Peninsula senior Stolz named starting linebacker for all-state game

Peninsula High School senior Chance Stolz has been selected as the starting middle linebacker for the East team in the all-state football game in July.

His selection marks the 20th consecutive year a Peninsula player has been named as either an Associated Press all-state player or has been selected for the all-state game. The exact date and where this year’s game will be played have not been announced yet.

“We have a lot of pride in Chance keeping that streak alive,” Peninsula coach Ross Filkins said.

Each league (in this case, the Class 3A South Puget Sound League) nominates seniors, which then goes to a state coaches association committee. Stolz garnered the respect of coaches around the highly-competitive SPSL 3A with his tenacious play this season.

“It’s good to know that they notice the work I’ve put in for four years,” Stolz said. “It’s good to see it’s finally paid off and noticed by our competitors. That’s what I’m most proud of. They think I’m that good. It’s good to know I left that impression.”

Filkins was happy to see Stolz earn the recognition.

“To be selected to represent your state, it’s a huge honor,” Filkins said. “To be one of the very best players recognized and for him to get one more game and represent our community is huge. The great thing about Chance, in addition to being a great football player, is his versatility. He can also play fullback, tight end, O-line, and he’s a very good long snapper. For him to be able to show that versatility and also be a first class kid, he has the character attributes for someone we want to represent our community.”

Stolz said he’s excited for the opportunity to pit himself against the best players in the state.

“I want to go off,” Stolz said. “That’s what I think is exciting. I’m going to be playing against the very best in the state. That’s what I always strive for.”

Stolz is currently spending his time on the wrestling mat, where he looks one of the favorites to win the Class 3A state title in the 195-pound weight class. Stolz still isn’t sure where he’ll end up next season for college, but said he wants to keep playing football.

“He’s going to continue playing football,” Filkins said. “I’m sure he is.”

Gig Harbor High School free safety Kale Wong and receiver Noah Samsen were also selected for the game.

This story was originally published February 3, 2016 at 1:44 PM with the headline "Peninsula senior Stolz named starting linebacker for all-state game."