A fresh start for UNLV women's soccer
The UNLV women's soccer team will open its 2026 campaign at home on Sunday, facing Portland State at 11 a.m. on the familiar grass of Peter Johann Memorial Field.
First‑year head coach Kacey Bingham, who took the reins this offseason, inherits a squad that returns nine contributors from the 2025 roster while welcoming 20 newcomers, among them 11 transfers.
Among the returning veterans are sophomore midfielder Ana De Los Santos, junior forward/defender Felicity Garcia, and redshirt sophomore defender Madison Encinas, while senior defender Elizabeth Bautista provides experience at the back. Adding to the mix are junior forward Sierah McCallum and sophomore forward Julia Salem, both expected to see increased roles.
The team was slated to finish seventh in the Mountain West Conference preseason poll, a position that sets a modest but realistic target as the program adjusts to Bingham’s system.
Fans can expect a competitive debut, with the coaching staff emphasizing tactical discipline and depth as the Rebels look to build momentum early in the season.
Key Players to Watch
Ana De Los Santos will anchor the midfield, while Sierah McCallum brings pace up front. Madison Encinas anchors the defensive line, and Elizabeth Bautista’s leadership will be vital in the back. Julia Salem adds depth in attack, and Felicity Garcia’s versatility could prove decisive in tight contests.