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February 27, 2017
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER: NIKO HANSEN GAMEWINNER VS MLS SEATTLE SOUNDERS IN FINAL EXHIBITION MATCH
Lobo Faithful:
Greetings from Lobo Soccer. All is well in the Land of Enchantment. Winter training has been incredible and the boys are ready for their first match after 7 weeks of intensive training. Lobos vs SMU at the FC Dallas Complex in Frisco, TX this Saturday night at 7:00 pm. Lobo Aaron Herrera and the USA U-20 National Team face off against Mexico today at 3:00 pm MST in the final round of World Cup qualifying. Wehan, Gurule, Goss and Rochowski are in the thick of things as they compete for final roster spots in their rookie professional seasons. Patrick Khouri just inked his first professional contract in Finland and Niko Hansen is scoring MLS goals in preseason. Hansen with the game winner for the MLS Columbus Crew vs defending MLS Champion Seattle Sounders Saturday night in both teams final exhibition match. The MLS season opens this weekend with Lobos playing for Vancouver, Minnesota, Seattle and Columbus. Here is Lobo All-American and Academic All-American Hansen’s GAME WINNER VS SEATTLE
I’ll keep you posted throughout the spring. Thanks for all your support and GO LOBOS!
FISH
February 14, 2017
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER: CLIMATE CHANGE
Lobo Faithful:
Wishing everyone a Happy Valentines Day! Wanted to pass on some recent news which stirs deep emotions in my heart and the hearts of everyone associated with Lobo Soccer. After serving our program and players for the past 9 years, Coach Paul Souders has accepted a new position with the University of Central Florida men’s soccer program. Exciting adventure for Paul and his family as they join Paul’s former collegiate coach, Scott Callabrese, in Orlando. 9 years working together as been an incredible experience. Witnessing Pauls growth as a man, as a coach and as a father of two girls has been humbling. A special man who has impacted many lives. Change is good for everyone and my task is to now find a new coach who will help our program continue to grow. With Paul’s departure, Coach Mike Graczyk is excited to fill a new role within our staff. I can’t say enough about Mike’s commitment to excellence and his development as a coach and mentor. Just wanted to make sure everyone was aware of this recent change and I will keep you posted once a new coach is hired.
Winter training has been really inspiring! The boys are putting in the WORK! They have found ways to grow as a new team and to collectively push themselves to levels of exertion they would have found unattainable as individuals. Can’t wait for our first spring match vs SMU in Dallas, TX March 4th!
I will stay in close contact throughout the spring and hope to run into many of you at our spring matchers the next two months in Dallas, Phoenix, Taos, Albuquerque and Denver. GO LOBOS!
FISH
February 1, 2017
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER: LOBOS INK FOUR TO NATIONAL LETTERS OF INTENT
Lobo Faithful:
The first Wednesday of February is National Signing Day for Division I Men’s Soccer. Can’t tell you how excited I am about the four players joining our program this fall. In addition to these Lobos (now), we will announce several more talented players over the upcoming months. Nick Barreiro, Bailey Letherman, Nick Taylor and Alex Vedamanikam are incredible young men, excellent students and decorated players. National Signing Day Release I hope you get a good feel for Nick, Bailey, Nick and Alex from the website article. I am excited about this team. The 2017 season is going to be an exciting one.
We are in the midst of the hardest four-week phase of winter training. Can’t say enough about the boys, their dedication and their passion for EXCELLENCE. We kick off our five-match spring schedule on March 4th in Dallas, TX vs SMU at 7:00 pm. Match Day 2 will be played in Phoenix, AZ on March 11th vs Grand Canyon University at 7:00 pm. Match Day 3 will be played in Taos, NM on April 15th vs Air Force Academy at 12:00 pm, Match Day 4 will be played at home April 22nd vs Colorado School of Mines at 12:00 pm and Match Day 5 will be played in Denver, CO on April 29th vs Denver University at 7:00 pm. Thrilled about this schedule and the opportunity our boys get to test themselves against top notch competition.
Thanks for all your support and ready to ROLL….GO LOBOS!
