Leading Through Action: CaMari Reese Ready to Leave His Mark for the Cardinals

June 29, 2026
The Nest, Inside Orchard View Sports
By: Justin Troyer 
Presented by:

MUSKEGON, Mich -- When asked about who the impact players are this football season, Orchard View Head Coach Aaron James didn't hesitate to identify CaMari Reese as one of those key players.

Reese celebrates
with a teammate

Reese capable of making an impact on both sides of the football, as a Running Back and in the Defensive Backfield.  Reese enters the season carrying the same goal shared by every player across the state, bringing a state championship trophy back to Orchard View.  A feat that has only been accomplished once in 2004 when the Cardinals defeated DeWitt.

Leadership is about much more than statistics or highlights. It's about setting the standard every day and helping those around the program to become better players and people.

"Lead by example, and make my teammates around me better," Reese said when asked about his role on the team this season.

That mindset has made Reese a player his teammates can count on.  Whether carrying the football, making plays in the secondary, or encouraging younger players, he understands that leadership is earned through actions rather than words.

The junior believes the influence of a student-athlete extends beyond the football field.

"I want to positively impact people through my actions," Reese said.

Those words reflect the culture that Orchard View Head Coach Aaron James and his staff continue to build—a culture centered on accountability, hard work, and representing the Cardinal community with pride.

As the Cardinals chase their championship aspirations this fall, Reese knows every practice, every rep, and every game is an opportunity to set an example. His message is simple: be proud of who you are and how you represent yourself in everything you do.

With his determination, leadership, and team-first attitude, CaMari Reese is poised to be a major contributor for the Cardinals in 2026, and 2027. More importantly, he is becoming the kind of leader who leaves a lasting impact on those around him.

The journey toward a state title begins this fall, and Reese plans to lead the way—one play, one example, and one opportunity at a time.

Community Contributors: Poo Patrol Muskegon