UNM Soccer: 8-4-5 Season Ends Without Mountain West Tournament Bid

The University of New Mexico women's soccer team concluded its 2026 season with an 8-4-5 overall record. The squad also posted a 5-2-3 mark in Mountain West Conference play. Despite these winning numbers, the Lobos failed to secure a spot in the conference tournament.

First year head coach Karley Nelson led the team through the season. The squad was not among the top four teams in the Mountain West. Consequently, the program's season ended after the regular conference schedule concluded.

The roster included 11 senior players. Nelson noted that this group played a central role in the coaching search last year. "They were in Fern's office every day advocating for me," Nelson said. She added that the seniors led the charge to get her hired when there was uncertainty about the program's direction.

The team's athletic director during that period was Fern. Nelson recalled the time a year ago when the hiring process was underway. She stated that the seniors' advocacy was a key factor in her appointment. "I just can't say enough about this group of seniors," Nelson said.

With the 2026 season closed, the program's attention has shifted to the 2027 cycle. National Signing Day is scheduled for this week. The Lobos are expected to receive new commitments that will shape the next roster.

Nelson indicated that the current players are already preparing for the upcoming offseason. "The players are already texting and asking, hey, what are we going to be?" she said. She mentioned that the team may take on one or two players through the transfer portal, though the program is not known for heavy use of that mechanism.

The coaching staff is excited about the incoming 2027 class. Nelson said the team will evaluate the transfer portal options as they arise. The players are eager to begin lifting and prepping for the next season.