FISH
January 25, 2017
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER: RE-CAP AND PROGRAM UPDATES … EXCITING NEWS
Lobo Faithful:
Hope 2017 is off to wonderful start for you and your family! Things here are FANTASTIC! Wrapping up our second week of school and team training. Always exciting to begin preparation for a new season. Our year is very different than most: January-April is our preseason and September-December is the culmination/reward for the previous 8 months of hard work. With the departure of 5 seniors and two underclassmen (will discus later in this email), our returning 18 players take on new roles and responsibilities. In the course of 8 weeks, the team has transformed and a new identity has been created. Real excited about this group! Young, tenacious, dynamic, skillful, unified and athletic. National Signing Day is February 1st and we will announce several additions to our program, with more to follow over the next several months. In the meantime, I want to pass on exciting news regarding our graduating seniors, youth and senior national team news involving Lobo Soccer and players moving on to new challenges. Your support has fueled us and I am really proud of last years accomplishments. Exciting times ahead for Lobo Soccer!
Hansen and Wehan invited to MLS Combine: Niko Hansen and Chris Wehan received invitations to the MLS Combine. They were both part of the initial 53 collegiate seniors predicted as top professional prospects. UNM is one of only 15 programs nationally to have multiple players invited: MLS COMBINE
Niko Hansen drafted #9 overall in MLS Draft. Niko has signed a guaranteed contract with the Columbus Crew of MLS, reported to training camp and departed for two weeks of preseason in Brazil on Monday: #9 MLS DRAFT PICK
Seniors Wehan, Gurule, Goss and Rochowski are all pursuing professional playing careers. After a disappointing MLS draft, with only Niko Hansen being selected, our remaining four seniors (all have graduated from UNM) are currently in and out of professional player combines prior to entering professional training camps in February. I am confident all four will find themselves on opening day rosters in either the MLS, NASL or USL.
Former Lobo Ben McKendry gets first international cap for Canadian Senior National Team vs Bermuda. Really proud and excited for Ben, as he played and started in his first international match for the full Canadian Senior National Team in preparation for International qualifying: McKendry News
Exciting to see former Lobo Oniel Fisher hoist the MLS Championship trophy as a member of the MLS Seattle Sounders. Oniel is also representing Jamaica at the Senior International level.
Aaron Herrera has spent the last 6 weeks in camp with the USA U-20 National Team in preparation for U-20 World Cup qualifiers in Costa Rica this February and March: USA U-20’s
Matthew Constant has been away with the Canadian U-20 National Team in preparation for U-20 World Cup qualifiers in Costa Rica this February and March. Matt has traveled to Toronto for training camp and played international friendlies in Panama vs the Panamanian U-20’s.
Patrick Khouri has decided to forgo his final two years of eligibility to pursue a professional playing career in Finland. We are very sad to see Patrick depart, but he has been given a tremendous opportunity to achieve his dream of playing professionally and leaves New Mexico in good academic standing with everyones support: Khouri
Goalkeeper Andy Rios has transferred to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in pursuit of a starting position in goal. Andy has put in two years of hard work for the Lobos and hasn’t seen the time he desires. He will make an immediate impact at UTRGV’s Division I program.
This should help you catch up on what’s happening with Lobo Soccer and I will email with a re-cap of National Signing Day on February 1st. Up to the minute news is posted daily on our Lobo Soccer Twitter account and Lobo Soccer Facebook account. Thanks for all your support and excited for the future. Our spring season kicks off March 4th in Dallas vs SMU! Signing Day and Spring Schedule in my next Lobo Faithful. GO LOBOS!
FISH
November 23, 2016
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER: WHAT A SEASON, PROUD OF THE BOYS
Lobo Faithful,
Sure am proud of our team! What an amazing group of young men who overcame tremendous pressure and adversity throughout season to win a Conference USA Championship and make an NCAA Second Round appearance. Special thanks to our five seniors: Josh Goss, Nick Rochowski, Chris Gurule, Chris Wehan and Niko Hansen. Can’t say enough about their outstanding play and inspirational leadership. Tough result Sunday night vs a talented and hungry University of Washington. We opened strong and struck first, but the mental and physical toll of travel and 5 games in 12 days got the better of us. We had to be close to perfect in terms of game management and execution to win this one. No excuses (I think I just gave two), it wasn’t our day and congrats to Washington! I’m still transitioning, so going to make this email a short one. I will get back to you with my thoughts on the season and what lies ahead. Here’s the NCAA Second Round match vs Washington Re-Cap
It was announced yesterday that Niko Hansen was named to the CoSIDA Academic All-America First Team I will keep you posted as more players receive individual awards (I expect quite a few). Niko is the 20th Lobo men’s soccer player to be named to the Academic All-America Team since 2002. This is the most of any collegiate soccer program in the country regardless of division. Proud of our players commitment to EXCELLENCE in the classroom.
Two former Lobo soccer players will be battling it out as coaches this weekend in the NCAA “Sweet 16”, as Washington heads to the University of Denver. Jeff Rowland (2005) will be on the sidelines for UW and Levi Rossi (2012) will be manning the touch for Denver. Proud of Jeff and Levi!
