SPORTS: Dustdevils women build chemistry, chase stronger season
By Joseline Castanon
Bridge contributing writer
Published Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026
After an offseason focused on recovery, conditioning and team bonding, the Texas A&M International University women’s soccer team prepared for a stronger Fall 2026 season.
The Dustdevils entered the season with a mix of returning experience and new talent, aiming to improve on last year’s performance and make a push for the Lone Star Conference Tournament.
TAMIU forward Tatiana Perez Lluis drives the ball while UT-Tyler’s Marin Love tries to steal the ball at the Dustdevils Soccer Field on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026.
Coach Jovany Macias said building team chemistry has been his biggest focus as the season began.
“My main priorities are to create a bond with every student-athlete and have great team chemistry,” Macias said.
The team returns nine or 10 players from last season, while adding six or seven new players expected to make an immediate impact.
Macias said the roster’s depth and experience could become one of the team’s biggest strengths.
“A lot of girls coming in are from good soccer clubs, with good experience playing at high levels,” Macias said. “We’re definitely going to be very strong.”
For midfielder Maya Tate, the season represents more than preparation—it represents a return.
Tate transferred to TAMIU after playing at another program closer to home in Alabama, but her road back to the field has been difficult.
“I tore my ACL twice, back to back,” Tate said. “Recently, I got a really bad concussion, and I was in the hospital.”
Despite those setbacks, Tate said she has focused on regaining confidence and getting back to her best form.
“I think it’s just getting back to where I feel like myself,” Tate said.
Tate said the team’s welcoming culture has made the transition easier and strengthened her confidence on and off the field.
“The girls really put their foot forward when it comes to being welcoming,” Tate said. “That’s the best thing this team has.”
While chemistry remains a priority, Macias said the team’s biggest area for improvement is offensive production.
“We need to score more,” Macias said.
Tate said the team’s goal is simple: improve, compete and earn a spot in the Lone Star Conference Tournament.
“I hope when people watch us play, they can see how hard we work and how hard we want it,” Tate said.
With regular season training intensifying, games underway and expectations rising, the Dustdevils hope their preparation will turn into results as the season progresses.
