South Dakota, a state known for its sprawling landscapes and vibrant communities, is set to witness a significant boost in its collegiate sports scene. The University of South Dakota (USD) is welcoming 15 new athletes into its swimming and diving program for the 2025-26 school year. This new cohort, consisting of eight women and seven men, is a testament to the state’s commitment to nurturing sports talent and providing ample opportunities for athletes.
Under the guidance of head swimming and diving coach Jason Mahowald, USD aims to bolster its standing on the national stage. Mahowald has been pivotal in shaping the program with a focus on excellence and inclusivity.
Emerson Smith
The incoming athletes are a diverse group, each bringing a unique set of skills. Among them is Emerson Smith, a native of Mitchell, South Dakota. Smith is not only a local legend but also an Olympian in freestyle skiing, having competed in the 2018 Winter Olympics. Her multifaceted background underscores the versatility and robust athletic tradition in South Dakota.
Another standout athlete is Brock Russell from Mitchell, a six-time state champion swimmer who has demonstrated unrivaled prowess in various events. With personal bests placing him among the top tier, Russell is set to major in business and finance at USD while continuing to elevate his swimming career.
Brock Russell
These athletes join the program at a time when USD is placing greater emphasis on competitive sports and holistic education. The University is not only focused on winning titles but also on fostering the personal growth of its students through supportive and challenging environments.
The addition of new talents like Dawsyn Green from Iowa, and Henley Hatzung from Minnesota, both of whom have impressive records, is poised to enhance USD’s potential for success in upcoming competitions. Green, a 15-time state qualifier, plans to major in biology, while Hatzung, part of a state championship team, will pursue nursing.
Faith Leitel, who helped Heritage High School in Colorado clinch a state title, will focus on psychology, reflecting the diverse academic pursuits of the USD team members. Alex Peterson from Minnesota, a five-time conference champion, brings expertise in freestyle and butterfly events, intending to study medical biology and hospital management.
South Dakota’s universe of swimming is not just defined by its athletes but also by the strategic vision of its programs. By fostering a nurturing yet competitive atmosphere, institutions like USD are playing instrumental roles in charting the future of sports in the state.
As these athletes embark on their journeys with USD, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of not only achieving personal bests but also representing South Dakota on broader stages. Their stories are intertwined with the state’s rich sporting tradition and its commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics.
With a new class of athletes ready to dive into their collegiate careers, South Dakota is poised to continue its legacy of producing high-caliber talent, further solidifying its place as a hub for nurturing competitive sports enthusiasts. It remains a state where ambition meets opportunity, offering a platform for promising athletes to shine.
Contact Jason Mahowald via [email protected] for more information about the swimming and diving program and the latest updates on their activities.