Photo Credit: Nicole Noel Photography
2025 SAN DIEGO REBELLION SEASON PREVIEW
After a dominant 7-1 campaign in 2024 that ended in another conference final loss to the Texas Elite Spartans, the San Diego Rebellion enter 2025 with a revamped roster, renewed determination, and an unwavering focus on capturing their first WNFC IX Cup championship. Here's what to expect as the Rebellion gear up for redemption:
Overcoming Adversity on Offense
The Rebellion may face a significant challenge with standout running back Melina Malaxos sidelined for the season due to an ACL injury. Malaxos was instrumental in 2024, rushing for 488 yards and scoring four touchdowns, but San Diego's depth offers hope to fill the void. Dual-threat quarterback Danny Trainor returns for her second season after accounting for 12 touchdowns (5 rushing, 7 passing) last year. She'll be supported by a backfield committee featuring efficient backup Kesz Wesley (7.0 yards per carry in 2024) and Regena Escato, a dynamic playmaker from Team Mexico.
The receiving corps gains a major boost with the return of Sakura Roberson, a former SDSU track star who missed 2024 after a standout rookie season. Her speed and versatility add a new dimension to the offense, while veteran wideout Nisha Taylor provides two-way value, having notched three receiving touchdowns and three interceptions as a cornerback. The Rebellion also added receiver Jamie Blue, who earned WNFC All-Pro Game MVP honors as a rookie with the Las Vegas Silver Stars in 2022. Up front, the line remains a fortress, anchored by All-WNFC center Tanya Luna and 2024 Trench Player of the Year Johanna Aspenberg.
Defensive Dominance
San Diego's defense, a cornerstone of their success, returns its core playmakers. Linebacker Knengi Martin, entering her seventh season with the Rebellion and 24th overall, remains the heart of the unit. Partnering with her is reigning Defensive Player of the Year Katie Claxton, whose 38 tackles and four forced fumbles in 2024 set the tone for a relentless group. They also return linebackers Sabrina Kessler, who was named the team's Defensive MVP following a breakout 2024 season, Rebellions' all-time leading tackler Elisa Nguyen, and veteran leader Kim Cade-Henry. The secondary features Merci Scott and Jazzmon Stovall, two former running backs who seamlessly transitioned to standout defensive roles, showcasing their versatility and athletic ability.
X-Factors and Outlook
Versatility defines this roster. Nisha Taylor's dual-threat ability and Sakura Roberson's explosiveness keep opponents guessing, while the offensive line's dominance ensures balance. Defensively, the combination of Martin's leadership and Claxton's knack for game-changing plays creates a formidable challenge for any opponent.
The 2025 season will test the Rebellion's resilience, but adversity is nothing new for this squad. With a blend of veteran leadership, emerging talent, and strategic depth, San Diego is primed to turn last year's heartbreak into fuel for a run to the IX Cup Championship on June 20-22 at The Star in Frisco, Texas (Dallas Cowboys HQ). The road won't be easy, but the Rebellion are ready to battle—and their quest for the title promises to be electrifying.
The season opens this Saturday, March 29 when the Rebellion renew their competitive rivalry with the Utah Falconz in Wilson Stadium at Escondido High School. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. PT.
For more information visit www.sandiegorebellion.com.
2025 Schedule:
March 29 vs. Utah Falconz
April 12 at Seattle Majestics
April 19 vs. Los Angeles Legends
April 26 at Las Vegas Silver Stars
May 10 vs. Oregon Ravens
May 17 at Denver Bandits
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