About Our Co-Founders

Izell Reese

A true Cinderella story in the sports realm, Reese has come full circle as one of the founders of Rising Seniors. As a star high school student-athlete, Izell was like most who dream of playing at the collegiate level and beyond. After a stellar senior year he assumed that everything would fall into place, but a lack of exposure and understanding of the recruiting process led Reese to enter college as a walk-on at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. As a four year starter at UAB Reese was able to grow with the university’s new football program. During his time there UAB went from Division 3 to 1AA and on to Division 1, he then went on to be one of the first players in the school’s history to be drafted into the NFL. A 1998 draft pick by the Dallas Cowboys, Reese also played for the Denver Broncos and the Buffalo Bills before retiring in 2005.

Reese currently dedicates his life to helping athletes make successful transitions in sports (high school, collegiate and professional) and prepare for life beyond. He currently serves as the director of the speakers bureau for the National Collegiate Scouting Association, a national organization which educates high school student athletes, coaches, and families on the recruiting process. Through his efforts, Reese has aided in the transition of over 30 former professional athletes as well. He also currently serves as the Vice President for the NFL Players Association Atlanta Chapter for former players.