Reaves’ leadership makes him a cut above the rest

Anthony Reaves Jr
youth of the year

By MarKeith Cromartie

Outlook writer

Number 88 left his all on the field as a Wide Receiver taking hits and making big plays. Anthony Reaves Jr, continues to make big plays off the field and scoring when it matters, in life, with his positive attitude and unmatched optimism he caught the attention of others.

“He is just so optimistic (and) he is certainly the finest young man in our school,” said Cokely head coach of the Leon Lions football team. “He’s got an optimistic outlook on everything (and) I think his optimism spilled over to the other seniors. That’s what made him a true leader.”

In addition to being captain of the Lions’ football team, Reaves, 18, is a battalion executive officer in his school’s ROTC program.

He also spends his time giving to civic organizations and was selected last year for the Martin Luther King Jr. Dreamers and Doers award. Reeves’ other honors include induction into the Links, one of the oldest volunteer organization for young Black men.

He added to his collection of awards for doing good when he was recently named Capital Outlook’s Youth of The Year.

His modesty was obvious when he was informed of the latest honor.

“It feels great,” he said. “It’s an honor to be able to named that out of all the youth in Tallahassee.” Reaves said.

Reaves learned at an early age, how to be great with a big assist from his father. Humility and humbleness became synonymous with his name. And, he did it with strong support of his mother, Stephanie Reaves, father Anthony Reaves and little brother Andrew Reaves.

But Anthony Reaves Sr., who heads up Leon’s ROTC program, was his main source of inspiration.

“Leading by example is a key thing we taught him,” said the senior Reaves.

His mom, Stephanie was with Reaves every step of the way always motivating him and keeping him focused.

“This is what every parent looks forward to; being successful in high school and moving on with their lives,” said Reaves’ mom.

“It makes me feel accomplished, excited and blessed because it has been a long journey and a lot of hard work,” she said. “We are excited because God blessed us with two beautiful sons.”

Reaves’ next big step is to become a college graduate. He is already committed to the University of West Florida. He hopes to begin his college career this fall, but for now Reaves is focusing his attention on being all that he can be for his community.

“I just want to be great; have others follow after me. I love just doing things for people. I like doing the right thing and have people follow me.”