In May, New Mexico United announced the High-Performance Program (H.P.P) for youth soccer players. The H.P.P is for both male and female players, age 12 to 17. The intention of the program is to provide supplemental instruction and competitive opportunities for the state’s top talent. Anna Swanson is the second selected player for this program.

"Anna sets the standard for what hard work looks like in this state. She is a very creative player going forward on the ball. On top of that, the hard work and humility she brings to training everyday sets her apart from anyone else on the field." said coach and Director of H.P.P, Zach Prince.

Assistant Coach Zach Prince directs the program, which began with three viewing sessions in the month of June. Up to 100 players were at each of the viewing sessions, and of the 300 prospects, up to 60 will be chosen for the H.P.P. The viewing sessions were open to all players that meet the age requirements.

Every player selected for the program will receive a full scholarship, meaning there is no cost to participate for the player’s family.

"...when you go to watch her play, she is a very dynamic player. [Anna] is the type of player that is excellent in 1v1 situations. She knows where the goal is and how to create goals for herself and for her teammates, "said Head Coach Troy Lesesne. "You see her work ethic and her ability to be relentless in the way that she defends as well, she is very difficult to bypass. Those are some of the characteristics that popped up when she came into the High-Performance Program."

The first training session took place last month, with a total of 10 sessions in 2019, leading up to competitive events in 2020. Each two-hour session will be coached by Prince, and players from New Mexico United’s first team. All viewing and training sessions will take place at the team's training facilities.

For more information on the Youth High-Performance Program, please click here.