Fresh off a national championship season, the Eagles soccer team enters 2026 with a familiar standard: compete for another title. While the Eagles enter the year with a talented roster and a proven championship foundation, their ultimate goal is clear. The Eagles are seeking to accomplish something the program has not yet achieved: winning consecutive national championships. "We are still striving to hit one of the big goals that we have not met as a program: go back-to-back with the National Championship," Liwosz said. 
 

The Eagles enjoyed a phenomenal 2025 campaign, winning the national championship while producing the National Player of the Year in Boaz Da Silva, two First Team All-Americans in Jackson Clarke and Da Silva, and Second Team All-American Samir Vieira Siqueira. Clarke, Da Silva, and Vieira Siqueira also earned National All-Tournament Team recognition.

Now entering his 10th season as head coach, Joe Liwosz returns each of those All-Americans from last year's championship roster. PCC also brings back five of its top six players in minutes played, giving the Eagles an experienced foundation as they pursue another national title. "We have a very strong returning core from last year's championship season and will be relying heavily on their leadership on and off the field," Liwosz said.

Junior Jackson Clarke headlines the returning group after leading the Eagles in goals, points, shots, and shots on goal in 2025. He also finished second on the team in assists, making him one of PCC's most productive and versatile returning attacking options.

Graduate-student goalkeeper Nathaniel Hixson anchors the Eagles defensively. Hixson recorded 62 saves, 9 wins, and 4 shutouts last season while earning First Team All-Region recognition as the region's lone goalkeeper selection.

PCC's 2025 success was built in part on sustained offensive pressure. The Eagles led the nation in corner-kick attempts and ranked third nationally in both shots and shots on goal. That aggressive attacking identity will again be central to the Eagles' approach in 2026, forcing opposing defenses to remain organized and alert throughout all 90 minutes.

New Faces, Same Standard

Although PCC returns key pieces from its championship team, the 2026 roster will include the program's largest recruiting class to date. The Eagles welcome 14 new players, including 9 freshmen, 3 juniors, 1 sophomore, and 1 senior. They join 12 returners, creating a roster that combines championship experience with fresh talent and significant potential for growth. "We are very excited for what this year holds," Liwosz said. "This provides a large opportunity for growth and development with this year's class."

Building chemistry will be a defining early-season focus as the Eagles integrate newcomers and establish new roles for returning players. Throughout that process, Liwosz has established three central words for the program: respect, ownership, and integrity. "All of our team's expectations should turn back to these three things this season," Liwosz said.

The Eagles will also continue to rally around their team theme, "The Higher the Fewer," using the trials and challenges of the season to become stronger both individually and collectively.

2026 Schedule

The Eagles begin the season with two NAIA road matches in South Florida before returning to Pensacola for a two-match homestand. PCC will play an 18-match regular-season schedule, including 10 home contests and 8 road matches. With several road trips on the schedule, Liwosz hopes the Eagles can capitalize on their opportunities at home and build excitement around the program on campus.

The Eagles' slate features opponents from the NAIA, NCCAA Division I, NCAA Division III, NCCAA Division II, and USCAA. The diverse schedule will provide consistent challenges and valuable preparation as PCC looks to carry its championship standard into another postseason run.

Stay connected with the Lady Eagles all season long on Instagram at @eaglespccmsoc. For full coverage of all PCC Eagles teams, events, and schedules, follow @eaglespcc on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.