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MECHANICSBURG— Two of Schuylkill County’s best football players hit the field for some high school football action one more time.

Marian Catholic’s Michael Gelatko and North Schuylkill’s Gavin Mentzer competed in the 68th annual Pennsylvania vs Maryland Big 33 football All-Star game Sunday night at Cumberland Valley’s Chapman Field.

“The excitement level was unreal,” said Gelatko. “It was probably the most hyped up I been for a game in a long time.”

Marian Catholic’s Michael Gelatko competes in the annual 68th Big 33 game. Photo By Toron JamesNorth Schuylkill’s Gavin Mentzer competed in the 68th annual Big 33 game. Photo By Toron James

The Big 33 game includes alumni that consists of Joe Montana, Jim Kelly, Dan Marino, Tony Dorsett, Ben Roethlisberger and more. The Big 33 also has a 59-year streak with an alumni player competing in the NFL super bowl.

Team Pennsylvania fell to Maryland, 42-21, in an entertaining game with elite talent on the field. Even with the loss Gelatko and Mentzer had an experience to remember.

“It didn’t end the way we wanted it,” said Gelatko. “But it was a good experience being able to get with a host family and be a part of their family for a week. Also, playing with some of the best players from PA.”

“It was a fun experience,” said Mentzer. “Just meeting the new people and meeting my guys in the special teams room. It was an endless experience.”

The two represented Schuylkill County well. Gelatko got the start at tight end and Mentzer got the start as punter and holder.

Mentzer thought he could have done better on some of his punts as he punted the ball three times on the night. Mentzer stated he will take that motivation with him to the next level at Indiana University of Pennsylvania where he will play football.

Gelatko enjoyed practicing with the best and playing with the best throughout the week with team Pennsylvania.

“Anytime you play really good talent you are going to get better,” said Gelatko. “It was a really good week. I learned a lot and got better.”

Being on the field and representing their school and county meant a lot for the two.

“It’s a blessing.,” said Mentzer. “It’s something I can represent my school, community and county with. Anything that I could do just to prove that Schuylkill league ball is great ball.”

As one chapter closes another opens. The two will soon hit the field for college ball in the future.

Gelatko will take off in two weeks for football at Buffalo University. Mentzer will take off for Indiana University of Pennsylvania in the fall.

Marian Catholic football standout Michael Gelatko, seated second from right, signs his letter of intent, Wednesday, to attend the University of Buffalo. Seated with Michael are his grandparents Richard Gould and Karen Gould, parents Mickey and Kristen Gelatko and his sister Lexi. Standing, from left, are: Pete Sanfilippo, Marian athletic director, Billy O’Gurek, the Colts’ head coach, and Michael Brennan, Marian Head of School.(John Haeger / Staff Photographer)North Schuylkill senior kicker Gavin Mentzer signs his national letter of intent to play college football at the University of Indiana Pennsylvania Friday at North Schuylkill. Front row (l to r): Greg Mentzer, father; Gavin; Owen Mentzer, brother; and Tara Mentzer, mother. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

“I cant even express how excited I am,” said Mentzer. “It’s the next chapter in my life. I just cant wait to show them the player I am and represent my community.”