BREAKING NEWS: ROB BAARTS OUT AT NM STATE - THANK YOU COACH BAARTS!

LAS CRUCES, N.M. — November 12, 2026 In a stunning development for New Mexico State women's soccer, head coach Rob Baarts is out after NM State Athletics announced Thursday that his contract will not be renewed, bringing an end to his eight-year tenure leading the Aggies. But perhaps just as surprising as the announcement itself is the timing. The decision reportedly came as a shock to players within the program. Nobody expected this. Just 48 hours ago, the Aggies were competing in the semi-finals of the Conference USA Tournament, capping off a season that saw the program reach the conference tournament's final stages. Their season ultimately came to an end against the No.1 seed Liberty, with the outcome decided in a penalty-kick shootout, 4-3. For players who had just experienced the intensity and emotion of competing for a conference championship, Thursday's announcement represented an unexpected turn of events. The transition now leaves players, families and the Aggie soccer community facing questions about the program's future and what comes next. A DECISION FROM THE ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT According to the university's announcement, NM State Director of Athletics Joe Fields said the decision followed an evaluation of the program's performance over the past two seasons. "After careful evaluation of the program over the past two seasons, I believe this is the appropriate time for a transition and a new direction for the program," Fields stated. Fields also acknowledged Baarts' contributions, thanking him for his service, dedication and commitment to NM State student-athletes. The university confirmed that a national search will begin to identify the program's next head coach. A LEGACY THAT INCLUDED CHAMPIONSHIPS Baarts leaves behind a significant chapter in Aggie soccer history. During his eight seasons in Las Cruces, he established himself as the winningest head coach in NM State women's soccer history, recording 61 career victories. His accomplishments included leading the Aggies to the 2022 Western Athletic Conference Tournament championship and a historic 2023 campaign that produced the program's first Conference USA regular-season championship. That 2023 season also brought individual recognition, with Baarts earning Conference USA Coach of the Year honors. His tenure helped establish New Mexico State as a competitive presence in the conference and brought championship-level expectations to the program. WHAT HAPPENS TO THE AGGIES NOW? While the university begins its search for a new head coach, the immediate focus shifts to the student-athletes who now face an unexpected coaching transition. Recruiting, player retention, returning leadership and the direction of the program will all become important considerations in the weeks ahead. For Baarts, his departure closes a chapter that included 61 victories, conference championships and a place in the program's record books. For the players, however, the news comes at a particularly difficult time — just days removed from competing for a conference championship and seemingly preparing for what comes next under the same coaching leadership. One thing is certain: New Mexico State women's soccer is entering a new era, and the questions surrounding that transition are only beginning. Baarts recruited El Paso: Seven El Paso athletes currently on the Aggies' 2026 roster - Bella Morgas (Andress, 2024), Ainsleigh Thomson (Franklin, 2025), Dolce Escorza (Franklin, 2025), Emma O'Neill (El Paso HS, 2023), Azalie Floriano (Eastlake, 2023), Daniela Portillo (Montwood, 2024) and Arleth Arroyo (Andress, 2025). "Rob Baarts is a class coach and, more importantly, someone who has always been genuine and straightforward. He never sugarcoats anything and makes sure athletes know exactly where they stand. You always know where you stand with Rob, and I think that's something athletes and families should value. He has become a prominent fixture in the El Paso–Las Cruces soccer community, bringing a new vision, perspective and passion to the game. Throughout his time in the region, he has helped, challenged and inspired countless athletes to elevate their game and pursue opportunities to compete at the collegiate level, regardless of division. His impact extends beyond wins and losses. He's helped athletes recognize their potential, understand what it takes to compete at the next level and believe that those opportunities are within reach. Rob has made a difference in this soccer community, and that impact should never be overlooked." — Jesse Tovar CEO, PREP1 LLC | PREP1 Network PREP1 NETWORK | ALL ATHLETES. ALL SPORTS. ALL IN.