Arroyo quarterback/safety Steven Rivera, the 2011 Tribune Player of the Year, will play at Whittier College next season.

Rivera was deciding between Whittier College and Cal-Lutheran over the weekend and decided to become a Poet. The process lasted longer than expected as Rivera sought out the best financial package.

Rivera’s performance at strong safety had some schools wanting him solely for that purpose, but both Whittier and Cal-Lu reportedly wanted Rivera to play QB and compete for the starting position this fall.

Rivera threw for 3,401 yards and 38 touchdowns in 2011. On defense, he recorded 131 tackles, caused seven fumbles, recovered five fumbles and intercepted four passes. Arroyo went 10-2 and won the Mission Valley League for the third consecutive season.

Rivera is the Valley’s all-time leading passer in career yardage and touchdowns passes. He is also top 10 in CIF-Southern Section history in both categories.

Rivera will play quarterback at Whittier College.

Aram’s take: Congrats to Rivera. It’s good to keep him right in our backyard.