A Fresh Start Under Nelson
The University of New Mexico’s women’s soccer program is poised for a breakthrough season. After years of near‑misses, the Lobos have set their sights on capturing their first Mountain West Conference championship and securing an automatic NCAA tournament berth since 2022. Guiding the charge is first‑year head coach Karley Nelson, who inherits a squad that finished last year at 8‑5‑6 and returns 21 players, eight of whom are starters.
Nelson’s vision centers on a high‑pressure, attacking style that emphasizes winning the ball higher up the field and committing more players forward. Key figures in that equation include defender Gabby Beaudry, who will anchor the backline, and defender‑turned‑midfielder Fiona Jenkins, whose eight assists last season hint at a more offensive role. Midfielder Kennedy Brown is also expected to influence play from the center of the park.
The attacking unit will lean on returning forwards Nicole Anderson and Alysa Whelchel, who contributed eight and six goals respectively in the previous campaign, helping the team to a total of 31 goals. Their experience should provide the firepower needed to execute the new system, which aims to increase scoring opportunities while maintaining defensive solidity.
Between the posts, goalkeepers Callie Droitsch and Alyson Campbell are back in action after Droitsch overcame a knee injury that sidelined her part‑way through the last season. Their presence offers continuity and confidence in a position that often proves decisive in tight conference matchups.
Beyond tactics, the squad’s culture appears unified and committed. Players have spoken of a strong foundation built on past success, and the offseason work has focused on mastering new formations and instilling a collective mindset that Nelson believes can translate into consistent results on the field.