GOLDSBORO, NC — City, county and state leaders joined community members Saturday to celebrate hometown hero Jarran Reed during a special event honoring the Super Bowl champion for both his athletic achievements and his continued commitment to giving back to his hometown.
The celebration, held at The Hub on March 7, brought together officials, local organizations and residents to recognize Reed’s success on the national stage and his lasting impact on the Goldsboro community.
Throughout the event, presenters from the city, county and state offered special recognitions and presentations highlighting Reed’s accomplishments in professional football and his dedication to supporting the community that helped shape him. Speakers emphasized that while Reed’s Super Bowl victory is a major milestone, his generosity and involvement in Goldsboro over the years make him equally deserving of recognition.
During the celebration, Reed addressed the crowd, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support from his hometown.
“Thank you so much. I also want to say this week has been really great. Today has been great, and I’ve really been feeling it all week, especially after the Super Bowl win. I really feel it in my heart,” Reed said.
“The support that I’ve seen from the city and what I’ve been able to experience means a lot to me. I’m not just playing for myself or my family — I’m playing for a whole city, and that’s something that’s right in my heart.”
Reed continued by thanking the community for its encouragement and recognition.
“I’m very appreciative of the entire city. It’s not just about me. The love, the appreciation, the congratulations, the proclamations, the applause — all the support and love means a lot,” he said.
“I’m out here really speaking from the heart when I say thank you for the love and support you all have shown. This day isn’t about me. It’s about love. It’s about the community. It’s about us — celebrating each other and rejoicing together. It’s about celebrating everybody’s love and everyone in the community.”
Another major honor for Reed is also on the horizon. Goldsboro High School announced that it will retire Reed’s No. 52 jersey during its alumni football game on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend. The special ceremony will take place at halftime, recognizing Reed’s accomplishments both on and off the field and cementing his legacy as one of the school’s most celebrated athletes.
The event at The Hub also featured a lively community festival atmosphere with more than 40 local vendors and a variety of family-friendly activities.
Families enjoyed bounce houses, games, giveaways food trucks and vendors along with face painting.
The celebration was made possible through sponsorship support from the City of Goldsboro, Where U At Park and Curtis Media.
Organizers said the event highlighted the pride Goldsboro residents share in Reed’s accomplishments and the connection he continues to maintain with the community that helped shape his journey to the NFL.
