February 6, 2026
Puerto Vallarta, MX — UTSA softball’s early 2026 season features a special trip south of the border, and exactly where head coach Vann Stuedeman wants her program to be — tested, challenged and immersed in one of college softball’s premier early-season events at the 2026 Puerto Vallarta College Challenge hosted by Triple Crown Sports.
For Stuedeman, the international tournament is both a competitive opportunity and a meaningful experience for her roster. Having previously coached teams in the event, she has long envisioned bringing her UTSA squad to Puerto Vallarta for the first time under her leadership.
“I have taken two teams at a previous school and it’s just so well ran,” Stuedeman said of the event. “Dave King and his staff do such a great job. I have always wanted to return with this group.”
Beyond the games, the trip offers Roadrunner student-athletes a rare cultural experience early in their collegiate careers.
“Puerto Vallarta College Challenge isa unique cultural experience with the benefits of the student-athlete going out of the country, getting a passport, different currency, just the whole experience,” Stuedeman said.
“Some of the student-athletes have never been out of the country. We are looking forward to the Mexican culture and genuineness of the environment, and then also to play some good softball and be around some great folks and Triple Crown Sports’ crew.”
The Mexico trip also serves as an early barometer for a UTSA team Stuedeman believes is primed for a step forward in 2026.
“We are looking for a jump type season; we have the most talent that we’ve had since I’ve been here,” she said.“We are the deepest since I’ve been here.”
That depth brings expectations, particularly when it comes to competitiveness.
“Our biggest hurdle will be how tough are we? How competitive are we?” Stuedeman said.
“I think that’ll be the difference maker — who can perform under pressure.”
Several Roadrunners have softball fans looking forward to their trip to Puerto Vallarta, starting with sophomore infielder Sabrina Wick.
“Sabrina Wick is a four-and-a-half tool player, but she’s really fast,” Stuedeman said.
“She’s our toughest to get out with two strikes.”Freshman Arlette Hernandez could also make an immediate impact on both sides of the ball.
“She might be our best two-way player,” Stuedeman said. “She has a really good rise ball, and as a freshman, we will get to see where she is at.”
UTSA will also feature key newcomers, including Samantha Mundine, a transfer from McNeese State.
“She is an over .300 career hitter in the Southland (Conference),” Stuedeman said. “We’ll see how that translates to the American Conference.”
The Roadrunners will face stiff competition in Mexico, including Southern Illinois and Eastern Kentucky, programs coming off strong season and consistent postseason experience.
“They’re both coming off of great seasons,” Stuedeman said. “They have experienced the pressure and have performed under it more than once.”
For UTSA, the matchup offers clarity as much as competition.
“We aren’t in their RPI category or experience level yet — we’re unproven,” Stuedeman said. “Hopefully we can learn a little bit about ourselves and see how gutsy we’re going to be and how tough we’re going to be against these teams. We are excited about that challenge.”
As the Roadrunners open the 2026 campaign on an international stage, Puerto Vallarta provides the perfect proving ground — blending elite competition, team growth and a chance to define who UTSA softball is becoming.