The Rivalry Reignites: St. Louis Welcomes DC to the Dome
by Ethan Berch
ARLINGTON, TX – March 25, 2026 – The fierce rivalry is back. The UFL’s most intense, passionate, and electrifying contest returns to kick off the new season. Following DC’s stunning playoff upset that knocked St. Louis out of contention last year, expect emotions to run high in The Battledome.
Key Narratives to Observe:
Not only did DC achieve a shocking semifinal victory, but they continued their improbable run to win the championship, securing their first-ever spring football title.
Last year, the Defenders captivated everyone with their underdog journey. Interim head coach Shannon Harris took the reins just one week before the season began and masterfully guided DC to a championship, defying expectations repeatedly.
This season, however, the stakes are different. Harris himself acknowledged to the press, “we now have a target on our back.” The Defenders must transition from a no-pressure mindset to one of high anticipation, hoping to avoid any post-championship slump.
Conversely, St. Louis has made deep playoff runs in both of the past two seasons but has yet to reach the ultimate title game. Now, Ricky Proehl steps in, inheriting a clear standard of excellence already established in The Lou.
Proehl, a former 17-year NFL veteran, embarks on his first head coaching role with the Battlehawks. He brings prior coaching experience from both UFL and NFL levels, though never as the lead strategist. While initial challenges are expected for a rookie head coach, many have confidence in Proehl’s return to St. Louis.
Proehl bolsters his staff with seasoned expertise. Offensive coordinator A.J. Smith previously coached in San Antonio and Houston, while Corey Chamblin, known for leading one of the spring’s top defenses with Birmingham last year, takes over as defensive coordinator.
In DC, Harris maintains continuity, bringing back offensive coordinator Fred Kaiss and defensive coordinator Blake Williams, making the Defenders the only team to retain their entire coaching staff this season.
While numerous teams across the league are adapting to new environments, St. Louis remains in its familiar dome, where the UFL’s most devoted fan base is poised to ignite for Week One.
The Dome at America’s Center, affectionately known as The Battledome, has consistently fostered an incredibly loud and intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams. With Nelly and the St. Lunatics scheduled to perform at halftime, there’s no doubt the dome will be absolutely rocking on Saturday.