Cleveland Storm ready to make mark on 2024 season

RIO RANCHO, N.M. (KRQE) – The 2023 football season marked the first time since 2018 that the blue trophy did not belong to the Cleveland Storm. The team looks to be in contention once again.

The Storm’s roster is filled with upperclassmen and returns six starters from a year ago. Even after losing multiple collegiate players to graduation, including key pieces such as Strat Shufelt, Harris Mbueha and Isaac Medrano, coaches and players feel this year is a reload and not a rebuild.

“I think we are starting to mesh, you know we got a good core group of guys back,” said head coach Robert Garza. “You know, we lost a good group, but we are filling in where we got to fill in and have a bunch of new faces are going to be out there this year. A bunch of guys that have been in the program waiting for their moment.”

“I think everybody steps up to the plate and tries to make the best of what we have here,” said MLB/TE Jon Baca.

One of the Storm’s key returners comes under center. Starting quarterback Jordan Hatch is entering his junior season with a new coordinator, but a familiar face to the program.

Heath Ridenour, the former head coach, rejoins the Cleveland Staff after spending the last two seasons on the UNM staff.

“The knowledge he brought back from coaching Division I football for a few years not only helps our offense, but he has brought some things back to us on the defensive side that helps us see things in a different way,” Garza said. “He is a heck of coach and we are just excited to have him back on staff.”

Cleveland opens the season hosting Centennial on August 23.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.