Manuel “Peanut” Chavarria Named Athlete of the Week
Story by Walter Dorman
Photos by Chuck Cook 505dustdevil Photography
and Tasha Higgins Pieces of Me Photography
BLOOMFIELD, N.M. — Bloomfield quarterback Manuel “Peanut” Chavarria had a career night last Friday, leading the Bobcats to a dominant 59-18 victory over the Miyamura Patriots. His outstanding performance has earned him recognition as the Athlete of the Week.
Chavarria lit up the field, completing 10 of 13 passes for 350 yards, throwing six touchdown passes, and adding 45 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown. His only blemish on the night was a single interception..
Coach Mike Kovacs praised his senior signal-caller, pointing to his preparation, leadership, and ability to set the tone early. “I was very impressed with his command presence on the field and his discussion with the receivers about how they were going to attack the defense,” Kovacs said. “That first drive was very critical. He just ran out there, knew the script, got everybody on the ball, and executed exactly what we talked about. It was crisp, down the field, and the perfect way to open the game.”
Chavarria has also shown remarkable growth stepping into the role as a senior. “The cream rose to the top and it was his turn,” Kovacs explained. “He’s really owned the position this season. After the Piedra Vista game he even beat himself up a little, but to bounce back the way he did shows his focus and maturity. That’s very impressive for a young man his age.”
Leadership has become one of Chavarria’s trademarks. “Peanut likes to build guys up,” Kovacs said. “If he makes a mistake, he owns it and tells his teammates, ‘That was on me.’ Then he gets right back to work. That’s the kind of leader you want under center.”
Behind the scenes, Chavarria has worked tirelessly to sharpen his craft — from long film sessions with quarterback coach Cody Smith, to extra reps on the practice field. His commitment, combined with his unique spark and sense of humor, has made him both a playmaker and a motivator within the Bobcats locker room. “He takes everything like it’s his senior year, because it is,” Kovacs added. “He’ll rerun plays at practice until they’re perfect. That kind of drive is what makes him stand out.”
With district play now on the horizon, Bloomfield will look to carry that momentum into a huge rivalry matchup. The Bobcats travel to face the Kirtland Central Broncos this Friday night as the road to the playoffs begins.
“It’s not about the points for him,” Kovacs said. “It’s about getting better week to week and putting the team on his back. Performances like Friday night give him confidence, and give this team confidence, as we head into district.”
If last Friday was any indication, Manuel “Peanut” Chavarria is ready to lead the Bobcats wherever this season takes them.
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