San Diego Wave FC takes the pitch at Snapdragon Stadium on Saturday for its 2026 season opener against the Houston Dash with a nearly unrecognizable roster. Over the past three months, the team has undergone a makeover, parting ways with nearly 10 veterans, including goalkeeper and team captain Kailen Sheridan, forward Delphine Cascarino, and midfielder Savannah McCaskill. The club added the dynamic Ludmila to a squad that mixes savvy veterans and young up-and-comers. Ludmila, a Brazilian forward, fills the void left by Cascarino, who signed with a European team to be closer to her native France. San Diego traded for Ludmila in mid-January, sending a sizable $800,000 transfer fee to the Chicago Stars. The Wave also added defender/midfielder Kiki Pickett, who signed a two-year deal through the 2027 season. Pickett has 68 league appearances, including 51 starts, with three goals and two assists across her professional career. The team's overhaul has raised expectations, with a rumored blockbuster addition possible at midseason. The rest of the squad could end up forming one of the better starting units in the league, pushing toward a deep playoff run. The Wave's Sporting Director, Camille Ashton, praised Ludmila's versatility, saying it allows her to operate in multiple attacking roles. The team's new additions will be put to the test in their season opener against the Houston Dash. With a winning record last season, the Wave is looking to build on that success. The club's fans will be eager to see how the new roster performs. The Wave's season opener is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting season. The team's roster overhaul has brought a mix of excitement and uncertainty, but one thing is clear: San Diego Wave FC is ready to take on the 2026 season with a renewed sense of purpose.