CANFIELD, OH- With his senior year in full swing, linebacker Ezra Stahl of the Canfield Cardinals is making waves both on the football field and in the community. As the Cardinals gear up for the pivotal game against Poland, Stahl reflects on his journey and the future that lies ahead.

From the first snap of the season, Stahl has brought a level of maturity and focus that underscores his commitment to his team and himself. “This year, it’s a lot more business than usual,” said Stahl. “We’ve had our problems, but I believe in our senior class. We’re a small group, but very strong-willed.”

Transitioning from an overthinking junior to a take-charge senior, Stahl credits his ability to block out distractions and focus on what matters. “I’ve struggled with overthinking, especially on the football field. This year, I’ve just been telling myself to shut out that other voice and focus on doing the right thing,” he said.

Head coach at Canfield praises Stahl’s high character and leadership qualities, noting his shift from a vocal leader to one who leads by example. “Since day one in the off-season, I’ve been trying to show the guys that hard work will pay off in the end,” Stahl explained.

The upcoming game against Poland is especially significant for Stahl, who recalls attending his first high school football game back in 2015 when Canfield triumphed at Poland’s home ground. “That game made me want to play football from the start,” he reminisced. “Now, being a senior, this game holds even more importance.”

Beyond football, Stahl maintains an unwavering dedication to his academics and future aspirations. He’s eyeing a career in law, considering pre-law programs at YSU or Cleveland State, with interests in corporate and environmental law. “I just want to help people and use my skills to make a difference,” he said.

Raised in a household that values hard work, Stahl is greatly influenced by his mother and stepfather, both of whom have instilled in him the importance of perseverance and dedication. His stepfather, a coach for a Division VI program, commutes 1.5 hours daily, reinforcing the significance of commitment in Stahl’s life.

In addition to his ambitions in law, Stahl harbors an interest in bodybuilding, drawn to the sport’s intense self-discipline and the mentality of surpassing personal limits. “It’s a sport where it’s you versus you, and I like that aspect a lot,” he shared.

With his final high school chapter underway, Stahl aims to leave an indelible mark both on the field and in the classroom, embodying the qualities of resilience, leadership, and hard work that he hopes to pass on to future generations. “I want to help people see what it means to work hard and never back down, no matter what,” he concluded.

As the Canfield Cardinals prepare to face Poland, all eyes will be on Ezra Stahl—a young man whose journey is just beginning, but whose impact is already being deeply felt.

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