KICK, SCORE, WIN: BLOOMFIELD’S VELASQUEZ IS A TRAILBLAZER
Bloomfield High School kicker Evani Velasquez kicked a pair of extra points in their Class 4A state football championship win over St. Pius X. Here is a conversation with the Bloomfield multi-sport athlete:
What did it feel like to kick a couple successful extra points in a state football final?
“It was surreal. Honestly, for the first kick I was nervous. I didn’t want to miss it, that’s what was going through my mind. I absolutely have to make this, no matter what. After the first PAT, all the boys were giving me high fives, and the crowd started chanting my number, and that was pretty awesome.”
What got you into football in the first place?
“Last year, during soccer season, I had a really serious injury, I tore my ACL. Coach Kovacs asked me to come out and manage the (football) team last year and we won the state championship. Being a part of that team, I was really inspired and I wanted to manage again this year, but instead he offered me the position of kicker. So, I tried out. It was hard at first. But I worked out and Coach Kovacs helped me along the way.”
Do you look at yourself as a trailblazer?
“Yes, I do. Playing football this year, I’ve been kind of an inspiration to other girls at my school. A couple girls asked me how it’s been and what I thought about them coming out next year. I love it. If you’re inspired to do something, go ahead and do it, nothing is stopping you.”
What’s next for you?
“I’m going to do powerlifting and indoor track this winter. In the spring, I’m going to do outdoor track. For track, I’m trying to place top two at state in the 100, 200, and 400.”
Lastly, what’s this whole experience been like for you?
“I feel like I’m living my dream. These boys have helped me change my character. I feel like a stronger athlete and person altogether. This has been the best experience of my high school sports.”
OTHERS:
Jada Lujan, kicker, scored and won a state title with St. Michael’s in 2023.
Tara Schneider, St. Michael’s kicker, won a state title with the Horsemen in 2023. Kallei Archuleta ALSO won titles with St. Michael’s in 2023 and 2024.
