New Mexico United and New Mexico 811 have proudly announced the first players to join their U-23 team, marking a historic moment for the club. Homegrown talents Josh Baros, Josiah Henderson, and Nate Slota, all hailing from Albuquerque and graduates of the United Academy, are the pioneering athletes to be named to the U-23 roster.
“I am incredibly excited to welcome these New Mexico natives back home for our very first U-23 season,” stated U-23 Head Coach Luke Sanford. “These young men have been outstanding representatives of our state during their initial college years, and we anticipate their continued success and making us proud as we compete across New Mexico this summer.”
Josh Baros holds the distinction of being the first-ever signing for the New Mexico United Academy back in January 2021. After a successful season leading the Academy team, Baros continued his soccer journey at the University of Tulsa for his freshman year. A Valley High School alumnus and a long-time player with Rio Rapids Youth Academy, Baros brings a wealth of local experience and talent to the U-23 squad.
Nate Slota was the seventh player to sign with the New Mexico United Academy, also in January 2021. Following the first half of the 2021 season with the United Academy, Slota joined Rhodes College for his freshman year. His college debut was impressive, conceding only four goals in six games and making 19 crucial saves. Slota’s achievements include winning a state title with Albuquerque High School and playing youth soccer with Rio Rapids, showcasing his strong local roots and goalkeeping prowess.
Josiah Henderson, the sixteenth signing for the New Mexico United Academy in March 2021, also joins the U-23 team. After graduating from the United Academy in 2021, Henderson transitioned to Colorado Mesa University, where he made 17 appearances in his debut season, contributing with one goal and one assist. An Albuquerque High graduate and state champion, Henderson’s youth soccer career was also shaped at Rio Rapids, highlighting the strong Albuquerque soccer community contributing to the New Mexico United U-23 team.
The New Mexico United U-23 team is set to compete in the Mountain Division during the 2022 season. Further details regarding the Mountain Division schedule will be announced shortly on the USL League Two website and their social media platforms. Fans are encouraged to follow these channels for updates on game schedules and to support these young talents as they represent New Mexico on the field.
