Express announce addition of 2x National Champion John Reay - Regional Scout

The Erie Express are pleased to announce the addition of John Reay to our 2023 coaching staff. John begins his first season with the Express and will serve as our Northeast Regional Scout.

John brings with him over 20 years of knowledge and experience ranging from the high school to the professional ranks.

John spent 10 seasons as a player with stops with the Raiders, Panthers and Disciples. John held team records for INT's in a game (4) and season (11). Reay spent 3 seasons playing pro indoor for the Panthers, Rebels and Wildcatz.

John is no stranger to the professional development ranks having served as the owner of the WPA Wildcatz for 9 seasons. During that time John's Wildcatz amassed an impressive 121-18 record. Along the way the Wildcatz were ranked in the top 10 in the nation 7 of their 9 seasons. They captured 2 National Championship Bowl game victories (2016 & 2017) with victories over the Detroit Ravens and NY Sting. The Wildcatz finished the 2016 & 2017 seasons as the #1 ranked team in the country. The Wildcatz were 2x PAFL League Champions. WPA was not limited to just outdoor success, they were equally impressive indoors capturing 2 indoor championships and finishing with a #1 ranking in the nation in Indoor Minor League Football. 

John also served as the owner for one season of the Penn Ohio Indoor Football League. He was invited to and worked the National European Combine in Indianapolis in 2015.

Along the way John was able to help over 15 of his players sign pro contracts to play indoors and an additional 5 earn a spot on college teams.

John currently serves as the Head Football Coach at Kennedy Catholic High School where he has been for the past two seasons. Prior to joining Kennedy Catholic, John coached three seasons at Valley High School where he served as the Defensive Line Coach, Linebackers and Offensive Coordinator and one season at Burrell High School coaching defensive backs and running backs.

John is a graduate of Sharon, HS where he was a 4 year letter winner and played a major role in the Tigers winning 4 District Championships during his high school career. Upon graduation John attended Youngstown State University and Transport Tech where he earned his CDL. John is also the owner of WPASPORTSWEARS.COM so do not hesitate to contact them for all you team needs.

"We are very excited to have John on board with us. He is a proven winner. Everywhere he goes success follows. His record as a player owner and coach speaks for itself. The Wildcatz for years were the epitome of excellence, not only in PA but the entire nation. John's schedule will not allow him to be here on a daily basis but his expertise in evaluating talent, game day preparation and film study are sure to benefit us greatly. John has been at this a long time and understands what it takes to succeed. It has always been bigger than just a game in Erie and John is a great addition to that mindset. He has always had his players best interest at heart and that is one of the biggest things I admire about him. We are blessed to have him on board and are looking forward to an amazing 2023 season with his help"-Director of Operations Paul Pennington.

John is a resident of Glenshaw, Pa (Pittsburgh) with his wife Amber and their three children, Jazelle (18), Anastasia (9) and Alexander John "AJ" Reay (6)

Welcome aboard the PAINTRAIN Coach Reay! GO EXPRESS!

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