Thanks for all your support. Have a great Thanksgiving and GO LOBOS!
FISH
November 18, 2016
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER: ON TO NCAA SECOND ROUND!
WOW! Can’t say enough about this team. We made it interesting last night….the 2300+ people in the stands who braved the elements, sure got their money’s worth! Lobo’s found a way…special group and so happy and proud of this group! Portland was a very good team with some excellent attacking players….Cut to the chase….0-0, double overtime, penalty kicks. 9 rounds and Ford Parker man of the hour…again. Sorry for the brevity of this email, catching a flight to Seattle in less than two hours. Lobos on to NCAA Second Round in Seattle, WA this Sunday 5:00 Pacific Time: Portland Re-Cap
Man am I beat! We have a charter flight departing Albuquerque at 11:00 am today (NCAA came through BIG). Everything is set for the trip and the main goal is for the team to get their legs back, unwind and then focus on Sunday, Washington is a great team. We played them in August in an exhibition and they are quality. Going to be a tremendous match-up. The are coached by Jamie Clark who was an assistant here for 4 years and assistant coach, Jeff Rowland, was a 2-time All-American for the Lobos. Lots of connections!
NCAA SECOND ROUND SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20TH 5:00 PM
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON
LOBOS VS WASHINGTON HUSKIES
Thanks for all your support and see you soon. GO LOBOS!
FISH
November 13, 2016
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER: CONFERENCE USA TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS … ON TO NCAA TOURNAMENT!
Lobo Faithful,
Conference-USA Tournament Champions! Can’t tell you how proud I am of this team! 3-0 win over Florida International in todays Final. With the win, the automatic pass into the NCAA Tournament. Man did the boys show grit, toughness, passion, unity, quality and fight this week. Wins over #18 Kentucky, #5 Charlotte and #50 FIU to bring home the trophy. Cant wait for the next one! Tremendous defense set the tone this afternoon and goals from Niko Hansen (2) and Chris Wehan sealed the deal. Complete performance! Todays Conference Final Re-Cap
We fly out of Charleston, WV early tomorrow morning and arrive in Albuquerque at 11:20 am. The NCAA Selection Show starts at 11:00 am, so we will not be hosting a “watch party” tomorrow…..we won’t be watching! If I had to guess, we host the opening round this Thursday night at the Lobo Soccer Complex at 7:00 pm. We will know for sure by tomorrow afternoon. NCAA Tournament Information and bracket can be found Here tomorrow around noon or go to our team website.
Great photos and videos from todays match and post-game antics on our Lobo Soccer Twitter account
Thanks for all your support and belief. Lets keep it ROLLING….GO LOBOS!
FISH
November 11, 2016
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER: READY FOR TODAY’S 2:30PM (MT) MATCH
Lobo Faithful,
Big one today and the boys are focused, re-charged and ready! 4:30 EST (2:30 in Albuquerque) kickoff for the first semi-final of the Conference-USA Tournament vs #5 Charlotte. We are excited and prepared for todays match. Great day yesterday having a look around town, light training session, recovery and in-depth scouting report. Everyone got to bed early and things kicked off this morning around 9:00 with a light breakfast, 10:30 video and set piece walk through, 1:00 pregame meal and off to the stadium at 2:45. Everything is ahead of us and I’m excited for the match! Link to todays coverage
Appreciate everyones support and send your positive energy our way! GO LOBOS!
FISH
November 8, 2016
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER: Conference USA Tournament Update
Lobo Faithful,
Lobo Soccer is ready to ROLL! Landed in Charleston, WV Monday late afternoon, drove 45 minutes to Huntington, WV….checked into the Holiday Inn and traveled down the road for a short training session at Huntington High School. We needed to find a place to practice Monday night, as per Conference rules, we couldn’t get on the tournament fields until Tuesday. Coach Mike Graczyk had five days to find a training field for Monday night….preferably, artificial turf (tournament played on Marshall’s artificial field). He nailed it! First call to Huntington High and the stars were aligned! Athletic Director Bruce Senior is a New Mexican and his wife played basketball at UNM. Bruce met us at the field and was an incredible host. Lobos are everywhere! Great session, dinner and bed. We got on the game field today and had a short, high-energy session. The boys are ready for tomorrows 2:00 EST (12:00 MST) kickoff vs the Kentucky Wildcats. Link to Tournament and streaming info
The Lobo Soccer Twitter Account will be the best way to follow the action if you aren’t watching the live stream. Lobo Soccer Twitter Link
We are focused, rested and ready for tomorrow. Thanks for all your support. GO LOBOS!
