Running back Devwah Whaley was presented with an Under Armour All America jersey on Thursday afternoon, in a ceremony sponsored by American Family Insurance and pep rally attended by friends, family and the entire Beaumont Central High student body.

Thursday’s ceremony was a reminder that dreams do, and can come true.

“It’s a blessing,” said Whaley. “It’s always been a dream of mine to play in the Under Armour All-America Game since I started playing football. I’m fortunate, and want to thank God for the opportunity.”

#ESPN300 RB @devwah_whaley receives Under Armour @AllAmericaGame jersey. @BmtEnterprise @kfdmnews pic.twitter.com/hsrthDt5l6

— Gerry Hamilton (@HamiltonESPN) November 5, 2015

The nation's No. 3-ranked running back and No. 49-ranked prospect overall is the first from Beaumont Central High to be selected to the prestigious game.

“I think it’s something big. To receive more recognition for our school and community means a lot around here. It’s a blessing for all of us in the community.”

The two-sport star who has also qualified for the state track championships became more focused on football as a freshman. He’s a testament that hard work and desire can pay off.

“I would say my freshman year was when I started liking football more, and I started working harder," Whaley said. "I worked really hard to achieve this goal.”

On the recruiting front, the 6-foot, 195-pound running back is down to four schools with a visit to College Station on tap this weekend.

“Right now, I want to finish taking my visits. I have Texas A&M this weekend, Arkansas November 21 and will probably take Texas in December. Probably that’s it for me, and I will be ready to announce at the Under Armour All-America Game.”

Five questions with Devwah Whaley:

What player are you looking forward to competing with or against in the Under Armour All-America Game?

I hope Greg Little and Rashan Gary are on my team, I will say that. Having Greg Little block for me would ne nice.

If you could start a team with any player in your class, who would it be and why?

I would have to say Shea Patterson. You have to start it all with a good quarterback.

Which football player did you watch as a kid?

I would say Marshawn Lynch and Adrian Peterson because of their styles they have. Especially Adrian Peterson.

If you could take on any pro in their sport, who would it be and why?

Has to be LeBron James because he’s the best basketball player in the world, and who he is as a person and what he’s accomplished. It would be great to say I went up against him.

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

A lot of people don’t know I’m half Bermudian. My dad was a quarter-miler and almost qualified for the Olympics. I lived in Bermuda in the fifth grade.