#25 RACHEL OLSZEWSKI (Handler)

Along the Western reaches of the great continent, in a tower piercing an unprecedented storm, our heroine met an untimely adversary: a feral beast feasting on confectioneries of a companion. Instantly, she lept into action and was bitten fang-first into her throwing hand. Ever persistent, she persevered and silently demanded respect as she notched touch after touch and assist after assist on the sand the following day with beastly prowess. Had she become she-wolf or had she always been top dog? For 2017, it matters little; the moon is full and Rachel O is waiting.

#03 TAHA UDYAWAR (handler)

Perhaps conjecture, as witnesses to great feats are difficult to come by, it is told in circles that from across the plains of Pennsylvania an unsuspecting man cleared fallen rock along the Poconos with a mighty bellow from his booming voice in his travels to the Philadelphia Invite. Further conjecture suggests an echo of this same sound blast initiated a second rockslide once he passed. Whether these myths ring true, he leaves his opponents in the rubble, persistently moving forward, defending by attacking. He can be the first man on the field or the eighth man on the sideline; know this: you will hear him before you see him. Hailing from lands afar, Taha will lead Crucible 2017, word by word and throw by throw, towards its ultimate goal: Regionals 2017.

#37 NICK BOZICH (cutter)

Legends of old whisper of times long past, where winds whipped through the hills of Pittsburgh and down into the riverbed of the Monongahela and the clouds swirled and darkened. They say the sky opened up with a flash seen as south as Norwin and crack that could be heard in the Northern reaches of Wexford. Where smoke settled stood a figure, gripping 175 grams of freshly molded plastic. The calendar 2016 when he found a tribe to hone his craft. Across many lands, the figure and his tribe struggled against elements and foe alike. As the season past by, he was recognized for his huck at all cost mentality and declared an honorary member of one of the tribe's bloodlines. Now, the year is 2017. Will lightning strike twice? Enter Bozich.

#01 blaine taylor (handler)

Hailing from the land down under, North Carolina, aka the Deep South. This southern boy hardly resembles the typical bumpkin. He breaks assumptions and every mark he encounters. After spending years watching film, mostly anime, he is eager to burn his summer sunlight with a crucible jersey on his back. Teams are better off leaving him unmarked and save face. High, low, inside, around, North, South, it doesn't matter. The only pertinent call is "Blaine." As they say in North Carolina, Giddy Up Crucible 2017.

#04 bridget mccoy (cutter)

Often smiling, but rarely laughing (except in the face of anyone who dares match up against her), Bridget “The Real McCoy” McCoy is the real deal when it comes to cutting. The only thing more apt to make her crack a smile than a NYC bagel is the thrill of burning her defender deep to score sweet, sweet goals. She’s no meateater, but she will chew up and spit out the competition like they’re a pasta salad that she just realized has bacon in it.

This Pittsburgh transplant from NJ/Brooklyn has traveled the world, all the way to exotic Paris, France, and brought back the secrets of endurance from the incredible athletes of the Tour de France. It's the only way to explain how she can sprint for 4 games and not get tired.

When she's not playing ultimate, Bridget enjoys being a secret rock star singer and a generally fun human who cares about the environment.

#05 Caroline nofzinger (handler)

Ultimate player by day, aspiring veterinarian by night. Caroline is working hard to counter any efforts to disassociate our fine sport from it's commonly misunderstood involvement of man's best friend. While this may cause chagrin for some teammates, once she sends out her daily photos of cute dogs ("Guys, looks at this one, it's really adorable!"), it does help smooth things over a little bit. And yes, while she's sometimes distracted by puppy passers-by, as a D-line handler, she's also extremely- omg look at that puppy over there!!

#06 kalene morozumi (cutter)

As Kalene made her comeback into the club Ultimate scene this year after a lengthy hiatus, it quickly became clear that she was a force to be reckoned with. In fact, it was deemed unfair to all other players on the field. In an act of true honor and selflessness, she broke her shoulder in a spring league game to help level the playing field. Unfortunately (for our opponents), since then, she has honed her lefty arsenal of throws, and has shown that the old adage still rings true today: "Don't try guarding Kalene. There's just no point." While it's still unclear just why she left California for somewhere without an ocean, the city of Pittsburgh and Crucible look forward to the rest of the season and all that lays beyond.

