After reaching the Western Conference Final in the USL Championship Playoffs each of its first two seasons, El Paso Locomotive FC found another level in the 2021 regular season. The club vied with Phoenix Rising FC for the best record in the Western Conference, set a club record with 18 victories and went undefeated at Southwest University Park. Then the postseason arrived, and a shock exit at the first hurdle as Oakland Roots SC recorded the upset to bring the curtain down on the campaign.

The offseason provided another surprise as Head Coach Mark Lowry – who supplied the foundation for El Paso’s on-field success – departed to take the vacant position at Indy Eleven. While there could be concern, though, incoming Head Coach John Hutchinson has a fine collection of talent both returning and arriving that should lead to Locomotive FC maintaining its level as it enters its fourth year. At the forefront is 18-year-old Diego Luna, who recorded nine goals and five assists in his first professional season and was called up to the United States U-20 Men’s National Team. After being the first Locomotive FC player to earn USL Championship All-League honors last season, the spotlight will be firmly on as he looks to follow the path of Jonathan Gomez and Jose Gallegos to Europe.

There’s plenty of experience as well to back up the young starlet, too, with Luis Solignac and Josue Aaron Gomez both returning in attack, the creativity of Dylan Mares in midfield and the defensive presence of Yuma and holding midfielder Richie Ryan. El Paso has also added some notable names, including the Championship’s all-time leader in shutouts, Evan Newton, to replace departed goalkeeper Logan Ketterer. It should add up to a side that will once again be a strong contender for silverware at the end of the season.

Evan Newton, Goalkeeper – Championship’s all-time leader in saves, shutouts joins on loan from Whitecaps

Christiano Francois, Midfielder – Haiti international led Miami FC in goals a season ago, will add to potent attack

Eric Calvillo, Midfielder – El Salvador international joins after winning Championship Final with Orange County SC

Harry Brockbank, Defender – Former Bolton Wanderers defender makes move across the Atlantic

Nick Ross, Midfielder – Capable midfielder signed as free agent with Sacramento Republic FC

Macauley King, Defender – Consistent fullback was transferred to Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC

Mechack Jerome, Defender – Haiti international departed to join Mark Lowry at Indy Eleven

Logan Ketterer, Goalkeeper – Signed as free agent with Major League Soccer’s Club de Foot Montreal