in 2010–11, the storm finished last in the western conference. after another slow start in 2011–12, head coach drew schoneck was relieved of his duties and assistant coach josh hauge was promoted. under hauge, the storm rallied late in the season and were able to clinch a playoff spot, finishing in sixth in the western conference. the waterloo black hawks defeated tri-city in the first round of the postseason. in hauge's first full season behind the bench, injuries plagued the storm and the team again finished last in their conference. captain brian ward had a strong season offensively, scoring 54 points in just 42 games. michael vecchione led the team with 26 goals.