PITTSBURGH, PA — The wait is almost over. On Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 9:30 PM to 12:30 AM, the Pittsburgh Thunderbirds are opening the doors for their 11th annual open tryout, presented by Two Frays Brewery. This is the public's chance to prove they belong on the field as a Professional Ultimate Frisbee player.
Since 2015, more than 200 athletes have worn the Thunderbirds’ gold and charcoal gray, representing cities from all over the world. Every year, the tryout brings out hungry competitors chasing the same dream: to play Ultimate at the professional level in front of the home crowd at Highmark Stadium.
This year’s tryout will once again take place at Southpointe Fieldhouse in Canonsburg. It’s open to everyone; all skill levels, backgrounds, and experiences welcome. If you’ve got the drive, the attitude, and the fire to compete, you’ve got a shot. Top performers will be invited back for a second-round tryout by General Manager Andrew Gardner. With each registration, participants will receive a black and white reversible pinnie, thanks to Two Frays Brewery.
“The tryout process lets us find the best athletes from across the country, not just Western PA,” said Gardner. “We’re looking for speed, agility, Ultimate IQ, and most importantly, attitude.”
In 2025, more than 100 athletes stepped onto the field looking to earn their wings.
To help athletes prepare for the tryout and the upcoming ultimate Frisbee season, the Thunderbirds have partnered up with Better Build Physical Therapy to create The Hatchery; free sessions that will help elevate athletes skills to the next level. Each week, athletes will meet at the Schenley Oval to train, compete, and push each other, laying the groundwork for the 2026 UFA and Club seasons.
To register and learn more about this pre-tryout program, visit pghthunderbirds.com/thehatchery
Registration for the open tryout is available now at pghthunderbirds.com or directly through the Open Tryout Registration Page. The cost is $65, but that jumps to $80 starting January 1, 2026, so don’t wait.
Questions? Reach out to General Manager Andrew Gardner at agardner@pghthunderbirds.com.
