Storm statements: Cleveland seniors, underclassmen all in for softball season 

RIO RANCHO — “I expect our team to make a statement this year.”

Making statements is something that has not been in Cleveland softball’s repertoire in recent seasons, coming off three straight losing seasons and a 10-16 finish in 2025.

But if you ask the Storm, such as Cleveland senior Julia Montoya or any other player down at “The Shockyards,” their mindset is a stark contrast of what the record books say.

“We have so many talented girls who have grown so much,” Montoya said. “And I can’t wait to show people what we’ve got and watch them grow in the future.”

In the Class of 2026’s time with the Storm, they have a combined record of 28-50-1. Only one player remains from the last winning Cleveland season: senior Naia Thompson, as an eighth grader in 2022. 

Don’t let the win column deter you; this class is still full of talent. Thompson and Montoya are both coming off district honors, with Montoya signing on to play collegiate softball for Arizona Christian University this past offseason.

Isabella Chavez, the lone junior, also earned a district honor on the district second team.

With one season left before they leave their electric blue jerseys behind, the seniors will look for their statement makers in … their underclassmen?

Cleveland’s youthful roster is highlighted by names such as Danika Jaime and Lilliana Gomez. Jaime took the Storm’s lone all-district first team honor in her freshman year last season, while Gomez earned an honorable mention as only an eighth grader.

A year later, these names will have to go from early standouts to pivotal pieces, with half of Cleveland’s roster being made up of underclassmen. 

While the younger players have to step up, it is also now on the older players to set the example.

“With our seniors leaving last year, it just means that there is a place for our girls to step up and fill that leadership role this year,” Montoya said. “I’m incredibly grateful for the group of seniors I have working alongside me; they are all truly amazing and great role models for our team.”

The Storm will open their season with the Cleveland Invite Tournament at The Shockyards, set to host Organ Mountain, Miyamura, Kirtland Central and Silver High. Cleveland will open the weekend against Miyamura on March 6. 

“People should know how hardworking this team is,” Montoya said. “Collectively, we have put in so much time and work all year, and I can’t wait to finally be able to lay it all out on the field.”