Looking ahead to 2026...
Houston Heat had a rough season in 2025, making it to the podium only once. And by now you’ ve probably heard that Randy“ Sarge” Smith and Momma D have transferred ownership of Houston Heat to Alan Bufton and are transitioning out of paintball. Bufton previously lead NRG Elite. Heat has recently announced several roster moves including, picking up Cody Mickowski, Luis Betancourt, Auston Bufton and Bob Velez. They’ ve also picked up Chris Jansen to coach the squad for 2026.
It was rough sledding for San Diego Dynasty as well in 2025, with a one-off podium appearance and an unheard of( for them) two 15th place finishes. Changes are coming for Dynasty, starting with picking up Stephen Omera, Mikey Urena, Elliot Weaver and Archie Barnes. Dynasty has also parted ways with Dany Schonauer, now with Los Angeles Infamous, and coach Mike Bianca.
Other moves: Edmonton Impact has picked up Conner Kelley; the Hurricanes nabbed the legend known as Konstantin Fedorov; Francis Antetomaso leaves the Ironmen for Collision; Benjamin Heningburg and Clint Johnson have retired from ac: Diesel. Leverage picked up Patrick Sanelli to coach the upcoming season. Corey Hall heads to Russian Legion and Cody Chong goes to Royal City Sea Dogs along with Dave Chong as coach.
Chicago Aftershock has made a ton of moves, picking up Jet Isidro, Max Stangel, Michael Rohas, and Max Rooney. Marky Frans and Madison Hinds. Apparently if you play paintball and your first name starts with an“ M”‘ Shock wants you.
The Jungle Cats acquire a pro spot. he Jungle Cats, formerly BR Factory, dominated the Semipro series in 2025, and despite coming up short at‘ Cup, won their pro spot for next season. They will be joined by some of their counterparts, as it turns out. LA Collision purchased their spot from the departing TonTons FSU, and Wyldside Dystortion bought ac: Diesel’ s slot.
The NXL Europe welcomes Ballern Factory Team to the Pros. Carnage made two great moves picking up Brice Gaudoin and Alexandre Pizon.
Photo by Weronika Wrona Krzemińska- Połeć
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