Lighting The Torch
The first professional ultimate game...ever!
On May 12th, 2018, a significant step is being taken towards the inception of a professional women’s ultimate league. The Austin Torch—one of the professional women’s teams created in the United States in efforts to promote women in ultimate—is set to square off against the Medellin Revolution, one of the favourites to win WUCC after an impressive performance at the US Open last year.
Torch vs. Revolution Hype Video
Although both teams are looking for a victory, winning isn’t the goal of the game. Dre Esparza, co-owner and captain of The Torch, highlighted the importance of this event: “Making this happen has been first and foremost about getting the Texas female ultimate players the recognition they deserve. Through this platform, and with the overwhelming support of the community, these athletes get to showcase their talent to the people of Austin and beyond.”
But it doesn’t stop at just one game for Dre and The Torch: “Ideally, this event will lead to an entity stepping up to become a full-time financial backer so that we can rely on funds on a more permanent basis, instead of having to fish out of the community for every game. Our long-term goal is just that: to build a sustainable league.”
Mauricio Moore, the head coach of Revolution, shares Dre’s enthusiasm: “It’s the first step for us in the professional ultimate world. It’s a door opening for a new women’s ultimate culture, and it’s an honor to represent one small step for Revolution that will become a giant leap for women’s ultimate.” When asked what the overarching goal of this game was for Revolution, Mauricio simply said that creating a new paradigm for women’s ultimate was key.
Tune in on YouTube at 5 PM Central on Saturday, May 12th, to see these two talented teams make history, and don’t forget to donate to help support this event.