New athletic director for Bernalillo Public Schools, John Cobos takes over

BERNALILLO — Bernalillo Public Schools has a new athletic director, and it's a familiar face.

Announced on Monday morning and effective immediately, Bernalillo Public Schools has appointed long-time varsity football coach and former middle school athletic coordinator John Cobos to the athletic director position.

“Mr. Cobos brings extensive experience and a long-standing commitment to Bernalillo athletics,” BPS wrote in a press release. “This year marks his 18th year serving Bernalillo Public Schools, during which he has made a lasting impact on student-athletes and athletic programs across the district.”

Cobos has been the Spartans' head football coach for the last 11 seasons, coaching with the school for the last 18 years. He has 21 years of coaching experience altogether.

Spartans football is coming off another playoff appearance in 2025, Cobos' ninth straight trip to the state tourney at the helm.

Perhaps more prevalent than his career on the sidelines is his work at the middle school level. Cobos was a longtime athletic coordinator, looking to bring that same mindset and body of work to the whole school district.

“As Athletic Director, Mr. Cobos will oversee all interscholastic athletic programs across the district,” BPS wrote. “His priorities include increasing student engagement in sports activities and improving athletic facilities and equipment to ensure student-athletes have access to safe, high-quality environments that support performance and growth.”

Bernalillo Superintendent Matthew Montaño is confident in the move.

“John Cobos brings unmatched knowledge of our athletic programs and a proven track record of success,” he said. “His long-term commitment to our students and community makes him an excellent choice to lead the district’s athletic programs.”

Cobos will now finish out the 2025-26 school year in his new position before beginning his first full school year with the title this fall, along with his 12th football season as head coach.

“I’m excited to step into the role of Athletic Director and look forward to driving student engagement in sports while also enhancing our facilities to provide the best environment for our athletes to thrive,” Cobos said.