Raised in the heartland of football country in Miami, Oklahoma, Deerfield Football Captain Christian Reavis ’23 knew early on that he absolutely loved the game. A dedicated Sooners fan, like so many Oklahomans, Reavis was surrounded by crimson-and-cream and pigskins from toddlerhood. Oklahoma has bred many legendary linebackers like Brian Bosworth and Teddy Lehman, and from the looks of it, Reavis may be following in their footsteps.
Reavis’ football journey started in 5th grade, but he explained, “I wanted to play when I was younger than that, but my parents said no. My team wasn’t that good, but I loved being out there, playing a team sport, and feeling a part of a whole.”
Reavis’ dedication to his team is one of his core qualities. His eyes lit up when he spoke about it: “I love the team culture! Everyone is trying to get better and do what they need to do to contribute. They take it upon themselves to do that.”
Offensive lineman and Reavis’s co-captain, Caleb Kirkpatrick ’24, elaborated, “Being a captain means being responsible for the team. At Deerfield, players are constantly trying to improve and do their own thing, which makes the captain’s position easier. We all rely on each other.”
This extends beyond the field to daily life. Reavis said, “Being captain hasn’t changed how I approach the game, but I feel more responsibility because more people come to you for advice.”
Reavis has filled these shoes and been a reliable mentor for all of his teammates. In that way, he has learned and replicated many of Head Football Coach Brian Barbato’s great leadership qualities. Reavis said, “Coach Bato is the best. He is a great motivator and is invested in everyone.”
Creating team culture starts with leadership and tradition. Reavis talked about what brings the team together: “I love Milk and Cookies (the ritual where the players gather before game-day). The team feels like a family, and we all give motivational speeches.”
Despite two tough losses at the start of the season, the team remains optimistic about the future. Reavis expressed his hope, saying, “We are really proud of this team because our season hasn’t been the easiest, but everyone has been hopeful and dedicated since the first practice.” The team has upcoming games against Suffield, Salisbury, Loomis, Exeter, Andover, Cheshire, and Choate.
Reavis’ leadership has greatly encouraged the football team’s tight-knit team culture and will be missed next year when he continues his football career at Williams College.
