Pirates Finalize 2026 Volleyball Roster with Nine Additions

PENSACOLA, Fla. – Pensacola State College head volleyball coach Patricia Gandolfo has announced the addition of nine players who will complete the Pirates' roster for the upcoming fall season.

"I'm super excited about this incoming class," Gandolfo said. "The different personalities and styles of play they bring are really refreshing to see as a coach. Each of them adds something unique and will complement one another on and off the court while building on the foundation we've established in our program. I can't wait to see them compete, grow, and officially become part of our team. It's going to be a lot of fun watching this group come together, and I'm excited to see what we can accomplish this season."

Addison Smith | Libero/Defensive Specialist

Smith enrolled at Pensacola State during the Spring 2026 semester after completing her freshman season at Faulkner University. The 5-foot-8 libero from the Pensacola area attended Milton High School and competed for Coastal Crush Volleyball Club. During her high school career, she received the FCA Go the Distance Award. As a freshman at Faulkner, Smith totaled 47 digs and 26 service aces in 21 matches.

"I chose PSC because it offers the program I want, it's affordable, the community here is amazing, and it allows me to keep working toward my goals while staying close to home."

Kate Gordon | Setter

Gordon joins the Pirates following a standout career at Oak Mountain High School in Birmingham, Alabama. The 5-foot-7 setter was a two-time AVCA Phenom Watch List selection and a three-time JVA Watch List honoree. She was named EDGG Player of the Year in 2023 and earned spots on the AHSVCA Preseason Watch List in 2024 and 2025, as well as AL.com 7A Players to Watch.

During her junior season, Gordon earned All-Area Team, All-South Metro Second Team, All-County Second Team, and All-Region Honorable Mention honors. She finished her career with more than 500 assists while setting Oak Mountain High School records for career aces and earning the school's Setter Award and AHSVCA State Honorable Mention recognition.

Off the court, Gordon graduated with honors and was a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, National English Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, and National Science Honor Society.

"I chose PSC because of the close-knit program. It truly feels like one big family. I also couldn't imagine playing the sport I love in a better location. The girls they recruit are all so talented and hardworking, and I'm grateful I'll be surrounded by those people every day."

Kaylyn Gill | Setter

Gill arrives at Pensacola State after her career at St. Vincent's Academy in Savannah, Georgia. The 5-foot-7 setter earned MVP honors as a junior, was a two-time First Team All-Region selection and two-time Coach's Award recipient, and collected seven Player of the Week honors throughout her career, including Savannah Morning News Player of the Week recognition in 2025.

"I love the coaches and team, and I've always been a beach girl. I love everything about the city and everything the college has to offer."

Leila Washington | Outside Hitter

Washington comes to Pensacola State from Metairie Park Country Day School in Metairie, Louisiana. The 5-foot-7 outside hitter helped lead her team to four state championships while earning LVCA All-State and All-District honors.

"I chose Pensacola State College because the environment was welcoming, the coaches genuinely cared, and the players felt like a team I could truly belong to. I feel like this is a place where I can grow and become a better version of myself both on and off the court."

Logan Pease | Middle Hitter

Pease joins the Pirates after her career at Owyhee High School in Meridian, Idaho. The 6-foot middle hitter brings size and presence at the net after earning SIC 6A All-League Honorable Mention honors in 2025. She ranked second in Idaho's SIC 6A classification with 79 total blocks while also recording 35 service aces. During her junior season, she ranked sixth in Idaho 6A with 85 total blocks.

"I chose Pensacola because of Coach Pati. I believe she is going to push me to be the best I can be in volleyball and in school."

Shaelyn Ward | Middle Hitter

Ward comes to Pensacola State after an outstanding career at Aubrey High School in Aubrey, Texas. The 6-foot-1 middle hitter earned District MVP, All-Area Offensive MVP, TGCA 4A All-State, and TSWA Second Team All-State honors during her senior season. She was also selected to the All-Tournament Team at each high school tournament her team competed in.

"I chose Pensacola State for its great location, strong volleyball program, and the connection I felt with the coaches and team."

Annika Kane | Outside/Right-Side Hitter

Kane joins the Pirates from Vista Ridge High School in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The 5-foot-10 pin hitter brings versatility and leadership after serving as team captain during her junior season. She graduated as a two-time All-League Honorable Mention selection and was recognized as one of the league's Top 10 Seniors.

"I chose Pensacola State because of the mindset of both coaches, the high-level program, and the amazing location."

Alice Leonard | Outside Hitter

Leonard arrives from Seven Rivers Christian School in Lecanto, Florida. The 5-foot-8 outside hitter earned All-County honors in Citrus County and received the Warrior Award. In the classroom, she graduated on the Honor Roll while earning National Honor Society recognition, the Headmaster's Award, and the Faculty Award.

"I chose Pensacola State College because I loved the chemistry within the volleyball program and how the team competed together instead of as individuals. I was also impressed by the college's strong nursing and healthcare programs. I know I can receive a great education while pursuing my dream of playing collegiate volleyball with incredible coaching."

Hadasa Canales Arroyo | Outside/Right-Side Hitter

Canales Arroyo rounds out the Pirates' 2026 signing class after her career at Tohopekaliga High School in St. Cloud, Florida. The 5-foot-7 pin hitter excelled both academically and athletically, earning Dean's List recognition while completing dual enrollment coursework. On the court, she was named MVP and received the OBC Medal, Coach's Award, and Rookie of the Year honors.

"I chose PSC because it feels like the place where I can grow as a person, not just in volleyball but in life. The supportive community, strong academic programs, and commitment to student success give me confidence that I can pursue my goals with purpose and determination."