LAS CRUCES, N.M. (KRQE) – While UNM cut its men’s soccer program, New Mexico State University is announcing its own. It’s not a traditional college team; it’s an academy that will train soccer players to help advance their careers.

This is the first time this British program is expanding to the United States, and they’ve chosen NMSU.

The exceptional weather, a wide array of academic programs and the popularity of soccer in our region are among the reasons why University Degrees Abroad chose New Mexico State.

UDA is a program in the UK matching students with universities that meet their needs. This will be the first time UDA Soccer has started a program in the United States.

“It’ll provide coaches for training and other methods to help them improve their soccer skills,” said Justin Bannister, a spokesperson for NMSU.

UDA Soccer is not an NCAA team. It’s a program that will allow men to pursue a career as a professional soccer player, while also getting a degree.

“I think it’s a good move. I think it’s a smart move,” said Mike Edwards with the Albuquerque Soccer League.

Edwards believes the sport’s popularity will continue rising.

“People have seen what New Mexico United has generated and it’s probably opened some eyes,” said Edwards.

And something like this is bound to shine a light on some of New Mexico’s local talent and the surrounding areas.

As part of the agreement with New Mexico State, UDA will cover all the costs associated with the program. NMSU will offer space and support for the program, but will not fund any of it. UDA has a goal of recruiting 50 new students to their program over the first three years.