Next in Line: SD1 Underclassmen All-Conference Selections

Special District 1 offers one of the most unique landscapes in Oregon high school football, blending traditional 5A programs with select 6A schools from the Northwest Oregon Conference into a highly competitive, unpredictable schedule. The 2025 season saw Hood River Valley rise to the top of the standings behind a balanced and physical roster, while Milwaukie and Gresham remained strong contenders throughout league play. Depth across the conference created tight matchups each week, with several teams capable of pulling off upsets on any given Friday night. Despite multiple teams earning postseason berths, Special District 1 faced a difficult playoff path, with Gresham, Milwaukie, and Hood River Valley all exiting in the first round against tough competition. Still, the future of the district looks bright as several freshmen and sophomores earned all-conference honors and proved they belong at the varsity level. This edition of Next in Line highlights the underclassmen already making their mark and positioning themselves as future leaders within the conference.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">First Team</h2>    Atwal emerged as one of the conference's most impactful two-way underclassmen, earning recognition for his playmaking ability in the secondary while also contributing offensively. His four interceptions highlight strong instincts, ball tracking, and confidence in coverage situations. Atwal's versatility gives La Salle flexibility on both sides of the ball, and his growth as a physical defender should elevate his profile moving forward. With another offseason of development, he projects as one of the top returning athletes in the class of 2028.     Ketel's recognition on both offense and defense speaks to his overall athleticism and value to David Douglas. He showcased the ability to impact games in multiple phases, contributing as a versatile offensive weapon while also playing a key role in the secondary. Ketel's instincts and willingness to play physical football stand out for a young player. As he continues to refine his positional identity, his versatility should remain a major asset.     Curtis made an immediate impact as a freshman specialist, earning all-conference recognition for his performance in both kicking and punting duties. Consistency and confidence are rare traits for young specialists, but Curtis demonstrated both throughout the season. Field position is often an overlooked factor, and his ability to control games through special teams added real value to Centennial. He is also a strong athlete and will make an impact beyond special teams in the coming seasons.    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Second Team</h2>    Locke showed significant promise as a young quarterback, earning second-team recognition after leading Milwaukie's offense with confidence and playmaking ability. His development as a passer and decision-maker helped stabilize the offense and allowed teammates around him to succeed. Locke plays with poise beyond his years and continues to improve in reading defenses. Entering next season, he looks poised to take another major step as a leader under center.     Perez provided steady play in the secondary and earned second-team honors through consistent coverage and reliable tackling. He demonstrated strong awareness in coverage situations and the ability to stay disciplined against opposing passing attacks. Perez's growth throughout the season reflects a player gaining confidence with each rep. As his physical development continues, he has the potential to become a true lockdown defender.     Menyfield earned recognition along the defensive line thanks to his disruptive presence and physicality at the point of attack. His ability to create pressure and compete in the trenches stood out, especially for an underclassman facing older competition. Menyfield shows strong upside as he continues to develop strength and technique. With added experience, he could become a cornerstone of Gresham's defensive front.    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Honorable Mention</h2>    Shellito earned honorable mention recognition after showing flashes of strong quarterback play and leadership potential. He demonstrated the ability to move the offense and create opportunities both through the air and with his decision-making. Shellito has elite arm talent and is the best prospect to come out of Centennial in quite some time. Further development could position him as a top quarterback in Oregon.     Diaz contributed along the defensive line with effort and physical play, helping establish a strong defensive front presence. He showed the ability to hold the point of attack and disrupt opposing run games. Diaz's motor stands out, particularly for a young defensive lineman. As he gains experience, his impact could grow significantly.     [player_tooltip player_id='1662671' first='JD' last='Harper'] provided balance to Milwaukie's offense with his running ability. His effort level and willingness to compete every down helped establish consistency in the run game. Harper shows promising vision and the ability to break big runs. With increased experience, he could become a featured offensive contributor.     McGrew earned honorable mention recognition through his consistent tackling and presence at linebacker. He demonstrated strong pursuit and an ability to read plays effectively. McGrew's physical style and effort level make him a reliable defender in the middle of the field. With continued development, he has the potential to become a defensive leader.     Preston added depth and explosiveness to the Milwaukie receiving corps. His athleticism allows him to create separation and contribute as a big-play threat. Preston's progression throughout the season suggests a player growing more comfortable at the varsity level. With added strength and refinement, he has the tools to become a consistent playmaker.     Wheat emerged as a reliable receiving option, earning recognition for his route-running and ability to make plays in space. His development as a pass catcher gave Milwaukie additional offensive versatility. Wheat demonstrates good body control and awareness along the sidelines. As he continues to refine his technique, his production could increase significantly.     Taylor earned recognition along the offensive line thanks to his physicality and work ethic in the trenches. Playing center requires intelligence and leadership, and Taylor showed both as an underclassman. His willingness to compete against older defensive linemen speaks to his toughness. Continued development could make him a long-term anchor up front.

Special District 1 offers one of the most unique landscapes in Oregon high school football, blending traditional 5A programs with select 6A schools from the Northwest Oregon Conference into a highly competitive, unpredictable schedule. The 2025 season saw Hood River Valley rise to the top of the standings behind a balanced and physical roster, while Milwaukie and Gresham remained strong contenders throughout league play. Depth across the conference created tight matchups each week, with several teams capable of pulling off upsets on any given Friday night. Despite multiple teams earning postseason berths, Special District 1 faced a difficult playoff path, with Gresham, Milwaukie, and Hood River Valley all exiting in the first round against tough competition. Still, the future of the district looks bright as several freshmen and sophomores earned all-conference honors and proved they belong at the varsity level. This edition of Next in Line highlights the underclassmen already making their mark and positioning themselves as future leaders within the conference.