The new clutch will not be spongy. It will have a limited, but smooth, engagement range, with lots of travel below the engagement point when properly adjusted. It will feel lighter as well.
As the flywheel will be off check the rear crankshaft seal. If it needs replacing and it probably will then dig it out carefully and replace it. Don't remove the seal housing.
The shop that refaces the wheel should know to remove an equal amount from the clutch cover mounting surface so that the distance between it and the friction surface remains the same. Ask them if they do that as if you don't know so they don't get huffy.
You'll be amazed at how well the clutch works if all goes good.