Cleveland High School baseball coach Shane Shallenberger is in his 13th season as the Storm’s head coach.

His team went 6-5 last season, which ended with a 16-5 loss at La Cueva in the quarterfinals. He was asked 10 questions by the Observer; here are his responses:

Highlights from 2021 season? Being able to get the season in was a highlight in itself due to the pandemic.

Worst nightmare(s) of 2021 season? Not knowing if the season would be canceled due to the pandemic.

Southpaw Jace Dominic delivers a pitch to a Hobbs hitter in the Storm’s 5-1 victory on Feb. 26. Gary Herron / Observer.

Top returning players for 2022? DJ Sandoval, Jace Dominic, Braylen Elzy, Logan Kinter, Austin Barela, Chase Tyler.

Varsity newcomers? Roman Branaugh, Gavin Hoffman, Brandon Hennessy, Malachi Jaramillo, James Brevig, Justin Brady.

Who’s the first guy at practice and the last guy to leave? It varies depending on the day. Our seniors are usually the first ones to the field. We all leave the field together after everything is put up.

Team you face that if you beat, you know it’ll be a good season? We face Hobbs twice early (state runner-up in 2021). They have their top pitchers back from last year, I believe this will give us some information on where we are and need to be.

Who’s the front-runner or pre-season favorite in District 1-5A? Rio Rancho.

For my team to get to the 5A state championship game, we’ll need: the newcomers this year to get caught up to this level quickly.

What do you hear yourself saying to your players, year after year? Control what you can control and be great at it.

What’s the most important skill you hope your players have? To be good people first. Treat others good and be good leaders.

Assistant coaches/roles: Adam Burke (varsity pitching coach), Devin Nelson (varsity assistant hitting and infield), Scott Ostrowsky (JV head coach), Sean Jimenez (JV assistant coach), Robert Montoya (C-team head coach), Ted Bency (C-team assistant).