FISH
November 3, 2016
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER: SENIOR NIGHT FRIDAY
Lobo Faithful,
Final regular season match and senior night tomorrow, Friday, November 4th, 7:00 PM at the Lobo Soccer Complex.
Seniors Chris Wehan, Chris Gurule, Nick Rochowski, Josh Goss and Niko Hansen will play their final regular season match as Lobos. Five young men who have given their all representing the State of New Mexico and the Lobos. Couldn’t be prouder of all they’ve accomplished and the men they have become. Senior night presentation prior to kickoff.
LOBOS VS OLD DOMINION, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH, 7:00 PM
LOBO SOCCER COMPLEX
Look forward to seeing everyone and thanks for all your support. The boys are playing extremely well and tomorrow night will be a high-paced, exciting match. Off to Huntington, West Virginia early Monday morning for the Conference-USA Tournament. Pack the stands and send the boys off in style! GO LOBOS!
FISH
October 20, 2016
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER: CHALLENGING STRETCH, OVERTIME NOT GOING OUR WAY
Lobo Faithful:
The plan was to skip Mondays Lobo Faithful and bring good news today. Tough match last Saturday on the road vs Florida Atlantic University. The trip into Ft. Lauderdale went smoothly and the boys were ready. FAU is a challenging team; inconsistent in terms of results, with several very talented attacking players. We got ahold of the game early and the vast majority of play took place in the FAU half. We were real happy with the opportunities we created, but failed to find the net in the opening half. We continued to find openings as the second half progressed and it seemed like only a matter of time before we would be rewarded. In the 72nd minute FAU was awarded a direct kick 40 yards from our goal. We lost a mark, diving header and we found ourselves down 0-1 with 18 minutes on the clock. We battled and really upped the tempo. With just under 3 minutes remaining in the match, Luke Lawrence found the equalizer to put us into overtime. Great chance early in overtime, but no finish. 2 minutes into the first overtime, FAU found the ball on their left flank in transition. Shot from outside the box, our GK was screened and the bouncing ball found the far post. Really tough 1-2 loss in a match we statistically dominated: 21-8 shots, 16-2 corners….the game was played in the FAU half. FAU Re-Cap
Early Sunday return flight to Albuquerque and back on the road Tuesday late morning to play #9 ranked Denver University Wednesday night. I was really proud of the players reaction to the FAU loss and their focussed preparation for a tough match vs a familiar foe. Denver was undefeated on the season and playing with a lot of confidence. Crisp evening and a very fast playing surface. The first half was fairly even with both sides playing it safe and giving up few openings. 0-0 after the opening 45, but we liked how we were playing. 6 minutes into the second half and Denver drew first blood. Cross from deep on the right flank slipped across the box and great far post finish from 18 yards. We had to up the tempo and chase the game. We got ahold of things and played some inspired soccer the next 38 minutes. With 65 seconds on the clock we found the equalizer. Nick Rochowski with the finish inside the box. Overtime! The first 10 minute overtime was fairly uneventful. We opened the second 10 minute overtime strong and Luke Lawrence had a great look, but was denied by a tremendous save by the DU keeper. With 15 seconds remaining in the match, Denver won a corner. As the clock ticked down, a service into the box and our defender went up to challenge. Deflection and a harmless looking ball floated towards our GK….looked like a disappointing tie. Not sure what happened, why….the ball slipped through Jason’s hands and across the goal line. 8 seconds on the clock and a gut wrenching overtime defeat. Not sure what to say, how to explain….a very good performance vs another “Top 10” opponent on the road. We had more possession, more shots, but didn’t find our moment! Hard to look the boys in the eyes after this one. A special group looking for answers. Denver Re-Cap
Four Conference matches remain, 3 of the 4 at home. Marshall University this Saturday at 1:00. We will re-group, focus and play our hearts out for the Lobo Faithful. Looking for moral victories during this tough stretch and feeling the pain. Thanks for all your support and see you this Saturday! GO LOBOS!
FISH
October 3, 2016
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER: IN THE THICK OF THINGS!
