The GSAC has announced the 2026 Flag Football All-Conference Team and individual award winners, presented by Under Armour. Highlighting the conference’s inaugural season, the honors reflect a year defined by emerging talent, competitive balance, and the rise of new programs. Hope International University captured the inaugural GSAC championship, finishing a perfect 10-0 in conference play and 13-2 overall, and placed multiple student-athletes among the conference’s top honorees.

This year’s major award winners include Madison Powell of Hope International as Player of the Year, Grace Galdamez of La Sierra University as both Offensive Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year, Taylor Zalunardo of Simpson University as Defensive Player of the Year, and Felipe Aguilar of Hope International as Coach of the Year.

Powell of Hope International was named GSAC Player of the Year after a dominant two-way season. The freshman wide receiver/defensive back totaled 57 receptions for 639 yards and 13 touchdowns offensively, while adding 48 total tackles, eight tackles for loss, and two interceptions on defense. Powell’s consistent impact on both sides of the ball made her one of the most dynamic players in the conference throughout the season.

Galdamez of La Sierra earned both Offensive Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year honors following a versatile campaign. Galdamez led her team with 51 receptions for 566 yards and seven touchdowns, while also contributing as a passer and rusher. Her ability to impact the game in multiple phases, combined with steady production across 12 games, established her as one of the conference’s most complete offensive threats.

Zalunardo of Simpson was named Defensive Player of the Year after anchoring one of the conference’s top defensive units. The freshman linebacker recorded 91 total tackles (9.1 per game), along with four sacks, eight tackles for loss, and two interceptions. Zalunardo’s presence and consistency set the tone defensively and positioned her among the conference leaders in multiple statistical categories.

Aguilar of Hope International was selected as GSAC Coach of the Year after guiding his program to the conference’s first championship. Under Aguilar’s leadership, the Royals compiled a 13-2 overall record and closed the regular season on a 12-game winning streak. His ability to build cohesion in a new conference landscape and maximize a young roster played a key role in Hope International’s success.

The 2026 GSAC All-Conference Team highlights the conference’s balance across the competing institutions, with five programs represented by key contributors on both sides of the ball. Hope International led the way behind its championship season, while La Sierra and Simpson placed multiple impactful performers following strong campaigns. Arizona Christian and Benedictine Mesa also earned recognition for their offensive and defensive playmakers, underscoring the competitive depth present throughout the league in its first year.

Notably, the team is heavily composed of underclassmen, reflecting the youth and long-term potential of GSAC flag football. With standout performances across all phases—offense, defense, and special teams—the inaugural All-Conference group sets a strong foundation as the sport continues to grow within the conference.