A New Era Under Coach Ayinde
University at Albany’s women’s soccer program is gearing up for the 2026 campaign, entering the season with a roster that blends experience and youthful energy. Head coach Sade Ayinde, now in her fifth year at the helm, is focused on translating the team’s modest 2025 showing into a competitive push for postseason play.
The Great Danes will field 16 returning athletes alongside eight newcomers, a mix that includes two of the program’s most prolific goal‑scorers from last season, Flo Bartholomai and Tamia Nelson. Both players are expected to anchor the attack as the team looks to increase its goal production.
Between the lines, senior goalkeeper Claudia Volino brings a national ranking in save percentage and total saves, having placed 21st in the country for save percentage and 23rd for total saves in 2025. Her presence between the posts adds stability to a defensive unit that finished the previous season with a 2‑13‑2 record.
Streaming and Fan Engagement
The incoming class features four transfers — Alexa Fritz from Linfield University, Kiara Levac of Indian Hills Community College, Maddie Eddy from Merrimack, and Liyah Menilek who previously played at St. Bonaventure and Missouri State. Freshmen Oluchi Njoku, Ava Phillips, Lila Algarin and Julianna Ortega also join the squad, bringing talent from high schools and clubs across the United States and the Dominican Republic.
The schedule opens with a home matchup against Boston University on August 16, a game that will be streamed live on ESPN+. Following that, the team will travel to face Quinnipiac, Stonehill, Le Moyne and Stony Brook before America East competition begins in September.
UAlbany entered the America East preseason poll with nine votes, positioning them behind traditional contenders such as Maine, Binghamton and the University of Massachusetts Lowell. Despite the modest vote total, the coaching staff remains optimistic that the depth of talent will translate into a stronger conference record.
All home games will be available via ESPN+ at plus.espn.com, giving fans across the region a chance to follow the team’s progress. The 2026 America East Women’s Soccer Championships are slated to start on November 5, with the final scheduled for November 14 or 15, offering the Great Danes a potential pathway to the postseason.