Pellston High School’s football program is set to operate as an independent team for the 2026 season, shedding the constraints of a traditional conference schedule in favor of a curated slate of games that emphasizes both rivalry renewal and new challenges.
A New Chapter for the Hornets
The Hornets finished the previous season with a 3‑6 record and are eager to reverse a trend that has seen them endure a four‑game losing streak against longtime Ski Valley rival Gaylord St. Mary, a team that closed 2025 at 8‑3.
Their schedule features a mix of familiar foes and fresh opponents, including Alcona, Engadine, Hale, Eden Junction Superior Central, Rogers City, Brimley, Stephenson and Forest Area, each game presenting an opportunity to test the team’s progress.
A particular focus will be the Thursday night home opener against Engadine, where the Hornets hope to capture an early‑season victory, and the long‑awaited rematch with Alcona, a contest not seen in nearly five decades.
The matchup against Rogers City marks the first meeting in 14 years, while a road test against Brimley follows, a team that finished 4‑5 last year. The season will also see Pellston travel to face Stephenson for the first time ever, seeking a quality road win against the Eagles.
The final regular‑season game against Forest Area offers a chance to end a drought that has stretched since 2022, as the Warriors finished winless in 2025. Across the schedule, the Hornets aim to translate these varied challenges into early victories that could propel them into playoff contention.