Best concert you’ve ever been too?

What was the ultimate cafeteria lunch item you traded for?

HEAD COACH HIRES

Atrisco Heritage (6A): Hired Dominic Casaus former OC at AHA.

Cibola (6A): Hired former Rio Rancho head coach, UNM assistant David Howes as head coach

Espanola Valley (4A): Caleb Holbrook, former Los Alamos OC

Gallup (3A): Hired Lawrence Garcia former Miyamura assistant.

Legacy Academy (2A): Promoted assistant Joey Romero to Head Coach.

Mesilla Valley Christian (8-Man): Hired Jacob Caldwell

Sandia (6A): Hired Tylon Wilder. Former Espanola Valley head coach.

Santa Fe (6A): Hired Adrian Gonzales. Former assistant with the Demons and West Las Vegas HC.

Socorro (3A): Hired Derek Smith. Former Gadsden assistant coach.

HEAD COACH OPENINGS

Robertson (3A)

Ruidoso (3A)

ASSISTANT OPENINGS

Clovis (6A)

Deming (5A) - Varsity offense assistant coach

Manzano (4A) - Varsity assistant

Pojoaque Valley (3A) - Coordinator

Santa Fe Indian (Independent)

Valencia (4A) -- coordinator positions available

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Share rumors, job openings, hirings, and assistant coaching opportunities in this thread. You can also text updates to 505-414-4313 or email them to grinejosh@yahoo.com.

Offered from UTEP

2025 PRESEASON (SUMMER) RANKINGS

No. 84 Santa Fe Indian Braves - Preview
No. 85 Newcomb Skyhawks - Preview
No. 86 Gallup Bengals - Preview
No. 87 Zuni Thunderbirds - Preview
No. 88 Wingate Bears - Preview
No. 89 Capitan Tigers - Preview

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Working on releasing our 89 to 1. Hitting June hard with content. Any thoughts on who should be ranked in the top 10? What about No. 1 in each class?

No. 84 Santa Fe Indian Braves

Head Coach: Anthony “Bones” Segura
2024 Record: 1-9 overall, Independent
Classification: 3A (Independent)
Points For: 70
Points Against: 446
2024 Final Ranking: No. 77 overall (6A–2A), No. 15 in 3A
2025 Preseason Ranking: No. 84 overall, No. 17 in 3A
Playoff Result: Not eligible (Independent)

Review​

The Santa Fe Indian Braves opened the 2024 season with a 20-18 win over Cuba but quickly hit a wall, dropping their next nine games to close the season on a nine-game losing streak. As an independent team, Santa Fe Indian did not compete in district play and was not eligible for postseason competition. The losses came against Newcomb (26-8), Laguna-Acoma (52-0), Legacy Academy (55-0), Navajo Prep (42-20), Hope Christian (48-8), McCurdy (56-8), Pojoaque Valley (59-6), and Tohatchi (47-0). They were shut out three times and surrendered 446 points across the season while scoring just 70.

Overview​

The 2025 season marks year two under head coach Anthony “Bones” Segura, and the Braves are hoping to take significant steps forward. Still part of a two-year independent block, Santa Fe Indian remains ineligible for the playoffs, but that hasn’t stopped the program from laying foundational pieces. Though the scoreboard rarely favored them, the Braves did show improved effort and flashes of development in key areas throughout last season. With more continuity in the system and several returning contributors, they’re aiming to move out of the bottom tier of Class 3A and establish a more competitive identity.

Roster Breakdown​

The offense will again be led by Cameron Gutierrez (2026), who returns at quarterback after starting under center last fall. His backfield partner, Matias Martinez (2026), is also back after showing big-play ability with several strong runs throughout the season. Brian Sarrancino (2028) saw limited time at running back as a freshman and could take on an expanded role. On the perimeter, Jesse Whiteman (2026) returns as a key receiving target, giving Gutierrez some familiarity in the passing game.

The offensive line, though young, brings back multiple pieces with game experience. Kurt Cordero (2026), Ayden Casiquito (2026), and Jax Trujillo (2026) all saw action last year and return to anchor the front. One of the most promising linemen may be Darius Atencio (2028), who played as a freshman and will now step into a larger role as a sophomore. The Braves may not have elite size or depth, but they do return a solid core of developing players who are growing within Coach Segura’s system.

Realistic Expectations​

The Braves enter 2025 with realistic hopes of improving on last year’s 1-9 finish. They’ll once again face a full independent schedule, giving them flexibility in matchups and the opportunity to build confidence against teams with similar challenges. With an experienced quarterback in Gutierrez, a handful of returning playmakers, and a more seasoned offensive line, the offense should be more consistent in year two.

Defensively, the Braves must tighten up significantly after allowing over 55 points per game last season. If they can get off the field more consistently and avoid giving up early big plays, they could keep games within reach more often.

