New Mexico State University made history one kick at a time with their new women’s soccer team.

Michael Needham, NMSU Women’s soccer head coach, was hired at the university in November 2008 and dove right into the recruiting process, even making home visits on his drive across country from George Mason University, where he was an assistant soccer coach. Michael signed 21 student-athletes to the roster, each one signing a National Letter of Intent to attend NMSU and compete in the fall of 2009.

In only its first year of existence, the New Mexico State soccer team ranked number 49 in the TopDrawerSoccer.com Women’s Tournament 64 Rankings. The Aggies also posted their longest winning streak of the season – five matches. The soccer team won their first conference road contest at Fresno State, and since Sept. 4, the Aggies have won eight of its last 11 matches including the first tie in school history, collecting four shutouts in the season and playing in five overtime matches with a 2-2-1 record.

In May, Michael announced the inaugural women’s soccer schedule for the 2009 season. The program’s first schedule was packed with solid non-conference competition, nine home matches and chances to compete in some marquee environments.