The David Martinez era officially gets underway this season as the UT Permian Basin softball team opens the 2026 campaign with a renewed sense of purpose, accountability, and belief. 

After inheriting a program coming off a challenging 9–45 season, Coach Martinez's first priority wasn't just wins and losses—it was culture. Since his arrival, the Falcons have undergone an intentional shift centered on clear standards, daily accountability, and a consistent expectation of excellence. 

"Our athletes understand what it means to compete the right way and to represent UTPB with pride on and off the field. I've seen significant growth in our competitiveness and belief," said Coach Martinez. "The team now expects to compete at a high level within the conference, and that confidence has translated into how we train and how we perform. Overall, the program is moving in a positive direction, and we're laying out the foundation for sustained success." 

That buy-in has shown throughout preseason practices, where Coach Martinez has seen noticeable improvements in consistency, attention to detail, communication, and overall competitiveness. Practices have been sharper, the tempo has increased, and the players now have a clearer understanding of expectations in every situation. 

Last season's adversity also played a critical role in shaping the mindset of this group. Rather than dwelling on the record, the Falcons used the offseason as a reset—one focused on resilience, daily standards, and doing things the right way. 

"A season like that teaches you a lot. Last season taught us the importance of consistency, resilience, and daily standards, and our team took that into the offseason with a renewed commitment to doing things the right way," said Coach Martinez. "Last year's adversity-built resilience and accountability in this group, and they're entering 2026 with a tougher mindset, stronger unity, and a clear commitment to raising the standard every day." 

As the Falcons prepare to open the season, Coach Martinez is excited to see the team's preparation translate into game action. Beyond results, he's looking for effort, energy, and execution—hallmarks of the identity he's working to establish in year one. 

"I'm excited about this group of players. Their buy-in, energy, and willingness to be coached has been impressive, and I'm looking forward to watching them compete, respond to challenges, and continue to grow throughout the season," said Coach Martinez.  "We're establishing an identity built on toughness, discipline, and selfless play. We want to be a team that competes on every pitch, plays the game the right way, and holds each other accountable. More importantly, we want to be known for our effort, resilience, and pride in representing UTPB." 

Opening weekend carries added significance, serving as the first opportunity for the Falcons to set the standard for how the team competes and handles challenges and also and establishes momentum moving forward. 

"Early in the year, our priorities are executing the fundamentals, building consistency, and competing with energy and focus for every inning," said Coach Martinez. "We want to establish our identity, trust each other, and set the tone for the rest of the season." 

While progress won't be measured solely by the scoreboard, Coach Martinez believes success in 2026 will be defined by growth, mental toughness, accountability, the development of a culture that lasts and represents UTPB with pride every day. 

For Falcon fans, the message is clear. 

"Fans can expect a team that competes every inning, plays with energy, and represents UTPB with pride on and off the field" Coach Martinez said. "We're ready to compete, work hard, and make you proud—see you in the stands on Opening Day." 

With a new foundation in place and a clear vision ahead, UTPB softball enters the 2026 season focused on growth, unity, and establishing a standard that will define the program moving forward. 

The Falcons will begin their 2026 season at the South Central Regional Tournament - which starts today (Jan. 30) at 1:30 PM CT and will conclude on Sunday (Feb. 1). The tournament is hosted by Western New Mexico University in Los Lunas, New Mexico.