Kevin Reddick, the centerpiece of New Bern's march to the N.C. High School Athletic Association 4-AA state football championship, committed to the University of North Carolina on Sunday while making his official visit.

The 6-foot-2, 210-pound middle linebacker led New Bern through the playoffs, capped by a 28-17 win over Charlotte Independence in the title game.

"He is put together like you would like a football player," New Bern coach Bob Curlings said. "He has the size, the speed, the agility and the intelligence to be a great football player. He has great football sense and can read things on the field."

Curlings said he didn't know of a better player in the state.

"But more than his football ability, he is a better person than he is a football player," Curlings said.

Reddick's recruitment basically came down to North Carolina and South Carolina, after he told Alabama recruiters that Tuscaloosa was too far from home. East Carolina was an option, too.

"Kevin had a great visit to Chapel Hill and got his questions answered," Curlings said. "I think Carolina was his favorite, but his visit solidified his decision."

New Bern marched through the 4-AA playoffs, defeating Sanderson 48-20, Athens Drive 48-7, Millbrook 40-38 (with Reddick scoring on a 1-yard run as time expired. He earlier returned an interception for a score) and Leesville Road 20-10. Reddick scored on a pass reception and a run in the title game and was named New Bern's offensive player of the game. He made six tackles, including two for losses.

"Kevin has great instincts," Curlings said. "He made big plays all of the time. He was outstanding on defense, but he made big plays for us on offense, too."

Reddick also started at inside linebacker for North Carolina's Shrine Bowl squad, leading the team with seven tackles.