Lobo Faithful,
Tough night in Charlotte! We dodged Hurricane Matthew, managed the travel, prepared meticulously for a “Top 20” opponent….yet gave away “openings” to a quality team. Sitting here in the office early morning after a disappointing trip and result, one can only focus on the next match and learn from our experiences thus far. We have a wonderful and driven group….good times ahead! After two convincing home results, we were ready for #17 UNCC. We had our tactics right, were rested, excited and firing on all cylinders. Two first half goals off uncharacteristic mistakes and ensuing penalty kicks was not how we anticipated the match opening. As expected from this team, we never let down, re-grouped at halftime and came out firing with an early second half goal, with good chances to even the score the last 35 minutes of the match. Really disappointing 1-2 loss to a quality team. No excuses. Only ourselves to blame for this one! Match Re-Cap
Keeping things upbeat and in perspective, is our program’s continued academic achievement. Lobo Men’s Soccer just received the NSCAA Team Academic Award for the 13th time in the past 14 seasons. We have had 19 players named Academic All-American over the past 14 years. This is the most of any men’s soccer program in the country in all divisions of the NCAA. Really proud of our players’ commitment to excellence in the classroom, community and playing field! Website Article
Next match on the road vs Florida Atlantic this Saturday. We will be ready! Thanks for all your support and GO LOBOS!
FISH
October 3, 2016
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER: FINDING THE NET … INTO THE EYE OF THE HURRICANE!
Lobo Faithful,
WE PLAY FOR YOU AND THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO! Lobo Soccer continues to build momentum as we head into a HURRICANE….literally and figuratively. Great performance last night vs. a very talented Loyola Marymount. Really proud of our leadership, preparation, focus, intensity, unity and offensive output! All 25 players are “ALL IN”. Everyone makes us better, cares about one another and works their a$$ off! Love this team! After a big conference win Friday, last nights match vs LMU had all the trappings for “complacency”…were the boys going to remain focused for a non-conference match, over-confident coming off Friday’s big win over Florida International, thinking ahead to Saturdays match vs Conference-USA leading UNC Charlotte……not the case. The entire squad was ready from the get go. Energized warm-up and we opened the match with quality, creating early chances and carrying the run of play. Should have put 2-3 chances in the net the first 25 minutes and then hit a bit of a lull the last 20. Good response at halftime and re-focused after hitting upon a few key points. 3 goals in the opening 10 minutes of the second half and all Lobos! Rochowski, Hansen and Herrera all with finishes. Great defense for 90 minutes and our 5th clean sheet. Well done boys! Re-cap and Highlights
Now for the “Hurricane” part of the story. We depart for Charlotte, NC Friday morning for a 7:00 pm Saturday match. Hurricane Matthew is hammering the east coast….#15 UNC Charlotte is “on fire” and leading Conference-USA. We are heading into a Hurricane….literally and figuratively. Checking the weather this morning (using my amateur meteorology skills), it appears Matthew has deviated from his initial path and Charlotte will miss out on the heavy rains. Fingers crossed, we are planning for good weather Saturday night and a tremendous match. The team will be fresh, prepared and ready for the challenge ahead. Thanks for all your support and GO LOBOS!
FISH
October 3, 2016
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER … FINDING THE NET!
Lobo Faithful,
Quick turnaround this week….boys are recovered, excited and ready to GET IT ON! Big game tomorrow night vs Loyola Marymount, 7:00 PM at the Lobo Soccer Complex. Friday nights Conference-USA home opener vs Florida International was all we could ask for…..dynamic play on both sides of the ball and key attacking performances from players we need points from. 4-1 victory over a very talented FIU squad. We came out firing on all cylinders and never looked back. Two goals to open from Chris Wehan…big time finishes and exciting to see Chris come alive in front of the net. Niko Hansen got the third with a far post blast from the top of the box and Luke Lawrence the fourth via a pinpoint pass from Sam Gleadle. 4-0 Lobos, with FIU finding a late one to ruin our clean sheet. Final 4-1 Lobos. Sure nice to score goals! Video link to goals and game write-up: Match Re-Cap
LOBOS VS LOYOLA MARYMOUNT
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4TH, 7:00 PM
LOBO SOCCER COMPLEX
We play a rare Tuesday night match vs non-conference foe, Loyola Marymount, tomorrow night. LMU is coming off a thrilling 4-3 victory over Santa Barbara. This will be an explosive, attack oriented match. Don’t miss this one! I really like our boys focus, cohesiveness and desire for constant improvement. Ready for tomorrow night! Thanks for all your support and GO LOBOS!
