Henriquez will be returning for his third season with the Switchbacks. In 2023, Henriquez made 23 appearances and recorded six goals and two assists in 1,449 minutes. The 30-year-old’s campaign was highlighted by a spectacular bicycle kick finish at Weidner Field that helped seal a 2-0 victory against Sacramento Republic FC, a notable result as the Switchbacks progressed to the postseason for a third consecutive season.

“Excited to have Jairo returning for 2024. He contributed to the team with some wonderful goals last season,” said Switchbacks Technical Director & Assistant Coach, James Chambers. “His quality as a player and personality as a person are both assets to the club. We are looking forward to seeing him push on again next season.”

Analysis

Retaining Jairo Henriquez for the new season would have been a reasonably easy decision for the Switchbacks, with the veteran playmaker not only a good draw at the box office but also capable of brilliance in the final third. The 30-year-old has 10 goals, six assists and 43 chances created in 38 appearances since his arrival midway through the 2022 campaign.

The big question will be whether Henriquez can find a higher level of productivity within Colorado Springs’ lineup next season, something for Head Coach Stephen Hogan to try and unlock in his second year at the helm. For a team that wants to play entertaining, attacking soccer, Henriquez upping his numbers would augur well for a high finish in the Western Conference.