Xenith, the Detroit-based manufacturer of football helmets and football equipment, appointed Izell Reese, president and CEO of RCX Sports to its Board of Directors.
“Over the last several years, I’ve worked closely with Xenith and have been impressed with their consistent growth, constant innovation, and dedication to developing the safest and most advance technologies for athletes,” said Reese. “Like RCX Sports, Xenith is committed to improving the lives of athletes through sports, and I look forward to helping them in their mission as a member of their board of directors.”
A former collegiate and professional athlete, Reese walked on the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s football team He was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1998 and spent seven years as an NFL safety and corner with the Cowboys, Denver Broncos, and Buffalo Bills.
Reese has dedicated his career to positively impacting the lives of youth athletes through sports and in 2019 created and launched RCX Sports, an experiential events business designed to engage youth athletes, families, and fans in new, innovative, and experiential ways.
Reese played an integral role in the discussions that led to RCX’s partnership with NFL FLAG. As the official operating partner of NFL FLAG, RCX now also oversees NFL FLAG leagues and tournament play, with special emphasis placed on providing support to local leagues and participant growth, specifically among girls. As part of the female participation growth, NFL FLAG helped orchestrate the launch of women’s flag football as a collegiate sport for NAIA and NJCAA.
Reese has also secured partnerships with professional leagues including the NHL, MLB, and Jr. NBA.
“I had the opportunity to meet Izell and was instantly blown away by his knowledge, enthusiasm, sincerity, and determination to build the next generation of productive citizens through youth sports,” said Tony Saunders, chief executive officer, Xenith. “Adding a person of his character and caliber is a big win for Xenith. I’m beyond excited to witness the impact that Izell will have for those that wear our product while strengthening our brand.”
“There are very few people in youth sports who have accomplished more than Izell,” Saunders continued. “From growing the game of flag football, along with guiding it to become a women’s college sport, Izell is an agent for positive change. We’re happy to have him be a part of the Xenith family.”