FISH
September 28, 2016
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER … CHALLENGE TO KEEP THE STREAK ALIVE, TOUGH ONE IN THE BLUEGRASS STATE
Lobo Faithful,
After five straight victories and carrying momentum into our Conference-USA opener vs Kentucky, the ball didn’t bounce our way. Smooth trip into Lexington, KY (actually flew into Louisville and drove 90 minutes) and the boys were well prepared, focussed and excited to kick-off Conference play. Coaches Graczyk and Souders nailed the scouting report and we were ready for the Wildcats’ style of play: physical, direct, “defend first” mentality and a bit of quality in the attack. Beautiful stadium and the game management staff was outstanding.…the people at UK are really proud of their athletic program, total “buy in” and first class operation. 7:05 kickoff and both teams playing it safe to open. Five minutes in and Kentucky scored on what appeared to be a deflected shot from the top of the box. A goal you finish one out of 100 times. No panic and we went about our business. The game settled and we started to find our rhythm and really dominate play in the later stages of the opening half. Great chance by Sam Gleadle in the waning seconds. 0-1 heading into intermission. We came out “En Fuego” the second half. After 10 minutes, a goal seemed right around the corner. Our pressure, ball speed and chances continued throughout the half. All the action in Kentucky’s half and we were feeling good. Two goals called off for offsides and we did everything but put the ball in the net. What a disappointing result going down 0-1 to a quality opponent, in a match we dominated. Need to take our chances….need to score goals to win games.Kentucky Re-Cap
No looking back….great games ahead. Our Conference-USA home opener is this Friday night vs Florida International. Dynamic opponent and excellent match-up for us. Two “soccer playing” teams and this should be an exciting one!
LOBOS VS FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 7:00 PM
LOBO SOCCER COMPLEX
We will be ready Friday night and need your energy in the stands! Thanks for all your support and exciting times ahead. GO LOBOS!
FISH
September 21, 2016
NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER … THE BOYS ARE ROLLING!
Lobo Faithful,
University of New Mexico Lobo Soccer is ROLLING! The boys are playing extremely well and are passionate about improving every day! It’s a pleasure being around such a committed and driven group. We just returned from Southern California and a single match vs University of California Irvine. This trip was easy compared to what lies ahead. More challenging getting to Lexington, KY and Charlotte, NC. We arrived Friday afternoon and kicked-off at 8:00 pm Saturday night. Late start, but the team was prepared, focussed and sharp! 3-1 win in a balanced performance. Re-cap. 3-goal performance from Niko Hansen. His first was really well taken and the 2nd and 3rd were the result of great teammates (and well taken). For his efforts, Niko was named College Soccer News National Player of the Week. The entire team is deserving and more will be asked of our attacking group moving forward, as defenses get better and better.
After opening the season vs two very physical and organized “top 10” opponents, we have gotten back on track with 5 consecutive wins over good, but not great opponents. We can’t be naive in thinking Conference-USA play will come easy. We open this Sunday in Lexington vs an excellent Kentucky team. Physical, direct, disciplined with a special attacking player. Our boys need to be focussed on this game, not the past or what lies ahead. We will know quite a bit more about ourselves after this weekend. I’m excited for our preparation and the challenge ahead. Thanks for all your support and see you back at home Friday, September 30th vs Florida International. GO LOBOS!
FISH
September 14, 2016
NEW MEXICO SOCCER ON A ROLL! CHECK OUT THE GAMEWINNING GOALS…
Lobo Faithful,
University of New Mexico Soccer is locking it down! Can’t say enough about our team’s leadership, resilience, camaraderie, passion and drive. After a tough opening weekend (Indiana currently #4 in the country and ND #2), we’ve won four straight, all shutouts and our energy continues to grow. We are creating chances and playing some “Big Time” D! The best defense, is a good offense. We are possessing the ball, controlling the midfield, keeping our opponents on their heels and dictating the rhythm of the game. Like this group!
This past weekend was the Grange and Ashwill Memorial Invitational. Michael Grange, Michelle Grange, Tom Ashwill and Donna Ashwill (parents of Pat and Ben), were recognized at midfield prior to Friday nights match. It was wonderful to acknowledge their sons’ contributions and let them know that Pat and Ben are always with us. The boys were ready to go from the kickoff Friday night vs Cal State Bakersfield. 3200+ in the stands, beautiful evening and great atmosphere. Bakersfield was really good….we got their best match of the season and the fans witnessed 90 minutes of quality soccer….actually 109 minutes and 32 seconds. We created chances, but couldn’t find the net in regulation. Talk about coming down to the wire. This was a game we deserved to win, but a tie looked to be the outcome. 38 seconds remaining in the second 10 minute overtime and GK Jason Beaulieu with a huge punt landing just outside the CSUB 18. Niko Hansen with a bit of magic and with 28 seconds left in the match, Niko found the winner. 1-0 Lobos. You need to have a look at this one! Hansen Game Winner and Match Re-cap
Sunday’s match vs Grand Canyon had an ominous beginning. Rain and lightning caused kickoff to be delayed an hour. We got rolling at 7:00 and the boys kept their focus throughout the wait. Good out the gate, but hats off to Grand Canyon. Great defense and another gutsy performance from a visiting team. Pretty even match the first 45, but we starting getting a hold of things in the second half and found the net in the 54th minute. Niko Hansen again with what would prove to be the game winner (Hansen’s second match winner of the weekend). This was a world class goal…have a look Hansen Game Winner and Match Re-cap
With the GCU win, came the Tournament title with Hansen being named Tournament MVP/Offensive MVP and Tom Smart named Defensive MVP. Chris Gurule and Jason Beaulieu joined Niko and Tom on the All-Tournament team.
