Penn State's women's soccer program is poised for a high‑profile start to the 2026 campaign, with the Nittany Lions scheduled to open the season against the nation's second‑ranked team, Notre Dame, in South Bend, Indiana. The noon kickoff will be broadcast on the ACC Network, drawing immediate attention to the squad's ambitions.
Preseason accolades
Molly Martin, a midfielder who started every match in 2024 and logged all 21 games last year, earned a 71st‑place ranking on the Top Drawer Soccer preseason Top 100 list. Her contributions included a goal and four assists, totaling six points, underscoring her role as a key playmaker for the team.
Defensive standout
Defender Bella Ayscue secured the 99th spot on the same list after a sophomore season that featured two goals, an assist and five total points. Her performances helped the back line record six shutouts and limit opponents to just 1.19 goals per game, while she also earned United Soccer Coaches Defender to Watch honors for the second straight year.
A showdown in South Bend
The season‑opening clash will take place at noon on Sunday, with the match slated for broadcast on the ACC Network. Both coaches have highlighted the strategic importance of the encounter, noting that the game will serve as an early gauge for the Nittany Lions as they aim to climb the national rankings.
As the team gears up for the challenge, veterans like Martin and Ayscue are expected to provide leadership on and off the field. Their preseason recognitions not only reflect individual excellence but also signal the program’s growing prominence in collegiate soccer.