Amyr Wilford shine as Youth Spotlight recipient

This week’s Youth Spotlight shines on Amyr Wilford, a standout student-athlete who shows dedication both on and off the field.

Wilford is a tenth-grade student who attends Reitz High School. He enjoys playing varsity football while also serving as a role model to his peers. Alongside his schoolwork, football, track and field, he coaches youth basketball with friends, sharing the skills he learned from other star coaches in the area. 

“I enjoy playing with my friends and competing against others,” Wilford said. “I enjoy coaching because it is a way to give back to youth and teach them the game and how to be a good teammate.”

His passion for lending his skills to others stems from his own challenges in being doubted that he could play football because of his size. He expressed that only his mother believed in him. With that motherly love ingrained in his mind and trust in God, Wilford tried out for the team and earned his spot. 

Looking ahead, Wilford hopes to play football and run track at the Division 1 level to earn a spot on an NFL team—even having dreams of possibly becoming an Olympian. Of all his dreams and aspirations, Wilford says he mainly wants to repay his mom for what she has done for him. 

“She has been my rock always, pushing and encouraging me to be the best version of myself athletically and educationally,” he said. 

His list of achievements, awards, and milestones includes: WREF 97.7/ESPN Radio Player of the Game 2025 and 2026, Downtown Quarterback All-City Team 2025 and 2026, Downtown QB All-City Team MVP 2026, Courier and Press MVP 2025, FJ Reitz record book most rushing TDs in a game 2026 5 TDs, made it to State in track 2025 for 100m.