Jeff Reese will likely spend many Saturdays at Audrey J. Walton Stadium over the next four falls, but it will be from a different perspective than which he is accustomed.The Warrenton graduate is planning to attend the University of Central Missouri for academic purposes only, putting a storied high school career on the gridiron behind him.It’s why the opportunity to play in Saturday’s Lions Club All-Star Game in Warrensburg was such a coveted experience for him.“As of right now, I’m not playing college football, so just getting to play one more game was awesome,” said Reese, who started at center and also played considerable time at defensive tackle.Warrenton Coach Steve McDowell had nominated Reese along with quarterback T.J. Lafaver, to play in the game. Lafaver had to decline, having reported early to practices at Missouri Western State University, where he will be playing this fall.“It was a great honor for him to be selected to compete,” said McDowell. “He did an outstanding job and represented us well.”According to McDowell, Billy Speiser was the last Warrenton player to participate in the game, in 2004.“It couldn’t happen to a better kid than Jeff,” said McDowell. “It’s been a while since we’ve had anyone play in that Lions All-Star Game.”The game ended in a 26-26 tie, which was about the only letdown of the week.“It was interesting, because after the game ended in a tie we didn’t know if there was going to be an overtime or not,” said Reese. “We were kind of disappointed the we didn’t get the chance to finish.”Reese’s team was instructed by the Poplar Bluff coaching staff, who drafted players. Each team had around 25 participants.Players reported to campus earlier in the week for two-a-day practices.“Practices were pretty laid back,” said Reese. “We went through each of the plays we were going to run during the game.”Proceeds from the game went toward the Lion’s Club’s mission of raising funds for research to improve eyesight.

Warrenton graduate Jeff Reese played in the Lions Club All-Star game at the University of Central Missouri last Saturday.

Submitted Photo.