UNM Lobo Women's Soccer Signs Six New Players to 2027 Roster

The University of New Mexico women’s soccer program is looking toward the future, announcing on Wednesday that head coach Karley Nelson has signed six student-athletes to the fall 2027 roster.

The incoming class, which spans talent from Washington, New Mexico, Texas, and Canada, includes four midfielders, a defender, and a goalkeeper.

For a program aiming to sustain its competitive edge, the arrival of these players represents a strategic investment in the team’s long-term culture. According to the official athletics website, the new signees are Ella Brinkerhoff, Mia Carr, Maika Proulx, Kasey Sandoval, Reese Stanley, and Lauren Sullivan.

Building Through Defensive and Local Talent

The defensive line gains a significant addition in Ella Brinkerhoff, a center back from Prosper, Texas. Brinkerhoff brings a track record of high-stakes play, including a 2024 UIL 6A State Championship title. Her transition to collegiate play is supported by a consistent academic record, having maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout her high school career.

Local representation remains a priority for the coaching staff, evidenced by the signing of Kasey Sandoval. A standout from Albuquerque’s Volcano Vista High School, Sandoval brings a prolific offensive history with 99 goals and 60 assists to her name. Her connection to the university runs deep; she will be the second generation of her family to attend the institution, following her mother, Carolyn Sandoval.

International Depth and Midfield Versatility

The Lobos are expanding their reach into Canada, securing two key players with significant international experience. Maika Proulx, a goalkeeper from Terrebonne, Québec, arrives with a resume that includes five consecutive RSEQ championships and recognition as a provincial player of the year. Joining her is Lauren Sullivan, a midfielder from London, Ontario, who led her league in scoring during the 2025 and 2026 seasons.

The midfield is further bolstered by the addition of Mia Carr and Reese Stanley, both hailing from Washington. Carr, a product of Eastside FC, brings experience from the ECNL National Playoffs, while Stanley arrives as a Washington State 4A champion. Stanley’s leadership experience is particularly notable, as she was the first sophomore in her high school’s history to be named team captain.

“Each brings a unique set of qualities that will make us better, both on and off the field. They embody the character, competitiveness, and commitment to excellence that we value in our program, said Karley Nelson, head coach of the New Mexico Lobos.”

The Economic and Academic Stakes

Beyond the pitch, these signings highlight the intersection of collegiate athletics and academic commitment. All six incoming student-athletes have expressed clear intentions to pursue degrees in rigorous fields, ranging from business to exercise science and nursing. This focus on long-term career development mirrors the broader trend in Division I athletics where student-athletes are increasingly prioritizing degree utility alongside performance metrics.

While the excitement surrounding this recruitment class is palpable, the practical test for these athletes will begin once they step on campus. The challenge of integrating six distinct playing styles—honed in varied club and regional environments—into a unified, cohesive squad remains the primary hurdle for Nelson and her staff as they prepare for the 2027 season.

For now, the roster additions provide a clear snapshot of the program’s current recruiting priorities: defensive stability, local engagement, and a willingness to look across international borders to find talent that fits a specific, high-performance culture. The success of this transition will be measured not just by wins, but by how effectively these individuals adapt to the demands of the collegiate level.