We are off to Southern California this weekend to face UC Irvine Saturday night. Playing a single match will allow the boys to get their legs back, as we enter Conference-USA play the following weekend vs the #10 ranked University of Kentucky Wildcats on the road. Ready for Conference play and the accompanying challenges. Love this team! Thanks for all your support and see you back home on September 30th vs Florida International. GO LOBOS!
FISH
September 7, 2016
BIG HOME WEEKEND, COMING OFF TWO WINS!
Lobo Faithful,
Last weekend was a big one for us. Two convincing wins, two shutouts and the boys are finding their form! Our defense has yet to give up a goal in the run of play and we are becoming more dynamic and fluid in attack. I really love this group! Unified, hard-working, tough and empathetic…..they really care about one another, a rare quality amongst competitive athletes these days. Friday night’s 2-0 win over a quality Northridge team was highlighted by one of our “all-time” best opening halves of soccer. The first 45 minutes was fantastic on both sides of the ball. We debuted our new turquoise uniforms….New Mexico Pride! Fun team to watch! Northridge Re-Cap
The boys were disciplined with their recovery after the match Friday night and again on Saturday. Full of energy and prepared for Sunday’s match vs a very talented Cal Poly. A very comprehensive performance rewarded with another 2-0 win. With the 6 points (3 points for a win), we captured the TLC Plumbing and Utility Invitational Championship. Cal Poly Re-Cap
Another challenging home weekend ahead of us, as we host The Grange and Ashwill Memorial Invitational. Patrick Grange and Ben Ashwill were Lobo Soccer greats who departed much too soon. I think of them often….tough one to swallow, but a reminder to make the most of every day and make an impact on the lives of others. We open with Cal State Bakersfield this Friday at 7:00 and play Grand Canyon Sunday at 6:00. Missouri State is the neutral and open the tournament vs GCU Friday at 4:00 pm.
Link to the tournament, teams, media and coverage
LOBOS VS BAKERSFIELD FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9TH, 7:00 PM
GRANGE AND ASHWILL MEMORIAL INVITATIONAL
LOBOS VS GRAND CANYON, SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 11TH, 6:00 PM
Thanks for all your support and see you this weekend. GO LOBOS!
FISH
August 31, 2016
THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO LOBO SOCCER HOME OPENER AND OPENING WEEKEND RECAP
Lobo Faithful,
The University of New Mexico Lobo Soccer season is off with a BANG! NO HIDING THIS YEAR. Early challenges against two “Top 15” teams on the road: #12 Indiana and #9 Notre Dame. Tough go of things. We fought, played well, created chances, but came out on the wrong side in both contests. 1-0 losses, both games decided by penalty kicks, with our boys playing very well. We could have very well returned home with two victories. We opened with Indiana on Friday night. An even match with the Lobos creating the better of the chances. 30 seconds left in regulation and the official made a really harsh call on an unintentional hand ball in the box. Not a call you see often in the waning minutes of a tight match. Well taken by the Hoosier and 0-1 hard fought defeat to an excellent team: Box Score
Real proud of the boys’ effort, resiliency and focus going into Sunday’s match vs the #9 Fighting Irish. 2:00 pm scheduled kickoff delayed four hours due to nearby lightning. We kept our focus and dealt well with adversity. Quite a match! Great opening and 39 excellent minutes. In the 40th minute, we committed a foul against the run of play at the edge of the penalty box. Official pointed to the PK spot and we found ourselves down a goal with 50 minutes remaining in regulation. Tremendous second half from the Lobos. A very convincing performance over 90 minutes, doing everything but finding the net. Lobos with 18-6 advantage in shots, 13-5 advantage in corner kicks, thwarted by some tremendous GK play from ND. Soccer is a cruel game and matches against top opponents are decided my little moments and decisions. Website Article
HOME OPENER THIS FRIDAY NIGHT AT 7:00 PM VS NORTHRIDGE
AND
LOBOS VS CAL POLY SUNDAY AT 6:00 PM
We play our home opener this Friday night vs Cal State Northridge in the second match of the 2016 TLC Plumbing and Utility Invitational. Cal Poly and Air Force play the first match at 4:00 pm. I am really impressed with our team. 17 match regular season, 15 to go and good times ahead! Hope everyone can come out for Friday’s 7:00 pm match and again on Sunday at 6:00 pm vs Cal Poly.
