Building a Defending Champion
Florida State University’s women’s soccer program entered the 2026 campaign with a clear directive: protect the national title it captured in 2025. Head coach Brian Pensky, who guided the Seminoles to that championship, has already turned his attention to the challenges that lie ahead.
The 2025 roster lost several cornerstone players, among them star forward Jordynn Dudley and midfield dynamo Yuna McCormak, who pursued professional opportunities and personal commitments. In their place, Pensky welcomed fifteen newcomers, including Ashley Henderson from Memphis, Stanford’s Joelle Jung, and Grace Hoytink, each bringing a fresh infusion of talent.
Among the returnees, Wrianna Hudonson stands out after a breakout season that saw her net fifteen goals. Her presence, combined with veterans such as Peyton McGovern, Jadia McGrew and goalkeeper Kate Ockene, provides continuity and leadership for a squad eager to repeat its success.
United Soccer Coaches currently rank the Seminoles fourth nationally, positioning them behind conference powerhouses Stanford, Duke and Notre Dame. Before the regular season opens on August 13, the team will test its chemistry in a preseason exhibition against Sporting Jax on August 7.
Pensky says the preseason poll does not drive the team’s motivation, but he acknowledges that a high ranking can be leveraged as a strategic tool. The coach emphasizes a collective mindset, focusing on daily improvement rather than external expectations.