A Rising Star in College Soccer
Kameron Kloza, a graduate student defender at the University of Texas at San Antonio, has been named to the NCAA Division I Women’s Players to Watch list for the upcoming 2026 season. The honor follows a breakout year in which she anchored a back line that posted a goals‑against average of just 0.87 over the past two campaigns.
Her selection marks the second time a UTSA player has appeared on a United Soccer Coaches preseason watch list, following goalkeeper Jasmine Kessler, and underscores the program’s growing influence on the national stage.
Defensive Mastery and Recognition
Kloza transferred to UTSA from Texas Tech before the 2024 campaign and quickly became the first Roadrunner since 2022 to earn United Soccer Coaches All‑South Region First Team honors. In 22 appearances she started 17 games, logging 1,768 minutes while maintaining a .381 shots‑on‑goal percentage and contributing two assists.
The defining moment of her season came on October 9, when she struck the game‑winning goal against South Florida, delivering UTSA’s first victory over the Bulls. The Roadrunners will test their mettle again on August 5 when they face Texas in an exhibition at Park West, before opening the regular season on August 12 against the same opponent at the Park West Athletics Complex.
Looking Ahead
Under the guidance of head coach Derek Pittman, who has led the team to nine seasons and a conference tournament championship, the squad aims to build on its American Conference ranking of second in goals‑against average. Kloza’s leadership on the back line is expected to be a cornerstone of that ambition.
Fans and analysts alike are watching closely as the 2026 Roadrunners blend veteran poise with fresh talent, hoping to translate early successes into a deep run in the NCAA tournament. Kloza’s blend of experience, defensive acumen, and clutch performances positions her as a key figure in that narrative.