#07 cory ruff (cutter)

True to his name, Cory will never take it easy on you. In practice, he's always burning lines in turf as he makes blazing fast cuts to the endzone. Seriously, it's been a little bit of an issue with city permitting... Come tournament time, he'll slice and dice up defenses like a masterful samurai, mercilessly exposing his defender or breaking zone defenses wide open. As part of the famed Crucible Janitorial Staff, he's willing and able to clean up whatever mess has been left for him. If we had to describe Cory Ruff in two words, it would be: Hot dog.

#08 Ron persico (cutter) (Core)

I get knocked down! But I get up again! You never gonna keep me down! Few people know that the song "Tubthumping" by Chumbawamba was actually written about Ron Persico. This is partly because no matter what injury ails him, he'll be back playing in no time, and partly because whether on offense or defense, Ron likes to split his time evenly between running, flying through the air, and slamming into the ground. He is a stalwart pillar of Pgh Crucible's mighty D-line, and you can be sure he'll do his damnedest to make sure the O-line never gets to play. On the occasional point that he is on the sideline, he brings enough energy to fuel an entire tournament of teams. We don't have a cheering section. We have Ron.

#09 katelyn bramkamp (cutter)

Many speculate that KB came out of the womb running, she has yet to stop in her four years on the team as part of the original cast. Don't be fooled, her mark isn't a laugh track sitcom. Think more like a tragic drama where opposing teams turf a stall 9 dump and you hear the roar of the sideline as she patiently and subtly makes her mark as a consistent cutting force. When she isn't taking care of business, she's taking care of the team as elected mom. A former captain, current homeowner, and your future nigtmare if you happen to find yourself with the disc, KB brings renewed club experience, snacks, and early bedtimes to a team unhinged like a runaway train who crave candy and loud noises 📢📢Crucible 2017📢📢

#10 Josh pogue (handler)

Josh Pogue is the All-American Man that every team wishes they had, but only Crucible confidently knows it does. As far as scientists can tell, Pogue is a genetic mix of Labrador Retriever and Bald Eagle which complement his human genetics nicely, because, you know... Thumbs. Rumor has it that as a child, his parents tried to swaddle this patriotic infant in an American flag blanket, but he quickly sacrificed his own warmth and comfort in favor of the standard, triangle flag fold and gave it a hearty salute. Pogue looks forward to contributing his talents to the Crucible family who seek to soar to new heights this year. As Pogue's forefather once did, it's time to cross the Delaware.

#11 lauren franke (cutter) (CORE)

Lauren Franke is our beloved firebrand of Crucible Ultimate. A handler/cutter hybrid, she seamlessly fits into any role needed on the field. As one of the designated Team Mom's, she's not afraid to speak truth to power. And don't even think about messing with any of her Cruciblings or she'll smack you so hard you'll be back playing in the UPA. Off the field, she's always the first to laugh. And then cry. And then laugh again. And then maybe cry a little bit later on. She's just so open with her emotions! Her recently adopted shepherd mix, Bailey, has helped Lauren keep the team corralled- it's a full time job!

#13 melissa zajdel (cutter)

Melissa first turned heads in Pittsburgh when she caught the pull, dished to a handler, and then was instantly open in the far end zone. In the process of turning those heads, she unfortunately gave most players on the field whiplash from moving so fast. Having played Ultimate for less than a year, you may think there would have been a learning curve for Melissa. Wrong. She used her speed to rocket off the curve to establish herself as one of top scorers of Crucible. Melissa doesn't get open. She just is open. It's more a state of being.

#14 Patrick mcmullen (handler)

Patrick Moriarty McMullen. The Irish Blur! This lad'll beat ya to the cone without breaking a sweat. In the time it took you to blink just now, he threw an IO flick from ground-level for a score. You fool. Never blink when you're marking PattyMac. Once off the pitch, he's all smiles and banter. He's always there to make sure the mental state of the team is A-OK. Not sure what that dream you had means? Ask Pat! He probably won't know, he's not a dream analyst. Don't be silly. But he'll make up a terrific story about the dream for you on the spot. That's just the kind of guy he is. With PatMac in your corner, you know it's gonna be a good time!

