STEUBENVILLE, OH—While only in their second year of existence, the Franciscan University of Steubenville Ultimate Frisbee team, “Franciscan Fatal,” ended the season undefeated and ranked No. 1 at the USA Ultimate D-III College Championships.

The trophy belonged to Franciscan University at the end of the May 16-17 tournament held in Rockford, Illinois, when Franciscan Fatal defeated Brandeis University 13-9 in the championship game.

Franciscan Fatal also won the Ohio Conference Championship and the Ohio Valley Regional Championship and finished the season 28-0. Individually, senior Tommy Koch and sophomore Dominic Schuster were both ranked to the All-Tournament Seven team.

The championship trophy and entire season were dedicated to the memory of Franciscan University student Neal Rylatt, who died of leukemia in 2012.

Neal was an avid Ultimate Frisbee player who joined an intramural Frisbee team his freshman year. Fittingly, the USA D-III College Championship was held in Neal’s hometown.

The team name pays tribute to Neal’s junior high nickname, “Fat Al,” which became FATAL. The team also honors Neal’s memory by wearing his initials and number (NAR 16) on their jerseys.

“I knew Neal since freshman year, and for me and the other seniors, it was awesome to be able to start this team, play for Neal, and win the championship in his hometown in his memory,” said Jack Nash, who graduated from Franciscan University earlier this month.

Nash is one of the many seniors leaving the team, but Ian Gill, the club’s treasurer, sees much potential in the future.

“We plan to keep a competitive team of 20 guys and form a B-team of younger guys who want to learn how to play better,” Gill said. “We play with heart, we play with talent, but above all, we play with Christ.”

Franciscan Fatal is one of two club sport teams recognized by the Student Life Department at Franciscan University. Fatal is partially funded through Student Government, as well as from private contributions and members paying for out-of-pocket expenses.