DOWNINGTOWN, PA — Downingtown High School East senior defensive lineman Abraham Sesay has been selected to compete in the 2027 Navy All-American Bowl on January 9 in San Antonio, Texas, earning one of 100 roster spots awarded nationally to high school football players.
The selection places Sesay among a limited group of athletes chosen from a national pool of more than one million high school football players, according to information released by the Downingtown Area School District.
NBC Sports and America’s Navy joined school officials for a recognition ceremony at Downingtown East, where Sesay was honored alongside his family, teammates, coaches and teachers.
The nationally televised game, now entering its 27th year, has featured more than 650 future NFL players, including athletes who have collectively earned more than 300 Pro Bowl selections and 100 Super Bowl championships.
Downingtown East will also be represented on the coaching staff. Head football coach Michael Matta has been selected as an assistant coach for the East squad in the 2027 game.
NBC Sports representative John Schmid served as master of ceremonies for the school presentation, joined by Downingtown East Principal Matt Barr and representatives of America’s Navy.
Schmid emphasized the role of the school’s athletic and academic community in Sesay’s development.
“We want to recognize people that supported Abraham along the way, because he couldn’t do this himself,” Schmid stated. “There’s no way that he could’ve reached the heights that he has without his teammates, teachers, administrators, the coaches, and relatives.”
Chief Engineman Kent Sarkkinen, representing America’s Navy, also addressed the importance of teamwork and recognized Downingtown East reading specialist Lauren Fortmann for her contribution to Sesay’s academic progress.
Sarkkinen presented Fortmann with an official Navy All-American football during the ceremony.
The event included a performance by the Downingtown East Pep Band and participation from cheerleaders, student section leaders and other members of the school community.
Sesay credited his family, coaches and teammates for their support throughout his high school career.
“It means the world for them–my coaches, teammates, and family–to be able to come and support me and to be there with me at such an honored thing,” Sesay stated. “They’ve been there with me since day one, and for them to still be here means the world to me.”
The 2027 Navy All-American Bowl is scheduled for Saturday, January 9, in San Antonio and will be broadcast live nationally on NBC.
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