Silver City, N.M. - Western New Mexico University Softball proudly welcomes its newest group of Mustangs as part of the 2026 recruiting class on National Signing Day. The eight signees bring an exciting mix of athleticism, versatility, and leadership — along with a shared commitment to excellence both on the field and in the classroom.
"We are excited to announce our new class of Mustangs. These student athletes have a fierce competitor's mindset that will help continue to bring a winning edge to our program. It has been fun to watch them grow and play top competition, which prepares them for WNMU and the LSC. Congratulations to each one and their families" said Head Coach Hickman.
Local and Bayard, NM, standout Angel Saiz, a pitcher and middle infielder, represents Cobre High School and The Wicked Select club. Planning to major in Biology, Saiz said that Western New Mexico offered her "a strong career path while allowing me to remain close to home." She was drawn to the program's family-oriented atmosphere and looks forward to contributing both in the circle and at the plate. One of her favorite pastimes is fishing — a hobby that reflects her patient, focused approach to the game.
From Mountain View High School, Keelie Goodman joins the Mustangs as a standout shortstop with the Storm-Walding club team. Goodman, native of Mesa, AZ, plans to major in Kinesiology and said she chose WNMU because it was everything she was looking for — a smaller, close-knit community and a program that felt like family. Off the field, Goodman enjoys doing nails, a creative outlet that matches her precision and patience at shortstop.
Amaya Serrano, from Buena High School, is a versatile catcher and second baseman who played for Tennessee Mojo Ramsey/Corey. The native of Sierra Vista, AZ, plans to major in Criminal Justice and shared that she chose WNMU because it "feels like home and challenges me to be my best." Serrano is passionate about mentoring young athletes, something she looks forward to continuing in Silver City.
Hailing from Sahuarita, AZ, and playing for Sahuarita High School and Arizona Rising Vela, Eliana Romero adds speed and adaptability to the Mustang lineup in the middle infield and outfield. Majoring in Criminal Justice, she said she wanted to stay close to family while playing at a high level. "I wanted to be part of a team that feels like family," Romero said. Fun fact — she has an extra bone in her foot!
Kennedy Trillo comes from Phoenix, AZ, playing for Scottsdale Christian Academy and competes for AZ Storm-Walding. A powerful hitter and steady presence on first base and the outfield, she plans to major in Kinesiology. "The coaches made me feel valued right away," Trillo said. Trillo's story is especially inspiring — she is deaf and competes with two cochlear implants, showing remarkable resilience and passion for the game.
Pitcher Hayden Bores joins WNMU from Marana, AZ, and Ironwood Ridge High School, where she competed with AZ Cats Luna. She plans to major in Education and said she "fell in love with the campus, the town, and the coaches." Known for her flexibility — literally, as she's triple-jointed in her elbows and double-jointed in her shoulders — Bores brings both humor and competitiveness to the Mustang pitching staff.
From Litchfield Park, AZ, and playing for Canyon View High School, Brooke Downs is a true utility player who has honed her skills with Arizona Rising Westover. Majoring in Criminal Justice, Downs said she chose WNMU because of the coaching staff and the positive team culture. "When I visited, all of the girls seemed so close and always having a good time," she shared. She also appreciated the school's small class sizes and its proximity to home. Off the field, Downs loves taking naps — the perfect way to recharge after long days on the diamond.
Olivia Vance comes from Casa Grande Union High School and plays for AZ Cats Luna as a catcher. The Casa Grande native will major in Marketing. Vance said she fell in love with the program after attending a WNMU camp stating "I felt welcomed by the coaches and players right away. The supportive and fun environment made me excited to be part of the community." When she's not catching, Vance loves spending time with friends and family — especially over a good meal.
With players spanning multiple positions and backgrounds, this recruiting class reflects WNMU Softball's core values — teamwork, growth, and community. Each athlete brings unique strengths that will continue to build the program's foundation of excellence.
Welcome to the Mustang Family, Class of 2026!
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Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).
