It was a dream come true for Maria Sanchez when she was named to the U-20 Mexican National Team.

It isn’t a dream anymore. It’s something entirely different. The Idaho State freshman recently learned she will be moving up to the official Mexican National Team.

“I always wanted it my whole life,” Sanchez said. “I remember putting on jerseys that I had bought myself. So for that jersey to be official and hear the anthem, it gives me chills. It is so great to play for the country that I love so much.”

The journey to the top level of Mexican women’s soccer happened in the blink of an eye. Sanchez learned about open tryouts three days before they were to be held earlier this year. She quickly formulated a plan to get there, and after wowing coaches she passed the first and second cuts before being named to the under-20 team.

The incredible journey didn’t stop there. After spending time training with the U-20 team, she appeared in two games against the University of Chicago and the University of Michigan. The American Falls-native recorded an assist while turning enough heads to receive the promotion to the top level. She’ll have a chance to make the World Cup roster for the biggest event in women’s soccer held June 6 through July 5 this summer in Canada.

“In 20-plus years of coaching, I can’t remember being happier for a player than I am for Maria,” said ISU head women’s soccer coach Allison Gibson. “Her hard work and dedication for the sport are now being recognized on an international level. If she makes the World Cup roster, I will be there.”

Sanchez says there are 35 players on the current Mexican National Team, which will be trimmed down prior to the World Cup. She will appear in a few friendlies over the next month, hoping to make one more big impression. One of those will be a nationally televised match against the United States on May 17 on Fox Sports 1 and Univision Deportes from the Stub Hub Center in Los Angeles.

“I remember I took a picture with (USA National Team forward) Alex Morgan and got my shirt signed by her,” Sanchez said. “Now I will be on the same pitch against her. It is so amazing.”