Football game days are one staple that FSU students look forward to every fall semester. Cute outfits, tailgating, and the Marching Chiefs echoing school spirit in Doak Campbell Stadium make for tons of great memories. Even so, FSU football’s future is currently up in the air. With recent tough losses to Southern Methodist University (SMU) and the University of Alabama, some students are skeptical about the success of the team this season.
Based on statistics alone, the Noles might have some promise despite their record. FSU starting quarterback Ashton Daniels has a cumulative 928 passing yards, and wide receiver Duce Robinson leads the team in receiving yards with 262 of his own. Only time will tell if the Noles have it in them to make it to a bowl game this year after a couple of losing seasons.
But enough football! The fall semester brings a lineup of other impressive teams and standout players worth watching.
Reigning Champs: Women’s Soccer
These reigning national champions don’t need an introduction.
Even though I didn’t grow up watching the sport, this talented team gets me hyped up every time I watch a game at the Seminole Soccer Complex. The program has had much success in recent years with five total national championships in 2014, 2018, 2021, 2023, and most recently in 2025.
The team entered the 2026 season with the No. 4 ranking but has dropped to No. 22 with a current record of 4-1-2. Coach Brian Pensky, who is entering his fifth year as head coach, says they are welcoming 16 new players, including 11 transfers and five freshmen.
Some players to watch are Kate Ockene, Wrianna Hudson, and Janet Okeke. Sophomore goalie Ockene started her freshman season with a big performance in the national championship and a high of 9 saves.
Hudson and Okeke were both named on the 2026 Preseason All-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Team. Hudson, a junior forward, scored 15 goals last season and has already recorded 10 shots in the first four games. Junior defender Okeke helped FSU get the national title last year while in her first year as a Seminole. She has started in all four games so far this season.
These girls are so much fun to watch, especially after the sun goes down and the weather has a nice breeze. Catching up with friends while watching the game was a common pastime my freshman year that I hope to continue.
Must-Watch Sport: Volleyball
Seminole volleyball often draws a decent crowd, especially against rival and conference teams. Located in Tully Gymnasium, the girls host lively games and impassioned fans.
As someone who played volleyball, these games are must-see. For newcomers to the game, the fast-paced tempo of the points and impressive athleticism keep you glued to the court the whole time. Head coach Lindsay Allman is leading the team in her first year in the position, having previously been the assistant coach. Her team is made up of a few veterans with lots of new talent.
In its first game within ACC conference play, FSU beat Miami 3 sets to 2. The five-set thriller featured two outstanding outside hitters: Kyleene Filimaua and Sofia Moss.
Filimaua, an accomplished senior, led the team with 18 kills and 15 digs. Close behind, Moss, a freshman, showed her ability with 16 kills and 11 digs. Other key players were senior opposite player Bailey Higgins and junior middle Delaney Ewing, who put up seven blocks each.
If the girls keep up their high-powered offense and continue working defensively, this season has a bright future.
Most home games also feature a small portion of the Marching Chiefs that encourage spirit and contribute to a rowdy atmosphere. Attending these fun games gives me something to look forward to after a long day of classes and brings joy to sometimes hectic days.
Successful Noles: Cross Country
Although not as prominent as the first two, FSU men’s and women’s cross country teams are just as successful.
At the home pre-regional opener hosted at Appalachian Park, both teams swept the top 5 finishers. Junior Hudson Betts placed first in the men’s 8,000-meter race with a 24:28 time. Teammates Kaden Levings and Gino Palazzalo were close behind, helping contribute to their first-place finish and 26 points.
On the girls’ side, they took the victory with 16 points. Rylee Blade, who was recently named ACC Women’s Runner of the Week, secured a win with 20:39.1. Also standing out in the 6,000-meter race were teammates Nicole Schipperen and Nicole Dinan.
Even though I’m not a runner myself, the success of the cross country teams gives me motivation to get into the sport. The fall foliage can become especially gorgeous in the months of October and November, which is all the more reason to come support the team.
It’s important to note that 3 out of the 4 teams listed above are women’s sports. Supporting our female athletes, whether it’s in-person or online, is important to the growth of the game and our school pride. Like the company Togethxr says, “Everyone Watches Women’s Sports.” You could be a part of the fanbase! Follow their websites and social media for updates on schedules and personnel.
As always, go Noles!
Want to see more HCFSU? Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Pinterest!