Pre-Series Record: 8-7 Series Record: 9-5 End of Season: T5 at Northwest Regionals (eliminated by UBC)
Coaches: Pat McCarthy and Gabe Pederson
Recent History:
UW has been very up and down since last making nationals in 2005. After forgettable campaigns in ’06-’08 the Sundodgers were back on the upswing in 2009. Led by Joe ‘BJ’ Sefton and Eddie Feeley, the ’09 Sundodgers placed 3rd in the old Northwest. With the talent and experience from the ‘09 team gone, UW went into 2010 knowing that it needed to rebuild. A pre-series season (Santa Barbara Invite, Trouble In Vegas, Centex) plagued by inclement weather was of no help to the rebuilding effort.
A shorthanded and inexperienced roster saw UW take on the series with a goal to break seed. The Sundodgers were able to do so at NW Regionals by placing tied for 5th after being seeded 9th.
Roster Turnover and Offseason Club Experience:
Although the experience and throws of offensive handler Sean Rohan will be missed, the core of the ‘10 team remains intact. UW returns 14 of 19 from that squad; 3 Sophmores, 3 Juniors, 7 Seniors and 1 Grad.
Included in the returners are captains Eric Braun, Greg Brey and Phil Murray. Much of the returning Sundodgers played in Seattle’s club or summer league scene. Notably Murray, who had a successful rookie campaign with Seattle Sockeye working his way onto the O line and becoming one of their down field threats in both Prague and Sarasota.
Joining the captains and 11 other returners are a slew of hungry players and two graduate transfers. Bryson Uhrig-Fox (Reed, Portland Rhino) and David Benkeser (Georgia) are two solid handlers that give UW added experience from both club and college.
Past Strategy:
The Sundodger O is vintage Seattle Ultimate with fast disc movement and quick hucks. On defense UW is mostly a force one way man D team.
Scheduled Tournaments:
Santa Barbara Invite (2nd), President’s Day, Stanford Invite, Centex
2011 Outlook:
A regional title in the new Northwest region would be unexpected of UW considering they’d have to go through both UBC and Oregon. Still, if there are two bids UW should be expected to be in the backdoor final at worst.
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