Cree Howard

It is not often that an individual becomes synonymous with an entire team, but Cree Howard was the lifeblood of Fury for an incredible 17-year stretch. Her athleticism, ultimate IQ, persistence, and versatility were central to Fury’s 9 championships between 2008 and 2024. Cree excelled as a cutter who was equally comfortable breaking down a defender to initiate the offense, striking deep with perfect timing, continuing the flow with skillful throws, or creating space for her teammates to shine. Plus, her defensive fundamentals were second to none. A deep commitment to improving meant that Cree was a top performer her entire tenure on Fury. Throughout, Cree was also the team’s culture carrier–a critical figure in establishing and maintaining the joy, resilience, and competitive excellence upon which Fury built its program. 

Cree joined Fury with only three seasons of ultimate under her belt, having been introduced to the sport at UC Berkeley. Affectionately called “Puppy,” her speed and natural feel for the game allowed her to instantly make an impact for Fury that season, winning WUGC and Nationals in 2008. While still in college, she was selected as an alternate for the 2009 World Games team, going on to make the gold-medal roster outright the next cycle. She earned spots on three other Team USA rosters: for WBUC in 2015 and 2017 and for WUGC in 2016. While she was not able to compete at WUGC in 2016 due to an ACL tear, she accompanied the team to the tournament and supported the squad with her signature joy and care. Between WUCC, WUGC, World Games, WBUC, and WMUC, Cree competed at 9 Worlds, bringing home 5 golds and 3 silver medals. Her all-around talent and versatility guaranteed that if a team found itself facing double-game point, Cree was on the line. Indeed, at 2010 WUCC she caught the gold medal goal in just such a scenario.

Cree was a finalist for the Callahan award in 2010 and selected for UltiWorld’s All-Club 2nd Team in 2015, but the accolades that her own team bestowed upon her are perhaps truer gauges of her impact. Fury nominated Cree for the Kathy Pufahl Award multiple years, in part for all the behind-the-scenes ways that she led by example, inspired her teammates, and was the “queen of the little things.” She is routinely named as players’ all-time favorite teammate. In recognition of Cree’s legacy and contributions on and off-the-field, Fury retired #13 in her honor alongside the jerseys of fellow Hall of Famers Nicole “Sprout” Beck, Jody Dozono, and Alex Snyder. A fitting honor for Cree’s legendary career.

Cree lives with her husband and growing family in Oakland, where she continues to coach JV middle school ultimate.