ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – New Mexico United and the Somos Unidos Foundation announced on Thursday that David Estrada has been named the Head Coach of New Mexico United’s Academy - a fully-scholarshipped elite academy competing in USL Academy.

A former standout in the professional ranks in both Major League Soccer and the USL Championship ranks, Estrada has been part of the New Mexico United organization since 2019, concluding his playing career with the club before joining the coaching ranks in 2021.

“David is perhaps the greatest example of putting others first, and competing at an incredible, elite level,” said United Sporting Director Itamar Keinan. “He is an unbelievable role model for these young men; teaching them to be better footballers, and better New Mexicans.”

During his career Estrada won three Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cups and an MLS Supporters’ Shield as part of Seattle Sounders FC. He also made 169 appearances in the USL Championship, primarily for New Mexico and the Charlotte Independence while logging more than 10,000 minutes in the league.

Estrada has also been celebrated for his off-the-field work. He was voted as the Sounders’ Humanitarian of the Year in 2012, an award he also won as a player at New Mexico United. In 2021, Estrada joined the Somos Unidos Foundation as Community Relations Manager and Academy Scout. He quickly rose up the ranks, serving as a role model for the young men in the United Academy, and helping them focus on more than just athletics.

Last December, Estrada’s role at the club and the New Mexico United Academy program were featured in Showtime series “The World According to Football”, hosted by Trevor Noah.