In the heart of the American Southwest, a soccer club has ignited passion like wildfire. New Mexico United, formed in 2018, isn’t just a team—it’s a movement. They’ve turned desert dust into gold, proving that belief, unity, and boldness can spark something special.
This isn’t your typical USL Championship story. It’s bigger. It’s louder. And it keeps growing.
A Bold Beginning
When New Mexico United launched, many doubted it would work. Albuquerque wasn’t a traditional soccer market. The state had no pro team before. But founder Peter Trevisani saw potential.
He believed New Mexico was ready. Not just for a team—but for a cultural force. So, with courage and clarity, he built a club from scratch. And almost overnight, it caught fire.
A City Embraced the Badge
From the start, fans showed up. And they didn’t just attend—they bled black and yellow.
In the 2019 inaugural season, New Mexico United led the league in attendance. Every home game at Isotopes Park became a celebration. Flags waved. Drums pounded. Chants roared.
But what truly stood out? The diversity. Fans came from every walk of life. Young, old, Hispanic, Indigenous, white—everyone stood shoulder to shoulder.
The club became a mirror of the state. It united people in a way nothing else had before.
Results Came Quickly
On the pitch, the team didn’t waste time. In their first season, they made the U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals. Along the way, they knocked out MLS clubs like Colorado Rapids and FC Dallas.
That run put the club on the map. Suddenly, people across the country were paying attention.
In the USL Championship, they also held their own. Though they narrowly missed the playoffs, they gained respect. More importantly, they showed they belonged.
A Club That Stands for Something
While many teams play it safe, New Mexico United chose a different path. From day one, they stood for progress.
They launched Somos Unidos Foundation, focused on education, mental health, and equity. They created free-to-play youth programs across the state. And they used their platform to amplify local voices.
In 2020, during a time of social unrest, the club didn’t stay silent. Instead, they stood with the community. They painted murals, held conversations, and used soccer as a tool for change.
As a result, the bond between the club and fans only grew stronger.
Isotopes Park: A Temporary Fortress
United plays its home games at Isotopes Park, a baseball stadium shared with the Albuquerque Isotopes.
While it’s not a soccer-specific stadium, the atmosphere is electric. Fans fill the stands, wave scarves, and create one of the loudest environments in the league.
Still, the club has long dreamed of building its own home. For years, they’ve pushed for a downtown stadium—a place built by and for the community.
Although funding challenges have delayed progress, the dream lives on.
And when that stadium finally opens? It could become one of the crown jewels of American soccer.
Building with Heart, Not Just Hype
New Mexico United doesn’t chase superstars. Instead, they recruit players who reflect the club’s values—resilience, humility, and passion.
Players like Amando Moreno, Devon Sandoval, and Kalen Ryden became local legends. Not just for their play, but for how they carried themselves off the field.
The coaching staff, too, believes in development. Head coach Eric Quill emphasizes work rate, discipline, and team spirit. His sides press high, transition quickly, and play with grit.
That identity makes United tough to beat—especially in front of their home fans.
Somos Unidos: More Than a Motto
“Somos Unidos” means “We Are United.” But for this club, it’s more than a slogan.
It’s a philosophy.
It shows up in every community event. It echoes in every player speech. And it drives the team through ups and downs.
Whether they’re hosting food drives or building murals in Indigenous neighborhoods, the club lives its values. It isn’t just about soccer. It’s about service.
And that mindset has made them one of the most respected organizations in the league.
A Statewide Mission
New Mexico United doesn’t just represent Albuquerque. It represents the whole state.
That’s why they’ve hosted exhibitions in cities like Las Cruces, Farmington, and Roswell. They’ve taken buses full of fans to away matches. And they’ve built one of the widest-reaching youth programs in the country.
By doing so, they’ve created something rare—a true state club in American soccer.
Now, kids from every corner of New Mexico dream of wearing the United kit.
Looking Ahead: Chasing the Next Step
So, what’s next for New Mexico United?
First, they want silverware. The club has made the playoffs, but they aim higher. They want to lift a USL Championship trophy.
Second, they remain focused on their stadium dream. A permanent home would elevate everything—from facilities to recruitment to fan experience.
Lastly, they want to inspire the next generation. Through scholarships, mentorship, and grassroots access, United is building future leaders—not just players.
Final Whistle: A Club That Changed the Game
In just a few years, New Mexico United has done what many thought impossible. They’ve turned a non-traditional soccer market into a passionate fortress. They’ve built a culture that blends joy, resistance, and unity. And they’ve done it all with authenticity.
As the club continues to grow, one thing is clear: this is more than a team. It’s a movement. And it’s only just begun.
So if you haven’t watched a match in Albuquerque yet, add it to your list. You won’t just see a game—you’ll feel the heartbeat of a city, a state, and a dream come true.
Somos Unidos. Always.
SC Toronto U21 Womens Team – Indoor 2019-2020
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