Women's Soccer Looks to Build on Strong Foundation in 2026

The Life Pacific University women's soccer team enters the 2026 season looking to build on the success of last year, returning an experienced group and a culture centered on accountability, sisterhood, and playing for one another.

After a strong 2025 campaign, Head Coach Shane Shelton and the Warriors are focused on continuing to raise the standard both on and off the field.

"After finding success on and off the field last season, our expectation is to build on that foundation rather than be satisfied with it," Shelton said. "We will continue to strengthen our sisterhood, hold each other accountable, and push one another to be the best versions of ourselves. By staying committed to our standards and each other, we believe our best soccer is still ahead of us."

The Warriors return with a seasoned roster led by seniors Calysta Escalera, Jacynda Rueda, Nancy Hinojosa, Mercedes Sibrian, Stevie Spencer, and Akanisi Sorovakarua. Sophomores Emmy Gamble, Kyrah Souza, and Thalia Holyfield also return after gaining valuable experience last season.

Leading the returning group is senior defender Stevie Spencer, who earned First Team All-GSAC honors in 2025 after establishing herself as one of the conference's top defenders.

"Our First Team GSAC Defender Stevie Spencer will look to build on last year's stellar campaign where she proved to be a dominant force in the conference," Shelton said.

One of the biggest lessons the team is carrying into the new season is the importance of playing for one another.

"We learned many lessons last year, but the one that sticks out the most is that when we play for each other and invest in each other, we play our best soccer."

With an experienced roster, strong leadership, and a culture rooted in trust and accountability, the Warriors are ready to build on last season's success as they begin the 2026 campaign. Life Pacific opens the season on Thursday, August 20, traveling to Stanton University for its first match of the year.