The Question Everyone Asks - Quinton Reese

Below is the Player Feature Story in the Flames Illustrated game programs for the Western Kentucky game on November 23 (story provided by Fanword.com).
By Quinton Reese

Over the past few months, one question has followed me everywhere:
Why did you choose to stay at Liberty?
In today's world of college athletics, where the transfer portal gives players fresh opportunities, spending an entire career at one school is uncommon.
And now, as I'm heading into my final college football games for Liberty, I can proudly say that the answer is pretty simple — I never did.

Leadership and Loyalty
When I was being recruited out of high school, Liberty wasn't initially on my radar.
I had offers from other programs, and I assumed my path would lead elsewhere.
But Liberty's commitment was relentless, and they pursued me with a level of passion that couldn't be ignored.
During my campus visit, I was struck by the state-of-the-art facilities, the dedicated coaching staff, and an unmatched sense of community.
Right then, I knew this was where I belonged.
That initial spark of belonging has only deepened.
I've poured my heart, sweat, and time into Liberty's program in my five years here.
Loyalty has always been important to me, and I wanted to leave here with more than I arrived with.
Unlike others, I wasn't drawn to Liberty just for a specific coach or season.
I came for the broader opportunity, and Liberty has continued to be that place of growth for me.
Now, with the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) landscape, I can be more than just a student-athlete.
I have a platform, and I want to use it not only for myself but also to help my teammates.
My goal each day is to be an ambassador, guiding others on how to build their brands, market themselves, and make the most of their opportunities.
Liberty has taught me a lot, and I feel it's my responsibility to share that knowledge with my peers.

Navigating a New Era of Team Dynamics
As a fifth-year senior, I've taken on a leadership role, but today's leadership in college sports isn't as straightforward as it used to be.
The transfer portal and NIL have transformed the dynamic, bringing in fresh faces and creating new teams almost every year.
With each season, we have the unique opportunity to reshape the culture, which is awesome but also creates a new challenge.
But it's a challenge that I embrace.
This senior class stands out.
We've been through thick and thin together, and every challenge has made us stronger. We hold ourselves to high standards and keep each other accountable, not because we're perfect but because we're determined.
That's the spirit of Liberty Football: we come from different places, backgrounds, and stories, yet we share one vision — to leave a legacy through hard work and resilience.
Our shared goal goes beyond wins and losses.
We're building something lasting.
Each of us brings something unique to the field and the locker room, and every one of us contributes to a legacy that future players will carry forward.

Brothers for Life
Reflecting on my journey, I'm filled with gratitude for the relationships that have shaped my time at Liberty. I've formed bonds with teammates, coaches, and the Liberty community that I'll carry forever.
Even those who've moved on to another program remain family.
We've faced countless highs and lows together, and that bond — built on shared struggles and victories — will never break.
Beyond relationships, I'm thankful for the chance to be part of Liberty's growth. I've seen this program evolve, and I feel a responsibility to leave it better than I found it.
That's the legacy I hope to leave: a teammate who put the team first and had a lasting, positive impact on and off the field.
I want my time here to mean something to those who follow.

Once a Flame, Always a Flame
Now, as I look toward the future, I have big dreams. I want to play at the next level, yes, but I also have ambitions beyond football.
I want to own a gym one day, become a business owner, and give back to my community.
I want to use the lessons I've learned at Liberty to support young athletes who might be struggling, just as I once did.
While I don't know exactly what lies ahead, I'm confident that God has a plan for me, both in football and in life.
I'm excited for whatever the future holds, but no matter where I go, I'll always carry Liberty with me.
This university has left an indelible mark on my life, and I'll always be grateful.
To Flames Nation, thank you for the unwavering support and love. Your encouragement has carried me through this journey, and I'm proud to be a part of this family.
In every tackle, every practice, every win, and every setback, Liberty has been my home.
I didn't stay here because it was easy or because I had no other options.
I stayed because Liberty shaped me into the person I am today.

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The Question Everyone Asks - Quinton Reese

Players Mentioned

Quinton Reese