Hanks High School graduate Vanessa Thomas helped NMSU's inaugural women's soccer team to a surprising 9-9-1 finish. (Courtesy photo)

Vanessa Thomas' first season at New Mexico State was full of surprises.

The former Hanks High School standout was one of the first players to commit to the Aggies' first-year soccer program in 2009. Thomas, who was one of El Paso's top strikers during her four years with the Knights, expected to be attacking on the front row at NMSU.

"I was recruited as a forward, but I was put in on defense my first game and I've been there ever since and I love it," Thomas said. "It was a shock. I was a little kid freshman and I didn't know what to expect. I'm glad it played out the way it did."

Heading into her senior season, Thomas has played in 55 matches and started in all but eight. She has served as one of the cornerstones of the NMSU program.

"Vanessa is part of what we call our foundation class," Aggies head coach Blair Quinn said. "I think any senior class would be motivated, but I think what is special about them is that very few classes get a chance to start a program and see it through during their four years."

The Aggies compiled a surprising 9-9-1 record in their inaugural season as Thomas saw action in each match and started in 14. NMSU reached the WAC tournament and lost 1-0 in the first round to fourth-seeded Nevada.

"It was a little surprising since we were in our first year," Thomas said. "But we had good players."

With Thomas a fixture in the back row, New Mexico State went 7-8-3 in 2010 and failed to make the WAC tournament.

"I can always do better and that's what this year is for," Thomas said. "I can't wait to make this year better than last year."

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Hanks High School grad finds success in new position at NMSU