For the first time in the 16-year history of the Under Armour NEXT All-America Game, a player from New Hampshire has earned a spot among the nation's elite high school football athletes. Exeter senior Isaiah Reese will represent the Granite State on January 2, when he takes the field at SPEC Martin Stadium in Deland, Florida. The game, featuring more than 100 of the nation's top players, kicks off at 4:00 p.m. and will be broadcast live on ESPN.

Reese's selection caps off a stellar season in which he helped Exeter compile an 8-1 record, highlighted by a dominant 56-28 win over Avon Old Farms in the Drew Gamere NEPSAC Bowl Game. The University of Virginia commit was showered with accolades this fall, including Northeast Football Conference (NEFC) Defensive Player of the Year, All-NEFC First Team, All-NEPSAC honors, and the Robert C. Mason Football Trophy, awarded to Exeter's team MVP.

"Isaiah was a paramount leader for our team," said Big Red head coach Panos Voulgaris. "His versatility sets him apart from other players. He excelled at all three levels defensively, and offensively, he could play any skill position. He never missed a single practice during his Exeter career, leading by example every day. His toughness, durability, and productivity make him one of the best players in Exeter's recent football history."

Reese's athletic achievements extend beyond the football field. On the track, he captured the New England Prep School championship in the javelin last spring and placed third nationally at Nike Outdoor Nationals. He was also part of Exeter's 4x400 relay team that won the New England title. Additionally, Reese contributed to the boys' basketball team's Class A New England championship last winter. This year, he plans to compete in indoor track before heading to Virginia next fall.

Voulgaris, a veteran assistant coach at the Under Armour All-America Game, will join Reese on the sidelines during the week-long event.

"It's a tremendous honor for Isaiah," Voulgaris said. "He's earned this opportunity to compete on a national stage."