PONDEROSA, Calif. Alex Stohl spent last season watching, learning and waiting for his opportunity. Now that his opportunity has arrived, the Ponderosa High School cornerback is making the most of it.
Through five games this season, Stohl has allowed just one reception for three yards while recording 18 tackles, an interception and a blocked punt. His production reflects the confidence and preparation he developed during a season spent behind an accomplished cornerback who went on to play at the Division II level.
Rather than allowing a year on the sideline to discourage him, Stohl used it as an opportunity to study the position and prepare himself for the moment when his number would be called.
That experience has shaped one of the biggest messages he wants other athletes to understand: where a player starts does not determine where they finish.
For Stohl, that mentality is particularly important at cornerback. The position demands confidence, resilience and the ability to move on immediately from one play to the next. He approaches every matchup believing he can compete with whoever lines up across from him.
Now contributing to Ponderosa’s defense, Stohl has his sights set beyond high school football. His goal is to earn an opportunity to play at the next level and make an impact wherever his career takes him.
After spending last season waiting and learning, Stohl is showing what can happen when preparation finally meets opportunity.