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Thanks for all your support and GO LOBOS!
FISH
August 16, 2016
2016 UNDERWAY: QUALITY PERFORMANCE VS UNLV IN EXHIBITION PLAY!
Lobo Faithful,
One week into preseason and the team is quickly taking shape! Tremendous leadership from our five seniors, very unified and everyone excited for what lies ahead! First of three exhibitions last night at the Lobo Soccer Complex vs the Rebels of UNLV. Our boys came out firing, putting two in the back of the net in the first 20 minutes. Niko Hansen with the brace. In the waning moments of the first half, Sam Gleadle found the net to make it 3-0 Lobos. After 90 fast paced minutes, the score remained, as our defense stayed focused and secured the shutout. A well-rounded performance with everyone seeing minutes. UNLV Re-Cap
Recovery day today, video and training tomorrow….back at it early Thursday, with a 10:00 am exhibition vs Fort Lewis College. We finish up our preseason and exhibition slate 7:00 pm this Saturday night vs the Washington Huskies at the Lobo Soccer Complex. Two more challenging tests prior to opening the season in South Bend, Indiana vs the #15 Indiana Hoosiers and #10 Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Thanks for your support. GO LOBOS!
FISH
July 22, 2016
READY TO GET THINGS ROLLING…NEED YOUR SUPPORT TO ACHIEVE EXCELLENCE!
Lobo Faithful,
The days have flown by and pre-season is right around the corner. I love our team and our players passion and drive to achieve excellence in everything they do! We have a tremendous schedule this fall and don’t shy away from playing the top competition in the country: 8 NCAA teams from 2015 on the schedule and we open on the road vs former national champions and nationally ranked Indiana University and Notre Dame. 2016 Lobo Soccer Schedule Our goal is to be the BEST and to accomplish this, you have to play the best!
I can’t tell you how proud I am of our players; former and current, and their commitment to excellence in the classroom, in the community and on the playing field. Chris Wehan named to Hermann Trophy watch list (top 30 players in the country nominated) The goal of Lobo Soccer, is to run the most COMPREHENSIVE AND SUCCESSFUL program in the country: TOTAL DEVELOPMENT OF OUR PLAYERS AND OUTSTANDING REPRESENTATION OF OUR UNIVERSITY, CITY AND STATE. Josh Dye and Adrian Mora, last years seniors, are currently employed locally as engineers (electrical and civil), Andrew Parsons is back at UNM as an orthopedic surgical resident, Simon Ejdemyr is finishing up his Ph.D at Stanford University in Political Science, Victor Rodriguez is working for Child Protective Services here in Albuquerque, Jon Weaver is a medical resident in anesthesiology in Syracuse, NY, James Urbany is a licensed social worker living in Albuquerque working for the public schools as a liaison for homeless children with a masters degree from NMSU, Chris Wright is entering his third year of medical school in Austin, Texas after a professional playing career in Germany, Lars Loseth is running a daily newspaper in Oslo, Norway, Eric Bagwell lives in New York City and works as an urban planner with a masters degree from NYU ……15 former players living out their dreams as professional soccer players…the list goes on and on. Lobo Soccer is developing incredible young men who are impacting our community, are making a difference across the country and around the world. We are passionate about achieving our potential in everything we do.
This being said, we have to fundraise a minimum of $80,000 this year to cover current operating expenses. Not fun, not expected, but this is our reality. You have been a tremendous supporter of Lobo Soccer and have made a significant impact on our ability to support our players in their pursuit of excellence. Here is our booster club brochure: 2016 Golden Goal Club Brochure 100% of money raised goes directly to our program. I am committed to keeping our players dreams alive and will raise the necessary funding. Please feel free to contact me directly with questions regarding ways you can support Lobo Soccer. Exciting times ahead! Exhibition match vs UNLV August 15th 7:00 pm at home. GO LOBOS!
FISH
For more Fish Blog entries dating back to 2008, visit our new Fish Blog Archive!