HFC Coach Mena Rojas Becomes Mexico's 17U National Team Coach
Western North Carolina, November 16, 2022-
We are incredibly proud to share with HFC families and our entire ABYSA soccer community some very exciting but bittersweet news! The National Soccer Federation of Mexico announced last week the hire of HFC’s Jimena Rojas to the position of Head Coach of their Women’s 17U National Team.
Mike Rottjakob, ABYSA’s Executive Director, said, “When Mena arrived at HFC a year and a half ago, everyone immediately recognized, without having to see her impressive resume, just how special she is as a coach. Not just the best in our area, but one of the best in the world. Our players benefited immensely during her time at HFC, which Mena told me she absolutely loved, and we are thankful for the impact of her leadership. As an organization, we are not only very proud, but are confident that she will shine in
this next chapter of her international coaching journey. What a great role model for our players and staff to follow over the next few years. She will be a celebrity on the HFC Training Grounds when she comes to visit us.”
HFC Girl’s Program Director Kate Hammes added, “Mena has been instrumental to the growth of our program. Our eyes stay focused on the goals that we have set and we will continue to build on our success. We are grateful to Coach Mena for all that she has contributed. She has most definitely left a lasting impression on the Asheville community and will be missed. With that said, I am her biggest fan and am excited she has the opportunity to show what she can do on the International Stage. I hope that we continue this tradition in Asheville of having representation with an International Badge, who will be next?”
With Mena’s departure, HFC Leadership and the Girl’s Program Staff has put a plan in place to complete our fall season building on our progress and growth over the last year. Thank you for your support of HFC and our Girl’s Director, Kate Hammes, as we all work to fill Mena’s shoes.
Mena left us with these kind words: “Thank you Mike, Kate and HFC for being so supportive during my time in Asheville and now with this new opportunity. You all have a place in my heart and will be missed. I will continue to follow HFC and hope to read lots of exciting news. Your journey is just beginning, you’re in great hands, so continue to work hard as you will reach new heights, of that I am sure!” Jimena Rojas, 17U Women’s National Team Coach, Mexico