Kansas City, KS – Reggie Reece was a standout running back at Mill Valley High School with college football offers already on the table. But two serious knee injuries threatened to derail his dream of playing at the next level. After undergoing surgery on both knees and months of rehabilitation, Reggie fought his way back with help from his care team at The University of Kansas Health System. Today, he's a freshman running back at Northwest Missouri State University, where he's redshirting this season and has earned a spot-on special teams.
Reggie Reece, Patient
At 6-foot-2 and nearly 240 pounds, the former Mill Valley running back had already attracted college football offers before his senior season.
Reggie injured his left knee during a summer scrimmage and continued playing before suffering a second injury to his right knee.
He underwent two knee surgeries followed by months of rehabilitation, uncertain whether he would ever return to the same level of play.
He shares the physical and mental challenges of recovery, including rebuilding his confidence in his ability to run and take hits again.
He credits his medical team and athletic trainer with helping him return to football.
He is now a freshman at Northwest Missouri State University, where he's redshirting this season and has joined the special-teams unit.
Dr. Bryan Vopat, Orthopedic Sports Medicine Surgeon, The University of Kansas Health System
Dr. Vopat explains Reggie's two injuries: a meniscus root tear in his left knee and an MCL tear in his right knee, and why both required surgeries.
He discusses the challenges of treating two injured knees and helping a young athlete safely return to a contact sport.
He explains how physicians determine when an athlete is ready to return to competition following knee surgery.
He discusses how parents and coaches can distinguish normal soreness from an injury that requires medical attention.
He addresses the potential long-term effects of significant knee injuries, including arthritis, and the role proper treatment and rehabilitation play in recovery.
He explains whether knee braces, compression bands and strength training can help reduce injury risk or provide support.
Jake Brownback, Athletic Trainer, The University of Kansas Health System
Jake worked directly with Reggie at Mill Valley High School, helping evaluate his injuries and guide his recovery.
He discusses the importance of recognizing when an athlete needs medical attention rather than continuing to play through pain.
He explains how athletic trainers help student athletes balance their desire to return to competition with the need for proper healing.
He describes Reggie's work ethic and determination throughout recovery, including the qualities he believes give Reggie an "it" factor.
He shares warning signs parents should watch for when young athletes may be hiding injuries or pushing through significant pain.
He offers guidance for families whose schools do not have an athletic trainer available.
John McMenamin, Head Football Coach, Northwest Missouri State University
John continued to believe in Reggie's potential despite the injuries that threatened his college football career.
He says Reggie's high school performance and determination made him worth taking a chance on.
He praises Reggie's work ethic and says he looks better than ever following his surgeries.
He says Reggie has regained his confidence and is demonstrating his abilities every day.
He believes Reggie has the potential to become a significant contributor to the Northwest Missouri State football program.