#15 Rachel diffendal (cutter)

Hailing from the Deep South slopes of a reformed steel city, the mighty Diff began her long journey towards ultimate greatness just after reaching double digits. A decade later, this ferocious warrior sails past her opponents with braid in flight, locked only to land by her dual ankle braces. For despite studying the ancient art of how to fix bodies-that-don't-work so good, her body does not work so good. Knowing her unique skills are needed by many around the globe, Diff shares her ultimate strength with both the cities of Boston and Pittsburgh (#HailToCrucible) but will one day reach her quest of simultaneously playing for every city in the world.

#17 sam munnis (cutter)

At first, we thought Sam was a lost Labrador in the woods, a cross country runner with a friendly demeanor and adorable curiosity. However, we soon learned he was more from the bird famlily after taking flight on both sides of the disc. Hailing from the hills of West Virginia, Sam travels far and wide for the opportunity to excel. Take note, be wary of throwing near this friendly giant, lest the crucible dump slag from the heavens (Sam) and burn all below him. With renewed vigor and health, Sam plans to run and jump his way toward Regionals 2017. Good luck.

#18 amanda erlandson (cutter)

#21 Elliott diamond (handler)

Elliott "the Mountain Man" Diamond forms another valued pillar of our D-line handler core. Like a great man once Ruffly put it, "Shooters gonna shoot," and Elliott is not afraid to step up to the plate and take those shots. Off the field, when not running extra sprint workouts, Elliott likes to track wild goats in the hills of western Pennsylvania, though those two hobbies often coincide with one another. Whenever a mental break is needed, Elliott will pack a couple Clif bars and head out to the trails for a little r&r. He may be off the grid for a few days, but don't worry- he'll be back in time for practice.

#27 steve oldrati (cutter) (core)

Steve Oldrati. Part man. Part really-way-too-big man. You may remember him from such feats as catching that disc floating up that every player on the field had dismissed as uncatchable or that time he laid out at chest height to catch a disc sailing out of bounds. Steve's dive ended up sending him yards out of bounds, but he did it to send a message to the other team. Classic Steve. In his spare time, he enjoys belly rubs, terrifying Rachel with his layout attempts, and curating a masterful collection of craft brews in his cellar. Seriously, it's next-level.

#31 anthony erlandson (cutter)

Once described as the human equivalent of the combination of a puppy, sunshine and gummy bears, Anthony has journeyed far and wide, chasing plastic and making friends; kicking butt and taking names (so he can follow up to make more new friends.) While living in China, he finally found Amanda, the yin to his yang, and their Ultimate exploits happily continued. Through his enthusiasm, positivity, and indomitable cheers, he became a spirit leader in his own right, joining a mystical herd of Sparkleponies, always leaving a path of rainbow destruction in their wake. Anthony now brings his skills and abilities (not least of which being his clever wordplay and pun-ditry) to the Crucible cause. Steel yourself friends, it's going to be a raucous season!

#33 Andrew aJ walsh (handler)

In the words of AJ Walsh, a man is only as strong as the SPF in his sunscreen. Living his life by that important mantra, AJ is without doubt one of the strongest links in the Crucible chain. When he's not working tirelessly to oppose the "great poisonous gas orb," he's smoothly conducting the offense as one of Crucible's talented D-line handler core. His ability to protect every square inch of exposed skin is matched only by his ability to find open receivers downfield. Thanks to his careful avoidance of harmful UVA rays, we know AJ will be a valued part of the Crucible team for years to come.

#35 ana vizcaya hernandez (cutter)

She's been called many names over the course of her international career. La Flash, The Mexican Sensation, and La Quetzal. While Ana's presence on the Ultimate pitch has instilled fear in her opponents from Mexico, to England, to the Netherlands, La Quetzal most recently has come to roost in Pittsburgh, PA. As if injecting a nitrogen speed boost into the team, she's become a powerhouse defender for Crucible, with deadly efficiency on the offensive side of the disc. As she's just getting started on a PhD program (yeah, she kicks ass in just about every way), Crucible is quite happy that her migratory patterns will be put on hold for many years to come.

#42 rachel parlock (cutter) (CORe)

Wild and wonderful, Rachel is anything but par for the course when it comes to locking in on the frisbee field. As a human, she possesses catlike reflexes that perfectly compliment her fervent hunting of the disc without pause. She hails from a clan of many, but she's one of a kind. If you listen closely, you'll hear the punchline and if you listen any closer, you might get mono. Rachel enters Crucible 2017 with an aptitude for agile cuts and the right throws, leaving her opponent left in disbelief.

