The three Academy standouts are now eligible to play in first-team matches
ALBUQUERQUE, NM - New Mexico United is thrilled to announce the Academy Contract signings of forward Alex Waggoner, midfielder Miles Merritt, and midfielder Andres Robles. These three young New Mexicans are making the jump after incredible, standout Academy performances in 2022. They are now eligible to play in first-team matches during the 2023 USL Championship season, while also maintaining their amateur eligibility.
“We are excited to sign Miles, Andres, and Alex who consistently exemplify our ethos,” said United Head Coach/Technical Director Zach Prince. “This has earned them the opportunity to sign Academy contracts for the 2023 season. This is a testament not only to the players, but the Academy staff as well. The improvement we’ve seen in our Academy this year has been a massive step in the right direction. We have not only made a positive impact on the field, but also in the classroom and the community. These three players have set the standard for the Academy in all of these areas and we look forward to seeing their continued progress.”
Waggoner joined the United Academy last season after incredible success at the high school level. Despite an injury early in his United career, Waggoner rallied to become a force for the Academy - earning the Golden Boot at the USL Academy Playoff Tournament with six goals and three assists. His efforts also earned him the 2022 Offensive MVP Award for the United Academy.
'Alex Waggoner has shown he is a consistent goal-scoring threat at the Academy level,” said Prince. “He is committed to being a leader on both sides of the ball with his willingness to press defensively. He has an opportunity to make a massive step in his game this year. We are very excited to help him progress in his young career.”
Merritt has been an incredible builder and distributor in the United midfield. He joined the United Academy in August of 2021, and has been a leader ever since. During the 2022 season, Merritt’s calmness under pressure helped the Academy to a fifth-place finish in the nation, and earned Merritt All-Tournament honors at the USL Academy Playoffs.
“Miles Merritt has shown the most improvement over the last 12 to 16 months in our Academy program,” said Prince. “His comfort level on the ball has remained consistent and is still improving while he has taken the biggest step defensively. He has added an ability to press as a central midfielder and break up play. Coupling that with his ability on the ball, I am thrilled to see how he approaches the challenge of competing with professionals every day.”
Robles was the tenth signing in the history of the United Academy in February, 2021. Since that time, he has become a staple with the club, earning more minutes played than any player in Academy history. In addition, Robles earned the callup to the United U-23 roster in 2022, and was a key figure in the USL League Two side’s inaugural success. Robles earned an Academy Contract in 2021, as well, and is no stranger to training with the United First Team.
“Andres Robles is one of the founding players of our Academy,” said Prince. “He has all the tools to be a top midfielder. Helping him have a similar personality with the first team that he has with the Academy is key for Andres. Being with the first team everyday will allow him to show his quality more often at the professional level. I am excited to help Andres reach a different level in his game during the 2023 season.”
These three players are eligible to train with the first team, and compete for matchday roster spots immediately. Robles and Merritt can be made available for media interviews, via Zoom, upon request.
About New Mexico United
New Mexico United, the state’s first professional soccer franchise, brings the most popular sport in the world home to the Land of Enchantment. Fueled by a passion for community, New Mexico United’s promise is to provide a platform that brings New Mexicans together for a unique sporting experience, celebrating the unity and excitement inherent in world-class soccer. www.newmexicoutd.com