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Resch and Castillo bring two more NMHSCA awards to Rio Rancho
Rikki Castillo (left) and Todd Resch (right) took some plaques home courtesy of the NMHSCA.
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ALBUQUERQUE — The New Mexico High School Coaches Association held an award ceremony at the Albuquerque Convention Center July 20, honoring many coaches throughout the Zia state. The city of Rio Rancho is now the home of four NMHSCA award recipients.
The Observer already highlighted NMHSCA winners Maddison Weaver, the cheer head coach at Cleveland, and Eric Jack, an assistant coach for the Rio Rancho girls basketball team. Add to the list Todd Resch, RRPS executive director of athletics, and Cleveland assistant softball coach Rikki Castillo.
Resch was named the 2024-25 NMHSCA Athletic Director of the Year.
“It is with great humility that I accept the New Mexico High School Coaches Association Athletic Director of the Year award. This recognition is not just a reflection of my work but a testament to the unwavering support and dedication of our district leadership, the many district departments who champion athletics behind the scenes, our incredible school athletic departments, and — most importantly — our coaches and student-athletes who give their all every day. This award belongs to all of them,” Resch said.
Since taking over the position in 2023, Resch has been a regular at sporting events throughout the district and has overseen some of the most premier athletic programs in the state. This past year, Resch helped RRPS reach the century mark for total state titles won by both Cleveland and Rio Rancho high schools.
Additionally, Castillo who was honored as the 2024-25 NMHSCA assistant coach of the year.
“This award is meaningful, but the real reward is being part of a program that shapes strong, resilient young women. I’m proud to be part of Cleveland softball and grateful it’s been a place where I’ve grown and developed as a coach,” Castillo said.
Castillo has been a crucial part of the Cleveland softball program for years and has helped shape many Storm softball players both on and off the field.
“I’m also incredibly thankful for the leaders who have supported Cleveland softball and mentored me along the way: District Athletic Director Todd Resch, Athletic Director Matt Martinez, Principal Scott Affentranger, and head softball coach Angel Castillo. Their belief in me and this program has played a huge role in my development,” Castillo said. “A special thank you to the NMHSCA and its members for this award — it means a great deal to be recognized by fellow coaches across the state.”
