Under the bright lights of Lorain County Community College, former Elyria Catholic quarterback Danny Reaser was formally inducted into the Elyria Sports Hall of Fame on Saturday, May 3, 2025. For those who followed his high school career, the honor felt inevitable—but for those who know him, it was personal.
Reaser, a 2011 graduate, didn’t just lead on the field—he redefined what was possible for a Panther quarterback. He still holds the county record for single-season passing yards (3,788), single-season touchdowns (38), and career passing yards (7,107). With 69 career touchdown passes, he turned Friday night lights into a showcase of precision, grit, and leadership.
But numbers only tell part of the story. During his time at Elyria Catholic, Reaser became known for his poise under pressure—none more memorable than the dramatic win over Elyria High, where he threw for 508 yards and six touchdowns, including a 78-yard strike on a gutsy fourth-down play.
A three-time All-Lorain County and All-District selection, Reaser was named the Cleveland Touchdown Club Offensive Player of the Year in 2010 and the WOBL Player of the Year. He threw for 300+ yards in seven games that season, including five games with at least five touchdowns.
But perhaps the most lasting measure of his success was a decision made off the field. As his father, Dan Reaser Sr., shared in a personal conversation, Danny was heavily recruited by major Division I schools—but ultimately chose to stay close to home and invest in his community. That choice, more than any touchdown pass, spoke volumes about his character.
That same spirit of community investment was visible throughout the evening. The Reaser family’s impact on Elyria athletics extends well beyond Danny’s playing days. The very ballroom where the induction was held has benefited from their generosity, and their long-standing support of local athletic programs is woven into the fabric of Elyria’s sports culture. From facilities to scholarships to quiet acts of support behind the scenes, the Reaser family has been a steady, guiding light for generations of athletes.
You could feel it in the room—this wasn’t just another banquet. It was personal. The emotion, the warmth, and the genuine pride that radiated throughout the ballroom were a reflection of a family that has given back at every turn. Their fingerprints were on every detail, and their presence made the moment even more meaningful.
When Reaser took the stage, his speech reflected humility, perspective, and a deep sense of gratitude:
“When I first received the call that I was being inducted, I couldn’t wait to tell my family—especially my two boys. They’re here tonight, and I’m grateful they’re old enough to remember this. Hearing them tell their buddies that their dad is going into the Hall of Fame is one of the proudest moments of my life.”
He reflected on the challenges he faced—including the passing of his aunt just two days after that iconic 2010 Elyria High game—and the support of teammates and coaches who helped him grow.
“That moment taught me how to overcome adversity. Football is not an individual sport. I wouldn’t be up here today without my teammates, coaches, and family.”
Reaser also acknowledged former coaches, including Paul Cunningham, Ben Malbasa, and Tim Robertson, crediting them with trusting him as a leader early in his career. He honored his late grandfather, Cecil Reaser, saying:
“One of his biggest hopes and dreams for me was to be inducted into this Hall of Fame. He taught me so much. I wouldn’t be here without him.”
His induction is not just a celebration of stats—but of legacy, leadership, and loyalty to his hometown. As the crowd rose in applause, it was clear—Danny Reaser’s place in the record books was already secure. Now, his place in the Hall is too.
I have had the pleasure of meeting and spending time with both Danny and his family. He is a thoughtful and soft spoken young man, whose commitment to community and family speak volumns of his maturity and character. I know the EC and Elyria community are proud to have him recognized for his extraordinary play on the field, but his family is most proud of devotion to them. Good Man!!!!!