WMLIS Welcomes Albuquerque, New Mexico as Newest Expansion City

CHICAGO, Ill. (December 19, 2025) Women’s Major League Indoor Soccer (WMLIS) is proud to announce the addition of the New Mexico Lightning as the league’s eighth franchise, continuing the league’s strategic growth and commitment to elevating women’s indoor soccer nationwide.

Founded in 2019, the Lightning, based in Albuquerque, brings a strong competitive pedigree and rich history to WMLIS. The club previously competed in the Premier Arena Soccer League (PASL) from 2019 through 2022, consistently representing the Southwest Division at a high level.

In their inaugural season, the Lightning quickly established themselves as contenders, earning a berth to the 2020 PASL Nationals in Cincinnati, where they advanced to the championship match and finished second overall, falling to the Cincinnati Sirens. The following season saw continued success, as the team qualified for the 2021 Nationals in Houston, competing against the top clubs in the country.

After their final PASL season in 2022, the organization stepped away from competition to regroup and re-envision its future. That future now includes a return to the national stage as part of WMLIS.

They are led by Taña Chavez, who has extensive playing and leadership experience. Chavez played collegiate soccer in Kansas, competed semi-professionally with the Albuquerque Lady Asylum (WPSL), and earned professional experience abroad with ASJ Soyaux in France’s Division 1 Féminine. She also has represented the U.S. Women’s Arena National Team. 

“I’m truly blessed and grateful for this opportunity to bring back our New Mexico Lightning,” said Taña Chavez, club owner. “This club represents years of sacrifice, resilience and love of the game. Being part of a league that believes in women’s indoor soccer means everything to us, and we are proud to represent in WMLIS.”

WMLIS Commissioner, Bernie Lilavois, added, “Taña and the Lightning embody exactly what we’re building in WMLIS. They have competitive success, strong leadership and a genuine passion for advancing the women's game. I’m excited to welcome them to our growing league and watch them compete this upcoming season."

The New Mexico Lightning will officially begin WMLIS competition this upcoming season, with additional details regarding tryouts, roster announcements and schedule to be released in the coming weeks.

WMLIS kicks off its second season in January 2026. Schedule release is expected to be announced this weekend. For more information on the exciting opportunities available within the WMLIS, MLIS and MLISX, including details on player, coach and team participation please visit mlispro.com