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Weems announced as new NM Runners head coach
Coach Brian Weems talks to refs during a soccer game between Rio Grande and Cleveland. Weems is set to be the new head coach for the NM Runners.
RIO RANCHO – On Jan. 17, the New Mexico Runners made a tough announcement: beloved, longtime head coach Steve Famiglietta was resigning, effective immediately.
“We are incredibly thankful for everything Coach Famiglietta has done for the Runners organization,” said team owner Andres Trujillo. “Steve’s qualifications, soccer history, and contributions to the soccer community has helped grow soccer in New Mexico. I have the utmost respect for Steve, as he has led the team with strength and determination through both unique and challenging times during his time with us.”
Famiglietta joined the NM Runners in 2018, at the inception of the team. His record over his time with the team was 17 wins and 44 losses.
“Under his direction, the Runners have competed with heart and determination, embodying the spirit of the community they represent,” the team said in a news release. “Beyond the field, he worked to promote soccer in New Mexico, engaging with fans, players, and the local community to grow the sport.”
The Runners concluded the announcement by saying they were already deep into a coaching search.
The following day, Jan. 18, the Runners played the Wichita Wings on the road at the Park City Arena. The NM Runners lost 15-6 and dropped to 0-5 on the season.
It wasn’t all bad news though. The team’s six goals tied their season high for a single game and the nine-point defeat was their second lowest margin of defeat all year.
But even better, the Runners found their new head coach.
On Jan. 20, after a whirlwind interview and hiring process, the Runners announced their new head coach will be Brian Weems.
The team welcomed Weems with a news conference and ceremony at High Noon Saloon in Albuquerque on Jan. 21.
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“A dynamic leader with a deep passion for the game and an unwavering commitment to success, Coach Weems is ready to lead the Runners to an exciting new chapter in the franchise’s history,” the Runners said in the news release.
Coach Weems was previously the head coach of the Rio Grande Ravens prep soccer team, where he coached the state’s leading points-getter Leo Bencomo Zarate and his squad to a 17-4-1 record last season.
Coach Weems will be at the helm for the squad’s next match, another bout against the Wings, this time at home, on Jan. 26.
