Exciting Road Swing Begins: Aggies Take on Middle Tennessee – Catch the Action with New Mexico State Athletics!

NM State Soccer: A Crucial Road Stretch Ahead

NM State is gearing up for a vital period as they hit the road to face Middle Tennessee. This game kicks off three consecutive away matches that are critical for their chances in the 2025 Conference USA Championship. Currently, the team is just three points behind securing a spot in the postseason.

Bianca Chacon’s Comeback

Senior midfielder Bianca Chacon has had an impressive return. After recovering from a serious injury last season, she contributed significantly in a game against Cal State Fullerton, assisting on two goals. This performance not only marked her first points of the season but also helped her regain the top spot in career assists at NM State, with 20 to her name. Chacon’s consistent play has made her a key player, and her journey reflects the resilience needed in sports.

Ariana Leamons Shines Again

Another notable player, Ariana Leamons, also bounced back from an injury that cut her previous season short. She returned to make an impact, scoring a goal against Cal State Fullerton. Leamons has been in solid form this season, showcasing her skill and determination. In the 2024 season, she had already built a commendable record before her injury, and her return is a big boost for the team.

Valerie Guha’s Impact

In goal, Valerie Guha has become a defensive pillar for NM State. Since taking over as the starting goalkeeper, she has accumulated an impressive number of saves and wins. Recently, Guha earning her third weekly conference award highlights her standout contributions and the solid foundation she provides for the team.

Coach Rob Baarts’ Transformation of the Program

Under Head Coach Rob Baarts, NM State soccer has experienced a notable transformation. Since his arrival in 2018, he has led the team to significant achievements, including its first conference title match and a historic NCAA tournament appearance.

Baarts’ coaching philosophy emphasizes resilience and adaptability, traits that have clearly resonated with his players. Even as they face tough competition from higher-ranked teams, the Aggies have demonstrated they can rise to the occasion, achieving non-loss results against top-tier opponents.

Aggies in Conference USA

Since joining Conference USA in 2023, NM State has built a solid reputation. Their debut season featured an impressive unbeaten streak against conference rivals (6-0-2), making them a force to reckon with in their new league. This season, despite some challenging results, the team has maintained a strong presence, showing growth and determination.

Honoring Thalia Chaverria

The team also honors late player Thalia Chaverria through their annual ‘Purple-Out’ game. This tradition fosters community spirit and pays tribute to her memory. The team has embraced this initiative, demonstrating how sports can unite and inspire.

Exciting Future Ahead

With new additions to the coaching staff, like former player Xitlaly Hernandez, and ongoing improvements in player performance, the future looks promising for NM State soccer. As they navigate the rest of the season, the combination of talent, resilience, and community support positions them well for success.

For more updates on NM State Soccer, check out NMStateSports.com.

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