We project Santa Fe Indian to finish around 2-8 or 3-7, with a ceiling of four wins depending on early-season momentum. That type of improvement would be meaningful for a team working to re-establish itself and earn respect within 3A football, even without postseason eligibility.

Bottom Line​

Santa Fe Indian is a program still very much in rebuild mode, but the pieces are beginning to fall into place. Under Anthony Segura, the Braves are showing signs of internal growth, improved structure, and player development. Cameron Gutierrez, Matias Martinez, and the returning offensive line form a core that should give this team more stability in 2025.

They are not yet ready to compete with 3A’s top teams, but as an independent with a manageable schedule, the Braves have a real opportunity to improve their record and begin building belief in the direction of the program. Progress won’t be measured in playoff wins this year—but if the Braves can double or triple their win total from last season, the culture change will be well underway.

From the ABQ Journal:
Prosecutors won't pursue more than a dozen battery charges against a Rio Rancho High School junior varsity baseball player accused of urinating in an opposing team’s water jug. Story link in comments.

2025 COACH TRACKER

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Head Girls Basketball Coaches and AD's

Rehoboth Christian HS will be having our HS Girls Basketball Team Camp this weekend. June 6-7. If you're interested in coming please let me know.

AD's if you hired a new coach please forward info to them. Thank you.

Adrian Pete, AD
Rehoboth Christian HS

Here is my next Sunday segment of my 1-on-1 feature!

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[1:40 - Spring Game][6:28 - Interview with Head Coach Jeff Lynn]

No. 85 Newcomb Skyhawks

Head Coach: Vicent Lee
2024 Record: 4-6 overall, 0-5 District 1-2A
Classification: 2A (District 1-2A)
Points For: 176
Points Against: 273
2024 Final Ranking: No. 83 overall (6A–2A), No. 16 in 2A
2025 Preseason Ranking: No. 85 overall, No. 16 in 2A
Playoff Result: Missed Playoffs

Review​

The Newcomb Skyhawks were one of the classifications early surprises in 2024, opening the season with a 4-0 record after notching wins over Wingate, Santa Fe Indian, Gallup, and Tohatchi. The run-first Skyhawks relied on their physicality and backfield depth to overwhelm non-district opponents. But once district play began, the season unraveled. Newcomb closed the year on a six-game losing streak, falling to Loving, McCurdy, Hozho Academy, Laguna-Acoma, and Cuba. The losses exposed depth issues and defensive struggles, especially against playoff-caliber teams. Newcomb finished the season at 4-6 overall, 0-5 in district, and landed at No. 83 in the overall rankings and No. 16 in Class 2A.

Overview​

Under Vicent Lee, the Skyhawks have fully embraced a power-running identity. In 2024, they rushed for over 2,500 yards as a team while throwing for just 115 yards total on the season. That approach produced early-season success but left them vulnerable in games where they trailed or had to adjust on the fly. Entering 2025, Newcomb looks to remain true to its ground-and-pound philosophy but will need better results in district play to be taken seriously as a contender. With a strong group of backs returning and young offensive linemen gaining experience, the pieces may be in place for a turnaround.

Roster Breakdown​

The backfield is led by senior Landon Noble (2026), who returns after rushing for 1,411 yards and 11 touchdowns as a junior. He will again be the workhorse of the offense and a leader on defense from his defensive back position. Colt Yazzie (2026), who added 338 rushing yards and a touchdown last season, also returns to solidify the backfield. Glacious Chee (2026) and Kaelowe Tom (2026) each contributed over 170 rushing yards, and Chee in particular brings two-way value with his defensive presence. Of the five backs who rushed for over 100 yards last season, only one graduated, leaving a strong and experienced unit intact.

Up front, the offensive line brings back two standouts from the Class of 2028 who played significant minutes as freshmen. Terrence Dick (2028) returns at center and was already considered a force last season, while Bryson Brown (2028) also returns to help anchor the offensive front. The continuity and physicality of the line will be critical if Newcomb is to continue its rushing dominance.

Defensively, the Skyhawks take a hit due to graduation, but some key players return. Landon Noble (2026) leads the secondary, Marlene Martin (2027) returns at linebacker, and Lyn Bencenti (2026) brings experience to the defensive line. Glacious Chee (2026) will again be an important two-way contributor. A player to watch is Ezekiel Becenti (2028), who flashed potential as a freshman and could emerge as a breakout player in the secondary this fall.

Realistic Expectations​

The Skyhawks start the 2025 season ranked No. 85 overall and No. 16 in 2A—nearly identical to their final ranking last fall. But despite the low preseason ranking, there is upside here. Newcomb has the returning talent to climb the standings quickly. Their ability to dominate the ground game gives them an identity and an edge in controlling tempo, and they have enough experienced backs to continue wearing down opponents. The biggest question mark remains on defense, where improvement is essential if the Skyhawks want to compete in District 1-2A.

