Manawa running back to play college ball

By Holly Neumann

Manawa senior Luke Wilz is headed to the University of Wisconsin-Stout to play football.

He signed his letter of intent to play football at Manawa school Jan. 8.

“We are very excited to have Luke play for us next year,” UW-Stout coach Clayt Birmingham said. “We like his style of being a downhill, physical running back. He is a high-character young man that will represent us well on and off the field.”

Wilz is excited for the opportunity.

“Most high school football players don’t get the opportunity to play a sport they love at the collegiate level,” he said. “I find I am very fortunate and hope I live up to the expectations that the UW-Stout coaches have of me.”

Several coaches made in impact on him as an athlete.

“Various coaches that I have had throughout the years have all taught me something that I will carry with me,” he said. “Coach Bob Sell has been with me the longest and I can say I have learned so much from him.”

Football to Wilz is not just a game. For him, it’s about a team that ends up being family.

“You fight for your family and want only the best for your family,” he said. “Coach Sell was always an example of this.”

Sell believes Wilz will be successful at whatever he does.

“I not only had the blessing to be Luke’s coach, but also have had the opportunity to see him perform in basketball, baseball and band,” Sell said. “I trust that this young man will continue to play hard and work hard. He will make a difference in this world.”

Wilz will major in plastics engineering.