#56 Julia Hawk Lekht (handler)

Her name is Julia Lekht, but her adoring fans call her Hawk. If this sounds like the name of a superhero, it is. The name of several superhero's actually. Blackhawk. Hawkman. Hawkgirl. But our Hawk doesn't put up with silly things like adjectives. Hawk brings an intensity to defense that you'd expect from someone named for this sort of bird of prey. She then transitions seamlessly to handling once she's inevitably forced a turnover. And just when you think you've got her figured out, she cuts long and somehow finds herself wide open in the endzone. After a long day of kicking butt, she likes to snuggle up on the couch and devour a couple field mice, chipmunks, or baby rabbits she snatched up on her way home. Bon appetit, Hawk.

#73 Svetlana svetty romanova (cutter)

The Russian Gem of Pgh Crucible. Is she really related to Russian royalty? Rumors say so, but regardless, out on the field she is simply majestic. Grace and poise exude from her every move whether she is sending a perfectly touched disc upfield or mercilessly point blocking her mark. It's like a Russian ballerina and a ex-KGB operative had a baby. And then taught her to play Ultimate. But that would be ridiculous. That would never happen... Could it? No... It couldn't...Right?...

#80 jay walker (cutter)

While the legendary Goku was on earth, he had a little known relationship before he was called on to save the world (for the third time). Nine months after one fateful summer in the Big Apple, Jay Walker was born. His father wanted to name him Jay Flyer, but his mother went with a much humbler name, in the hopes of keeping his feet solidly on the ground. Despite his mother’s best intentions, young Jay always knew he was meant for greater things. After years of training at RPI and in Pittsburgh, Jay very nearly became Super Saiyan, twice. Nevertheless, Jay's power has continued to grow, and much like Goku, prefers to spend most of his time, airborne, always to the frustration of the man he is guarding. Also inheriting Goku's voracious appetite, nary a scrap of food has ever been wasted by Crucible, thanks to Jay's hard work. #sustainability

#89 eric petrow (handler) (core)

Did you know that Crucible voted that the Red Panda is the animal that most resembles Eric Petrow? While Red Pandas and Giant Pandas share the same sorts of rainy, forested, high-altitude habitats, did you also know that the Red Panda is not related to the Giant Panda? Did you know that the Red Panda is nocturnal and spends almost the whole day sleeping? Now, did you also know that this is, in fact, nothing like Eric Petrow? To find an animal that properly represented this critical O-line installment, you'd need to look to exceedingly rare and fictional species, such as the Lightning Squirrel or the Tiger Chipmunk. Scientists are still champing at the bit to discover what sort of weaponized biological manipulation led to the creation of this dreaded handler. Players of Crucible will jealously guard the secret, however, vowing to take it with us to the grave.

#02 lindsay zadunayski (cutter)

TBD

#19 Marielle mel lynch (cutter)

TBD

#23 Matt Diesel MCdaniel (cutter)

TBD

#45 david menard (handler)

Young Menard began his frisbee career as many aspiring athletes do: with their parents forcing them to play sports. Despite his odd lanky-flimsy high school stature, young Menard grew into a slightly less lanky and flimsy athlete under the guidance Mr. Rogers in the OG steel city. After completing the Mr. Rogers competitive ultimate camp skills clinic, David now receives ultimate wisdom from the greatest team in the land: Crucible, and their elite leaders, the UPJ f*ckbois. He hopes to bring the art of disc to the very small, but very large, population of Tonga. His spirits are high and ambitions are great, but will he be able to break through the rugby dominated Polynesian culture? Either they will learn to disc, or he will die on the rugby pitch.

#58 scott branagan (handler)

If our team's mascot was a modern-day Norseman, we'd be out a D-line handler. When Scott isn't out at sea viking and striking fear into the hearts of those who see his fearsome beast-headed prow approaching from the horizon, he's happily curating an ever-growing collection of colorful socks. Van Gogh's "Starry Night"? Of course. Edvard Munch's "The Scream"? Naturally. Before too long, you're not sure if you're in The Louvre or Scott's sock drawer. Regardless of what his sock of the day is, he's always going to bring some much-appreciated swagger to the D-line. Will Scott lay down roots in his new Crucible home or will the winds and seas send him onward to new, undiscovered lands? Fate is a fickle mistress.

#59 mike driskell (handler)

TBD

#88 Joseph merante (cutter)

TBD

Maya weis (cutter)

TBD