A Familiar Face Returns to the Bay Area
The University of San Francisco announced this week that Alexis Mata will serve as the interim head coach of the women's soccer team for the upcoming 2026 campaign, stepping into the role after two seasons as an assistant under Pinder Nijjar.
Mata, a former Big West Goalkeeper of the Year and two‑time All‑Big West honoree, brings a playing résumé that includes stints in Spain’s Segunda RFEF with Levante Las Planas and a strong developmental background that culminated in a United States Soccer National C License.
A Coaching Journey Defined by Experience
Her coaching trajectory began with a volunteer stint at the University of Oregon in 2023 before she returned to her alma mater, where she has already helped the Dons secure five All‑West Coast Conference recognitions and a 2‑0 shutout victory over No. 18 Texas Tech in August 2025.
Beyond the tactical side of the game, Mata has overseen academic progress that kept the squad’s cumulative GPA above 3.7, underscoring a culture that blends athletic competitiveness with scholarly achievement.
Academic Excellence Meets Athletic Ambition
The program’s strong classroom performance, highlighted by a 3.74 cumulative GPA in 2024 and a 3.67 GPA in 2025, reflects Mata’s commitment to developing well‑rounded student‑athletes.
Freshman goalkeeper Tyra Bengtsson‑Stenseth, who finished fourth in the WCC with 69 saves and five shutouts last season, is among the players expected to thrive under Mata’s guidance as the team looks to build on recent successes.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With a blend of veteran leadership, a proven track record in the classroom, and a playing pedigree that includes professional experience in Spain, Mata enters the interim role poised to shape a promising future for USF women's soccer as the 2026 season unfolds.