Cleveland boosters build tradition, new events for Storm

RIO RANCHO — If you ask someone about Cleveland football’s traditions, they may tell you about their winning culture and championship history.

But if you ask Storm Booster president Holly Jones, she’ll tell you about serving watermelon, moms performing tackling drills, and cooking up barbecue at scrimmages.

No matter how you describe it, Storm football and the boosters are blazing a trail in setting the foundation for the young program.

“We’re proud of the culture our coaches have built,” Jones said. “And as boosters and parents, we want to support that by making sure our players feel connected not just on the field, but also off it.”

This past month, the boosters have been busy at work putting together several events in the ramp-up to the season. Whether it’s getting everyone together for a meal or helping prep the equipment for the fall, it all stems back to an overarching value.

“Events like Dad’s and Decals, Mom’s Night and the Watermelon Feed aren’t just fun traditions. They are opportunities for parents, players and coaches to come together and strengthen those bonds,” Jones said. “When everyone feels like part of a family, it creates an atmosphere where our kids can thrive, and that’s what this program is all about.”

Jones and her family have been in Rio Rancho since 2017, with three sons passing through the program. While some events have been staples for a couple of years now, Jones and the board are always thinking about new ideas.

The booster’s latest addition to the preseason festivities was a Kick-Off Barbeque, serving food provided by Turquoise Desert Taproom at last week’s scrimmage.

“Our season as a booster program really starts back up in January, and from that point forward, we’re constantly brainstorming,” Jones said. “We’re also fortunate to have such a supportive community behind us. Partnerships like that (with Turquoise Desert Taproom) make a huge difference and show the heart of our Storm community.”

While the season kickoffs for the Storm this Saturday in Las Cruces, the real show starts for the boosters when Cleveland opens up their home schedule on Sept. 5 against Clovis.

“We, along with the staff at Cleveland High School, work very hard to make sure Friday nights at Lightning Bolt Stadium are fun for the entire family,” Jones said. “We have a great concession stand that we’re always looking to improve, Storm spirit wear for sale, and spirit favors that we give out at every home game.

“Honestly, there’s no better place to be on a Friday night.”