Florida State Begins 2026 Preparations as Defending Champion

A changed squad, a familiar challenge

The report says Pensky has brought 16 newcomers into a program that lost nearly all of its starting lineup after the 2025 title run. Among the reported arrivals are Ashley Henderson, the American Conference’s Offensive Player of the Year after recording 10 goals and nine assists for Memphis, Stanford midfielder Joelle Jung and defender Grace Hoytink, who was selected to the All-SEC second team.

Those names point to a roster with promising ingredients, but rebuilding understanding across the pitch will take more than assembling talent. Florida State will need its returning players to provide continuity while the new group settles into Pensky’s system.

The first clues arrive against Sporting Jax

A friendly cannot settle every question, especially with a reshaped roster, but it offers an early look at combinations and roles before the competitive season begins. The report also places Florida State fourth in the preseason United Soccer Coaches ranking, behind conference rivals Stanford, Duke and Notre Dame-a reminder that the champions will face a demanding path back to the top.

Pensky’s side now has little time to turn a title-winning past into a credible 2026 identity. The Sporting Jax match is the first chance to start that process; the trip to Stetson will bring the first official test.