

Miss The Trees For The Forest: Reginald Beverly
FEA
TURE
Reginald Beverly, born March 24, 1956, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, grew up in a bustling household filled with love, laughter, and lessons. As the youngest of six siblings, Reginald learned resilience early. His playful antics—like sneakily brushing peas into his shoes to avoid eating them—were balanced by a precocious discipline on the football field, a place where he felt most at home. Guided by his mother, Alberta Brown-Washington, and inspired by community mentors, Reggie began carving his path as a leader even before stepping into adolescence.
The streets of New Smyrna Beach became his training ground after his family relocated from Philadelphia. Attending Chisholm Elementary and New Smyrna Beach High School, Reggie displayed an uncanny ability to lead as quarterback. Though smaller in stature than most of his teammates, he had a heart and tenacity that outshone them all. Under the mentorship of figures like Alonzo Babe James and Jimmy Lee Hives, Reggie not only excelled athletically but also embraced the importance of giving back—a lesson that would define his life.
After high school, Reggie journeyed westward to Langston University in Oklahoma. However, the fit wasn’t perfect, and he soon transferred to Bethune-Cookman College in Daytona Beach, Florida. Here, Reggie truly came into his own, earning the nickname "The Magician" for his awe-inspiring performances on the field. Standing just 5'7" and weighing 128 pounds, he shattered stereotypes and records, proving that determination could outmatch any physical limitation. It was at Bethune-Cookman that Reggie met Kimberly, the love of his life, who would become his partner in both marriage and community service.
After their marriage, Reggie and Kimberly became a powerhouse in their community. They spearheaded initiatives to provide scholarships and financial aid to local youth, often working late into the night to ensure no child was left behind. “Behind every great man is an even greater woman,” Reggie often says of Kimberly, who not only supported his efforts but also championed causes of her own. Together, they became a beacon of hope for families striving for a better future.
Reggie’s passion for mentoring extended far beyond football. He coached softball, basketball, and even the rising sport of pickleball. His coaching career reached international heights with NFL Europe’s Berlin Thunder, but his heart remained rooted in New Smyrna Beach. There, he inspired generations of athletes and non-athletes alike, encouraging them to strive for excellence on and off the field.

Behind every great man is an even greater woman.
Reggie’s journey wasn’t without challenges. During his freshman year as Bethune-Cookman’s quarterback, he faced unexpected hurdles, including misaligned snap counts orchestrated by some teammates. While these moments tested his patience and resolve, they also solidified his determination. Despite being underestimated due to his size, Reggie’s perseverance and adaptability became his greatest strengths, lessons he would later impart to countless young athletes.
Even in retirement, Reggie remains a cornerstone of his community. As part of the Westside Retirees of New Smyrna Beach, he organizes summer programs for middle schoolers, offering paid opportunities to learn, grow, and explore. His efforts have provided countless youths with safe spaces to thrive during critical years of their development.
Reggie’s impact isn’t limited to sports. Whether mentoring young coaches, introducing pickleball to curious teens, or organizing field trips for local youth, his influence resonates across age groups. “Coach Beverly” is a name synonymous with trust, encouragement, and an unwavering commitment to uplift others.
From snacks at 7/11 to impromptu life lessons, Reggie’s seemingly small acts of kindness have left indelible marks. Adults who grew up under his mentorship still recall his efforts with gratitude and affection. His ability to connect with people—young or old—transcends titles and accomplishments, rooted instead in his genuine care for others.
Reggie Beverly’s story is one of triumph, tenacity, and selflessness. His life serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring impact of giving back. As he continues to inspire, mentor, and serve, Reggie embodies the essence of a life well-lived: one that leaves the world brighter than he found it.
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