Who Was Adan Manzano?
Adan Manzano was a dedicated sports journalist and sideline reporter known for his work with Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports. He played a vital role in bringing American football coverage to Spanish-speaking audiences, making the sport more accessible and engaging for the Hispanic and Latino communities. His sudden passing at the age of 27 while covering Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans shocked the sports media industry.
Early Life and Education
Born in Mexico City, Adan Manzano later moved to Topeka, Kansas, in 2018. His passion for sports and journalism led him to Kansas State University, where he honed his reporting skills. He was an advocate for cultural representation in sports broadcasting, believing that American football could gain a strong following in Spanish-speaking communities.
Career and Achievements
Joining Telemundo and Tico Sports
In April 2021, Manzano was hired by KGKC Telemundo Kansas City as a sports anchor and reporter. His deep knowledge of the game and engaging reporting style quickly earned him recognition.
Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Current
Manzano’s success in sports journalism led him to become a sideline reporter for the Kansas City Chiefs’ Spanish-language broadcast team in the 2024 NFL season. Additionally, he worked as a play-by-play announcer for the Kansas City Current, a professional women’s soccer team.
Advocacy for Spanish-Language Sports Coverage
A significant part of Manzano’s career was dedicated to making American football more accessible to Spanish-speaking audiences. He believed that football had the potential to become as popular as soccer within Hispanic communities and worked diligently to make that vision a reality.
Personal Life and Tragic Loss
Family and Marriage
Manzano was married to Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd, a second-grade teacher in Topeka. The couple shared a deep bond and had a daughter named Eleanor.
Tragic Death of His Wife
In April 2024, Ashleigh Boyd tragically died in a car accident, a devastating event that deeply affected Manzano. He often paid tribute to her on social media, keeping her memory alive through heartfelt posts.
Adan Manzano’s Sudden Passing
Circumstances of His Death
While covering Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, Manzano was found unresponsive in his hotel room in Kenner, Louisiana, on February 5, 2025. Authorities stated there was no evidence of foul play or trauma, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of death.
Reactions from the Sports Community
His passing sparked an outpouring of grief from the sports world.
- Mayor Quinton Lucas of Kansas City described him as a “young and energetic professional who brought life to every event he covered.”
- Kansas City Chiefs and Telemundo colleagues expressed their condolences, highlighting his passion and dedication to sports journalism.
Legacy and Impact
Adan Manzano’s contributions to Spanish-language sports media have left a lasting impact. He was a bridge between cultures, making American football more inclusive and expanding its reach to a broader audience. His dedication, charisma, and deep love for the game will be remembered by those who followed his career.
FAQs About Adan Manzano
Who was Adan Manzano?
Adan Manzano was a sports journalist and sideline reporter for Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports, known for covering the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Current.
How did Adan Manzano die?
Manzano was found unresponsive in his hotel room while covering Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. The cause of death is still under investigation.
What teams did Adan Manzano cover?
He was a sideline reporter for the Kansas City Chiefs Spanish broadcast team and a play-by-play announcer for the Kansas City Current.
What happened to Adan Manzano’s wife?
His wife, Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd, passed away in a car accident in April 2024. The couple had a daughter named Eleanor.
What was Adan Manzano’s impact on sports journalism?
Manzano worked to expand Spanish-language coverage of American football, making the sport more accessible to Hispanic audiences.
Conclusion
Adan Manzano’s passing is a heartbreaking loss for the sports journalism community and Spanish-speaking sports fans. His contributions will be remembered, and his dedication to breaking language barriers in sports reporting leaves a lasting legacy.
