The Annual Battle for the Hill

The rivalry between PVHS and Pen has always existed. Although these schools are only about 5 miles apart, students from each school have deep pride and take the rivalry very seriously.

The annual PVHS vs Pen football game is arguably the most competitive event between both schools. The game has been played since 2003 and has become a classic tradition on the hill.

“[The rivalry is] kind of natural, you’ve got kids who’ve grown up together for the most part and I think it’s a healthy rivalry,” said Varsity football coach Guy Gardner.

“These guys respect each other. Yes, they want to defeat each other in the game but I think ultimately they know each other and respect each other.”

After a heartbreaking loss in the CIF playoffs last season, PV has bounced back with an undefeated record in Bay League. This year there has been a lack of older and experienced players on the team and underclassmen have had to step up and mature.

“The strongest part of our football team is the defense in my eyes, because we have a workhorse mentality and have Coach Hud who feeds us the answers to succeed,” said Senior and Varsity football captain, Justin Martz. “Being a leader for our young varsity teammates has had its challenges but also has been entertaining.”

Pen’s football program has also been doing well under their fairly new coaching staff. Ever since their season was abruptly ended by school administration in 2015, it has been great to see the Panthers play again.

“I think this team has put in a lot of work through the off season and into the season,” said Aidan Kuykendall, Peninsula senior Varsity football captain. “We want to protect our home field.”

An interesting trend this season for the Panthers was the emergence of numerous seniors joining the team for the first time. Ronald Seiter, a senior who played baseball for his first three years at Peninsula, spontaneously joined the football team this season.

“I wanted to make my senior year fun and thought playing football would be a good way to do so,” he said.

The game will be held tomorrow after school at Peninsula High School.