By Staff Writer: Erika Hernandez
Not everyone may know this, but New Mexico has its very own semi-professional indoor arena soccer team—the New Mexico Runners. Now in their sixth season, the team recently welcomed a new head coach, Brian Weems, bringing a fresh perspective and renewed hope to the organization. Since their inception, the Runners have never had a winning season, and optimism for a turnaround had been slim—until recently.
This past weekend, the Runners faced off against their longtime rivals, the Wichita Wings, at the Rio Rancho Events Center. Though they fell short with a 10-8 loss, the game was a step in the right direction. The last time the Runners played the Wings, they suffered a 15-6 defeat, making this closer score a sign of improvement. With a new coach at the wheel and a team showing resilience, fans are beginning to feel a sense of optimism for the future.
The Runners are not just another sports team—they are a part of New Mexico’s soccer scene. As the state’s first-ever Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) team, they have played a key role in bringing indoor soccer to a wider audience. The organization was founded with a strong commitment to building community engagement and creating a family-friendly sports experience. Owner and founder Andres Trujillo has been at the head of this effort, working alongside his family to grow the franchise. His mother and sister manage ticketing operations, while his wife, Kathryn, serves as the co-owner and Game Operations Coordinator, ensuring that each home game runs smoothly and that the team remains active in the community.
Trujillo’s passion for local sports began during his time at ESPN Radio in Rio Rancho, where he gained valuable experience in sports media. His enthusiasm for the industry led him to invest in various local teams, including New Mexico’s indoor football team, the Duke City Gladiators, and the former Albuquerque Sol soccer team. His dedication to nurturing local sports continues to shape the New Mexico Runners, who are determined to establish themselves as a competitive force in the MASL.
As the season progresses, fans eagerly await the team’s next matchup, hoping that the Runners’ recent performance is just the beginning of a promising turnaround.