 |
|
WENDE (COATES) PINZ
Inducted: 2011 - Player
Hometown: San Diego, CA
|
Wende is arguably one of the best throwers in the history of the game. The beauty and consistency of her skills is beyond those of any player in her era, both men and women. Picking apart a zone defense in strong winds was her forte; her throws were strong on both sides and her deep throw was amazing. Wende was one of the most feared offensive players and was always covered by the best defensive players.
A compliment to Wende’s throws was her core athleticism; she could run, dive, catch and jump. She played great defense and had excellent field sense. Wende would typically come up with a couple of key defensive plays per game; she always knew where the disc was and loved to poach. With a strong will and work ethic; Wende was told she is "The Michael Jordan" of Ultimate!
Wende played with fierce intensity but was always a great sportsperson, never a rah rah player. Wende put her spirit, heart and soul into the sport of Ultimate. She loved Ultimate and it showed with her endless commitment to her teammates and community to improve our sport. She treated all her teammates and opponents with respect. Wende showed true spirit of the game.
Wende started her Ultimate career in 1982 and played competitively from 1982-1997. She played in San Diego on the Ultimates, Windjammers, and Safari. Wende also played on combo teams Block Party and the Condors.
Wende played at the highest level of competition at Nationals in 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1992 with Safari. Their best team showing at Nationals was in 1990 with a 2nd place finish against the Maniacs. Wende has also competed at Worlds, Goaltimate tournaments, and Beach ultimate tournaments.
Wende lives in San Diego, California. She is married to Greg Pinz, a long time ultimate player with UCSD Entropy, Spinoffs and Iguanas and has two sons, Kent and Troy.
|