The University of Tennessee’s women’s soccer program is generating buzz as it heads into the 2026 season, with two standout players already drawing national attention.
Preseason Accolades
Freshman forward Ayva Jordan, a four‑time All‑American and 2025 Elite Clubs National League MVP, has been selected to the Preseason Freshman Best XI and sits sixth overall among incoming freshmen according to TopDrawerSoccer. Her list of honors also includes the 2025 Elite Clubs National League MVP award, 2021 Player of the Year recognition, and years of service on the U.S. Youth National Team from the U‑15 through U‑19 levels.
Goalkeeper’s Rise
Junior goalkeeper Cayden Norris, a native of Johnson City, Tennessee, cracked the Preseason Top 100 at No. 74 and posted a stellar 2025 campaign with 13 shutouts, a .793 save percentage and 46 saves, highlighted by a seven‑match clean‑sheet streak to open the season.
The Lady Vols will open their schedule on Thursday, September 4, facing Rutgers at 7 p.m. EDT, a matchup that promises to showcase the fresh talent and depth of the roster.
With Jordan’s offensive firepower and Norris’s reliable presence between the posts, Tennessee aims to translate early preseason praise into a strong start, hoping the early chemistry will carry them through a demanding conference slate.