MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) – Three Mitchell High School football players have earned All-Eastern South Dakota Conference honors following the 2026 season.
Gavin Zilla, Owen Schelske and Rocky Clark were named to the All-Conference team Monday, Nov. 2, recognizing their contributions to the Kernels’ football program this fall.
Zilla, a senior kicker who also competed for Mitchell’s boys soccer team, made an immediate impact on special teams. One of his biggest moments came during Mitchell’s 23-22 double-overtime victory over Watertown, when he connected on a crucial field goal in the first overtime and added an extra point in the second overtime.
Schelske, a junior offensive and defensive lineman, was a key part of Mitchell’s experienced offensive front. A team captain, Schelske helped establish the Kernels’ rushing attack while contributing on defense throughout the season.
Clark, a senior two-way lineman, provided leadership and physical play along both lines of scrimmage. His biggest highlight came against Watertown when he blocked a potential game-tying extra point in double overtime, securing one of Mitchell’s biggest victories of the season.
Under head coach Pat Larson, the Kernels finished the season with a 4-6 record and qualified for the Class 11AA playoffs for the first time since 2021.
Mitchell’s season concluded Oct. 29 with a 47-7 quarterfinal loss to top-seeded Pierre T.F. Riggs.
The three All-Conference selections provide a positive conclusion to a season that saw Mitchell return to postseason football.