PITTSBURGH, PA (January 6, 2026) — The Pittsburgh Thunderbirds will enter the 2026 Ultimate Frisbee Association season with a revamped coaching staff, led by a new head coach and a strong mix of returning and first-time coaches.
David Berg has been named Head Coach for the 2026 season after serving as an assistant under Max Barowski in 2025. This will be Berg’s second season with the Thunderbirds organization. In addition to his role with Pittsburgh, Berg will also coach Pittsburgh Temper in the men’s club division and continues to coach at the college level with the University of Pittsburgh, "En Sabah Nur". As a player, Berg previously competed professionally with the DC Breeze in 2015, throwing 27 assists, scoring 15 goals, and recording 5 blocks.
Marcel Oliart transitions into a coaching role for the 2026 season. Oliart suffered a partially torn ACL and cartilage damage last year, injuries that were successfully repaired by Allegheny Health Network surgeons. While his recovery timeline will not allow him to play this season, Oliart has committed fully to contributing from the sideline.
“The loyalty I feel to my teammates and this city is growing every day,” said Oliart. “I want this city to earn its respect, and I want to do it with my brothers by my side.”
Scott “Coop” Olinger returns for his second season as a coach with the Thunderbirds. Olinger previously worked under Barowski and alongside Berg in 2025 and has past experience coaching the Pittsburgh Stealers in the men’s club division. The 2026 season will mark his seventh year coaching and his second coaching professionally in the UFA. After moving back to Pittsburgh in 2012, Olinger began playing with Dire Wolf, an experience that helped shape his approach to team culture and leadership.
Shani Rosenthal joins the Thunderbirds coaching staff as a first-year coach. Rosenthal has been instrumental in the success of The Hatchery, a seven-week collaborative training environment designed for motivated athletes across Pittsburgh’s ultimate community. She is also the owner of Better Build Physical Therapy LLC, bringing a strong background in physical therapy, strength training, and athlete development. Rosenthal will help guide the Thunderbirds’ strength, conditioning, and skill development both on and off the field. As a player, she previously competed professionally with the Indianapolis Red of the Premier Ultimate League.
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