BUFFALO, NY - After posting an impressive 2025 women's flag football campaign with an 18-10 overall record, the Villa team returns in 2026 with high expectations.

The 2026 season opens on March 19 when Villa hosts Roberts Wesleyan University at 8:15 p.m. at Sahlen Sports Park in Elma. The Vikings then host Post University on March 21 at 10:30 a.m. at D'Youville University to round out the opening week of play.

Key playmakers for this year's team are a combination of returners, transfers and freshmen. Of the latter, the Vikings brought in nine freshmen recruits and expect strong contributions from all of them. 

Key members of that group include utility player Angelina Green and running back Scarlett Melancon.

"We are very excited about this freshmen class. They have really helped make our team more well-rounded at every position," said Villa Maria College flag football head coach Keith Wing, who was named last season's National Collegiate Flag Football League Coach of the Year.

On the offensive side of the ball, key returners are at the quarterback and receiver positions and include Alannah Bushorr, Keiliany Diaz and Brianna Shalinsky.

Shalinsky earned the team's Rookie of the Year last season as a first-year player at quarterback, while Bushorr earned the team's MVP. Bushorr and Diaz received high praise from Wing as the team's primary receivers.

"Diaz and Bushorr really can do it all at the wide receiver position. They are very versatile and run outstanding routes."

On the defensive side of the ball, Wing expects the group to be stout and anchored by linebacker Alyssa Saavedra and cornerbacks Kiera LeBreton and Kiara Mercado.

"We expect great things on defense this season," added Wing.

The 2026 Villa Maria Vikings roster can be found at: https://villavikings.com/sports/womens-flag-football/roster