On September 1, the Mitchell High School football team commenced their season with a promising performance, defeating the Brookings Bobcats 28-13. This victory not only marked the Kernels' first win against a team other than Douglas since October 19, 2023, but it also signified a crucial turning point for a program that has faced challenges in recent years.
As the final whistle blew, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of accomplishment, though the celebration was tempered. After enduring a tough stretch with a combined record of 2-16 over the past two seasons, the Kernels were aware that this victory was just the beginning of their journey. Head coach Pat Larson noted, "They were excited, absolutely, but they understood it was the first step to something bigger." This sentiment reflects a mature mindset within the team, recognizing the importance of building on this success.
Junior lineman Owen Schelske echoed this sentiment, stating, "This is a big win, and it’s a big step in the right direction. We’ve just got to keep it rolling." The Kernels are not just celebrating this victory; they are focused on maintaining their momentum as they prepare for the challenges ahead in the season.
Despite the positive outcome, the game was not without its flaws. The Kernels faced issues such as untimely penalties and missed assignments, which could have allowed them to extend their lead further. For instance, Brookings struck first with a 75-yard touchdown run on the opening play, highlighting an area for improvement in Mitchell's defensive strategy. Additionally, a delay of game penalty after a timeout disrupted a potential scoring opportunity in the second half.
However, the resilience displayed by the Kernels in the face of these setbacks is a testament to their growth. Coach Larson emphasized the belief the players have in each other and in the program's vision, stating, "These kids believe in each other and believe in the message that we’ve been preaching." This unity is crucial as they aim to transform their fortunes into sustained success.
Offensively, the Kernels showcased a powerful ground game, amassing a total of 303 rushing yards shared among six ball carriers, with four players reaching the end zone. The offensive line's performance was instrumental in this achievement, consistently creating openings for the backs. Defensively, Mitchell limited Brookings to 259 total yards and just seven first downs, with half of the Bobcats' yardage coming from two explosive plays.
Senior lineman Bryer Stach remarked on the team's improvement, attributing it to their hard work in the offseason, stating, "I really just think we’re a lot better. Our guys are bigger, stronger and faster, all-in-one, compared to years past." This newfound strength and cohesion could be pivotal as the Kernels aim to return to the postseason for the first time since 2021.
While one victory in August does not define a season, it provides a solid foundation for the Kernels to build upon. Coach Larson expressed optimism about the team's performance, saying, "It was great to see our kids come out and see where we stack up. Now we have to figure out the areas where we can improve for next week and beyond." With eight more games ahead, the Kernels are poised to continue their progress and strive for a successful season.
Leave a Comment