The Texas A&M University-San Antonio softball team delivered one of the program’s most successful seasons in 2026, combining offensive consistency, defensive toughness, and on-the-field grit.
A&M-San Antonio finished the season with a 26-18 overall record and a 17-10 mark in Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC) play, securing another conference tournament appearance and building on the program’s recent success under head coach Nicole Dame.
The Jaguars established themselves as one of the conference’s most consistent offensive teams throughout the season, combining speed, timely hitting, and depth across the lineup to fuel their success. The team also found success away from home, turning in a strong on-the-road record during conference play.
Dame said the team’s chemistry played a major role in the Jaguars’ success throughout the season.
“The chemistry on this roster was unmatched,” Dame said. “This group created a family environment where everyone felt valued and connected. Whether it was practice, travel days, or high-pressure games, they brought energy, accountability, and support to one another, and that closeness showed on the field.”
University Athletics Director Dr. Darnell Smith said the team’s selfless mentality separated this year’s group from previous seasons.
“What really made this group different was how all in everyone was from the start,” Smith said. “There was a real sense that nobody was playing for themselves. It was all about the team and the program. The way they handled challenges, stayed together, and competed really set them apart.”
Smith added that the team’s bond became one of the defining characteristics of the season.
“Honestly, it looked like a true family,” he said. “The players liked being around each other, and that showed in how they played. They celebrated each other’s successes, held each other up when things got tough, and genuinely enjoyed the journey together.”
Players from across the roster contributed to the team’s success. Junior Kaylee Barlow led the Jaguars with a standout season at the plate and on the basepaths, while senior Samara Aguilera continued to be one of the team’s most reliable offensive leaders. Sophomore Kristianna Luera provided consistency throughout the year, and sophomore Krisilyn Corral emerged as another key contributor with several impactful performances during conference and postseason play.
The Jaguars’ offensive depth translated into multiple signature performances throughout the season, including a 25-0 victory over Texas College and a postseason run in the RRAC Tournament, where A&M-San Antonio battled through a competitive field of nationally ranked opponents and conference contenders. The Jaguars earned wins over Texas A&M University-Victoria and Louisiana Christian University, including a 7-6 victory against Louisiana Christian, before concluding their postseason run in a pair of narrow losses.
The team’s success was also reflected in the conference awards announced at the end of the season. Aguilera and Barlow earned First Team All-Conference honors, while Corral was named Second Team All-Conference. Luera and junior Sari Travis received Honorable Mention recognition.
Beyond statistics and awards, the Jaguars continued to emphasize leadership and character throughout the season. Senior Tori Campos was selected as the program’s 2026 Champion of Character recipient, recognizing student-athletes who exemplify integrity, leadership and sportsmanship on and off the field.
The season also marked a major milestone for Dame, who earned her 200th career victory as a head coach during the Jaguars’ win over Texas College on April 26. Dame, who has overseen the program’s growth since its inaugural season, has guided the Jaguars to consistent conference tournament appearances and an NAIA Tournament appearance in 2023.
As the program continues to build momentum, the 2026 season reinforced the Jaguars’ growth as one of the conference’s top softball programs. Through strong team chemistry, stellar offense and defense, A&M-San Antonio once again demonstrated its ability to compete at a high level while continuing to elevate the university’s athletic presence.