Manzano believed that providing Spanish-speaking listeners with the game in their native language made it easier for them to connect with the sport. He emphasized that the unique phrasing, rhythm, and tone of voice used during key moments enhance their enjoyment of the game and help bring the experience to life for fans.

His reach extended far beyond Kansas City, with listeners from places like Spain and Brazil also tuning in and appreciating the broadcast in their own language.

Adan Manzano Aguilar covering the Super Bowl LVIII, from a post dated February 17, 2024 | Source: Instagram/adanmanzanoa

In 2023, Manzano covered the Super Bowl in the broadcast booth. However, in 2024, he was upgraded to a sideline reporter. “I used to dream about this but I never expected that it was going to come that soon. It’s just a blessing,” he said.

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So, Manzano was excited to be back to the Super Bowl in 2025. The last post on his Instagram before his demise was about the big game.

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He wrote, “‘Opening Night’ officially kicks off Super Bowl LIX week!  The teams, the excitement and all the stories surrounding this big event where the Chiefs seek the coveted tri-championship start here. Don’t miss any details of this great event by Telemundo Kansas City! .”

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As for his personal life, The sports journalist was a devoted father to his young daughter, Eleanor. Sadly, Eleanor has now lost both her parents as her mother, Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd Manzano-Aguilar, died on April 11, 2024, at the age of 24.

She died in a multiple-vehicle crash southwest of Topeka. An infant passenger in the car with her was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries as well as the driver of the other car.

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Boyd was a dedicated second-grade teacher at Lowman Hill Elementary School, who was cherished by students, parents, and the staff. She also held membership at the Kansas Association for Youth (KAY) and was an active participant.

Manzano’s Instagram description has a special message for his late wife, which reads, “Always in my heart @ashleighboyd37 .” The sports journalist’s wife also adored him and was so proud of him when he went from airing from the broadcast booth to a sideline reporter at the Super Bowl in 2024.

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“He has worked so hard at this. There’s been times when he’s had two or three jobs to make ends meet. And now knowing he gets to go out there and do what he loves and what he’s good at, it’s just the best feelings ever,” she shared.

At home, Manzano’s wife and daughter enjoyed racing to see who could spot him first on the TV screens while he broadcasted the game live.

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Manzano cherished his baby girl, who was only 15 months old when her mother died. Even when his daughter was not in the field with him, Manzano had a special way to include her.

When he attended the first media game hosted by Kansas City Current, he posted a collage of pictures, with one shot showing him in a jersey with Eleanor’s name written on the back. He captioned the post, “There is this girl who stole my heart and something tells me I am going to love her forever.”

It is now heartbreaking that a young girl has lost both her parents. The entire sports community that knew Manzano is also mourning his loss while honoring his hard work and dedication to the game and profession.