from the opening games to what promises to be a thrilling and competitive season.
For those new to ultimate, now is the perfect time to start paying attention. Whether you are a lifelong sports fan or just curious about this fast-growing game, Soar is ready to show why women’s ultimate deserves a spotlight.
For seasoned fans and newcomers alike, Soar’s games aim to offer something for everyone. From competitive play on the field to family - friendly activities off the field, it’s sure to be an experience that’s fun and welcoming for all ages.
“I’m so honored to be playing at this level,” says Agnes. “I didn’t think I’d ever make it this far, so it feels like a dream come true.”
Oregon Soar takes the field for their first game this Saturday at 5pm against the Seattle Tempest. You can watch the game live and for free by visiting the WUL's Youtube page at game time.
Follow Oregon Soar on Instagram @Oregon_Soar for updates, game schedules, and behind-the-scenes content. Oregon Soar is part of Oregon Ultimate Alliance. You can visit www.soarultimate.com to learn more as well as purchase tickets and merchandise.
Written by Avi Taylor