Malaspina and Martinez Transferred to California Programs
Soccer athletes Alexa Malaspina and Sammy Martinez returned to their home state to compete for Division I universities.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Soccer
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Alexa Malaspina and Sammy Martinez have transitioned to California-based Division I soccer programs, marking a return to their home state. Malaspina joined Sacramento State, while Martinez has taken a relief role at San Diego State.
Why it matters
The transfers allow both athletes to compete closer to their families while seeking more prominent roles and development opportunities at the Division I level. Each player prioritized returning to California to leverage personal comfort and professional growth within the state.
Alexa Malaspina has recorded 20 saves across three starts, while Sammy Martinez has preserved two shutouts and made two saves in 27 minutes of play. Martinez previously posted a 79.2 percent shot stop rate at Hartnell College.
The players
Alexa Malaspina
She is a soccer goalkeeper now playing for Sacramento State who previously competed at the University of Utah and the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs.
Sammy Martinez
She is a soccer player currently competing in a relief role for San Diego State following previous stints at Hartnell College and Oregon State.
The details
Malaspina, who previously played for the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs and the University of Utah, has utilized strong communication to organize the defensive line at Sacramento State. Martinez, a former Oregon State and Hartnell College player, currently competes in a relief role and plans to pursue a starting position next season.
Timeline
August 27, 2026: Malaspina earned her first Division I victory.
September 3, 2026: Malaspina earned a win over Fresno State.
October 8, 2026: Current status of both athletes confirmed.
Season Trajectory
These transfers reflect the broader movement of players within the NCAA system seeking specific cultural or competitive fits. Both athletes are now positioned to influence their respective programs as they navigate the current competitive soccer landscape.
Malaspina has secured a consistent starting role with two recent wins, providing stability to the Sacramento State defense. Martinez remains a depth piece in the San Diego State rotation, with her future impact contingent on her ability to compete for the starting job next season.
The takeaway
The return of these student-athletes to California highlights the importance of proximity to support systems in collegiate sports success. Their transition underscores how players balance personal well-being with their professional goals when choosing their long-term institutional homes.
Further reading
For more on collegiate athletic developments, visit the soccer section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Sacramento Bee.
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