A return to a 4-0 start is possible again this year, and if they can steal a district win or two, Newcomb could push for a 6-4 finish. We’re projecting them cautiously at No. 16 in 2A for now, but they are one of the more likely risers in this tier.

Bottom Line​

The Skyhawks have a clear identity, an experienced and productive backfield, and promising young lineme, all signs of a program that could break through with the right development. Landon Noble is one of the top returning backs in 2A, and with players like Chee, Yazzie, and Tom rounding out the backfield, Newcomb should again be difficult to slow down on the ground. The key lies in their defense, which must drastically improve to avoid another collapse in district play. If the Skyhawks can stay healthy, find some consistency on defense, and continue to dominate in the run game, 2025 could be the season they shake off last year’s losing streak and re-enter the 2A conversation.

No. 86 Gallup Bengals

Head Coach: Lawrence Garcia
2024 Record: 1-9 overall, 1-5 District 1-3A
Classification: 3A (District 1-3A)
Points For: 108
Points Against: 444
2024 Final Ranking: No. 87 overall (6A–2A), No. 19 in 3A
2025 Preseason Ranking: No. 86 overall, No. 18 in 3A
Playoff Result: Missed Playoffs

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Who wins this series?

8th grader has an offer from UNM

I'm really looking forward to the Pacers vs. Thunder championship — two young, exciting teams, SGA vs Haliburton! They claim it will be low ratings but I think this is going to be a great matchup.

No. 87 Zuni Thunderbirds

Head Coach: Shawn Miller
2024 Record: 2-8 overall, 1-5 District 1-3A
Classification: 3A (District 1-3A)
Points For: 122
Points Against: 402
2024 Final Ranking: No. 88 overall (6A–2A), No. 20 in 3A
2025 Preseason Ranking: No. 87 overall, No. 19 in 3A
Playoff Result: Missed Playoffs

Review: Searching for Answers​

The Zuni Thunderbirds showed flashes of fight during a tough 2024 campaign, but ultimately couldn’t overcome their shortcomings on either side of the football. After starting the season 0-3 with double-digit losses to Hozho Academy (36-6), Laguna-Acoma (48-18), and Hatch Valley (50-0)—a 3A playoff team that went on to win a postseason game—Zuni finally broke through with a 24-0 shutout of Hopi High School (AZ).

Momentum carried briefly into district play as Zuni outlasted Wingate 42-36 in a shootout, improving to 2-3 overall. But the second half of the season unraveled quickly. The Thunderbirds scored only 32 points across their final five games, all losses, and head into the 2025 season on a five-game losing streak.

They finished last in 3A and No. 88 overall in 2024. While they've moved up one spot to No. 87 in this year’s preseason rankings, major roster losses and question marks leave little reason for optimism.

Roster Breakdown: Filling Spots​

The Thunderbirds are in for a major reset on both sides of the football. They’ll be without standout running back Mackenzie Lara, and the quarterback position is also up for grabs heading into the fall. Finding a new leader under center will be a top priority as the offense tries to regain its rhythm after sputtering down the stretch last season.

There is some size and returning experience along the offensive line in Ty Lementino (2026), a 6-foot-2 senior-to-be who will be counted on to anchor the trenches. His leadership and physicality will be crucial as Zuni looks to develop a new backfield.

On the outside, Dionte Ukestine (2027) returns at wide receiver and could become a go-to option in the passing game, if they pass it. Another player to watch is Terrance Smith (2025), a two-way contributor with size who will be expected to play a larger role on both offense and defense.

Defensively, Zuni already struggled last season, allowing over 400 points, and now takes a major hit from graduation, losing much of its starting unit. Without immediate impact players ready to step in, the defense could face even more challenges in 2025.

Realistic Expectations for 2025​

Given the roster turnover and last year’s struggles, Zuni enters 2025 with one of the lowest preseason outlooks in the state. They open the year ranked No. 87 overall and No. 19 in 3A, narrowly ahead of Wingate, but there’s little separation.

A repeat 0-3 start is very possible, and even their non-district matchup with Hopi (AZ) isn’t guaranteed—the Arizona school won just two games last season but could be improved. While Zuni earned a win over Wingate last year, a reversal in that matchup could easily happen this fall.

At this stage, a realistic record for Zuni is 1-9 overall and 0-6 in district, matching their 2024 struggles and keeping them near the bottom of the 3A standings.

Bottom Line​

The Thunderbirds are trending toward another difficult season. They scored 66 of their 122 total points in just two games—their only wins—and failed to reach the end zone consistently in the second half of the year. With graduation gutting both sides of the ball, especially on defense, and uncertainty at quarterback and running back, 2025 looks like a rebuilding (or building) year at best.

There are a few bright spots—Lementino, Ukestine, and Smith offer some hope—but unless Zuni finds an answer at quarterback and dramatically improves defensively, they’re likely to remain near the bottom of Class 3A and New Mexico’s overall football rankings this fall.

Related: 2025 New Mexico high school football rankings

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