Stillwater's Nate Ricci and Derrick Thingvold have been selected to play in the 40th Annual Minnesota High School All-Star Football Game. The game will be held at St. Cloud State University’s Husky Stadium on June 29 and is sponsored by and conducted by the Minnesota Football Coaches Association.

Ricci, a 2-time MVP who played quarterback for the Ponies most of the season, will line up at receiver for the North team.

“Nate is one of the most accomplished football players in Stillwater Area High School history,” Ponies coach Beau LaBore said. “Whether he is in the backfield, perimeter or deep in special teams, we think Nate will make a big difference in the outcome.”

Thingvold, a 6-foot-7, 240-pound offensive lineman for the Ponies will also being suiting up for the North.

“Derrick has come on strong in the latter part of his football career,” LaBore said. “As a junior he played tight end for us occasionally. As a senior, he moved to guard and became one of the best blockers in the conference.”

Both Ricci and Thingvold will be taking their games to the college level: Ricci at UM-Duluth and Thingvold at Winona State University.

“This game will be a good measuring stick for Nate and Derrick as they prepare for Division II football,” LaBore said. “Both young men have dedicated themselves to Ponies football and were integral to our conference championship team. There is no doubt they will represent Stillwater with pride.”

Ricci and Thingvold will become the 54th and 55th Ponies to take part in the all-star game.