VERMILLION — In 2021, Carlo Pica was an eighth grader on Dell Rapids St. Mary’s Class 9B state championship football team. Pica watched as his older brother, John Pica, and the Cardinals won their first state championship in school history.

Fast forward to 2025, Pica went out as a state champ just like his brother and also shared this title with younger brother, Gavin. 

“It’s crazy being back here after so long,” said Carlo after St. Mary’s dominating 54-6 win over Avon at the DakotaDome. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. It’s the best possible way you can end your season. I am just so thankful to be surrounded with such good coaches and teammates.”

One of those teammates is Gavin, a 6-foot-4, 250-pound junior lineman. Gavin and Carlo, a 6-foot, 235-pound senior lineman, were instrumental in DRSM’s 12-0 season and its second state championship in five years. 

“It’s the best feeling in the world,” Gavin said. “I would have it no other way being able to play every snap with my brother out there. I remember the last time (in 2021) I watched my two oldest brothers play being a waterboy. Now I get to play with one of them. It’s amazing.” 

John Pica, a current South Dakota State University tight end, was named the 2021 Class 9B state championship most outstanding lineman. His younger brothers said what John accomplished in high school motivated them to reach the same status. 

“Seeing what he was able to accomplish in his high school career made me want to do the exact same, but more,” Gavin said. “Being able to accomplish a state championship just like he did, it’s amazing.”

Carlo said Jon and the former Cardinals “set a higher standard,” for the current Cardinals. On Thursday, St. Mary’s controlled the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, with the Pica brothers contributing to the dominating win.  

“It always starts with us,” Carlo said. “If you don’t get blocks, you are not going anywhere. I feel like we played a good game.”

The brothers, along with the 2025 Class 9B most outstanding lineman Alex Lindeman, paved the way for DRSM totaling 360 yards and 246 yards on the ground. 

“It all starts up front,” Gavin said. “If we don’t get our blocks they are not going to be able to run through holes. We did a pretty good job of that tonight, and they were able to get some touchdowns for us.”

Carlo hopes to play college football next season, but is currently undecided. But he’s already predicting Gavin and the Cardinals will be back in the DakotaDome in 2026. 

“It’s pretty awesome,” Carlo added about winning the state title with his brother. “But he’s going to be back here next year.”