South Dakota Volleyball Adds Libero Katherine Thompson to 2025 Roster

By: Ethan Erdman, Assistant Director of Communications

In a thrilling development for South Dakota sports fans, the University of South Dakota Coyotes have announced the addition of a new talent to their 2025 volleyball roster. Katherine Thompson, a standout libero and defensive specialist from Pewaukee, Wisconsin, will be transferring from Marist College to join the Coyotes’ highly competitive squad.

Under the adept leadership of head coach Leanne Williamson, who has been guiding the Coyotes since April 9, 2014, the team has made significant strides in NCAA Division I volleyball. Williamson has an impressive track record, having led the Coyotes to their first-ever NCAA Division I National Tournament berth in 2018, setting the bar high for subsequent seasons.

South Dakota Coyotes

The Coyotes have become a force to reckon with under Williamson’s tenure, evidenced by their record-setting 2019 season. That year, they posted 31 wins, achieved the highest winning percentage in Summit League history (.912), and secured a perfect 16-0 record to win the regular season title. Such achievements have cemented South Dakota’s place in the hall of fame of collegiate volleyball.

Adding Katherine Thompson to the Coyotes squad poses an exciting enhancement to the team’s winning formula. During her two years at Marist College, Thompson played an impressive 154 sets across 42 matches, accumulating an impressive 488 digs, 112 assists, and 49 aces. Her performance has been nothing short of outstanding, with consistent rankings in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC).

Katherine’s numbers speak for themselves. In the 2024 season, she ranked No. 6 in digs per set (3.30) and No. 7 in aces per set (.42) within the MAAC. Notably, Thompson demonstrated her remarkable skills by surpassing the 20-dig milestone twice in a single season, peaking at 26 digs against Merrimack.

Katherine Thompson

Coach Williamson welcomed Thompson with open arms, saying, “We are excited to add Katherine to our Coyote Family! We are looking forward to adding her two years as a collegiate libero experience to our deep core of liberos. Our program prides itself on being a gritty defensive team, and Katherine’s skill set, attitude, and competitiveness will be a perfect addition to our group!”

Thompson’s journey to South Dakota is a testament to her dedication both on and off the court. While at Marist, she was named to the Academic Honor Roll twice, proving her prowess extends beyond athletics. Her high school career at Arrowhead Union High School was equally as distinguished, where she served as captain of her team, garnering second team all-conference accolades and an all-state honorable mention.

South Dakota, notably known for its vibrant community and rich culture, which appreciates its athletic heroes, is excited about Thompson’s addition. Vermillion, home to the Coyotes’ primary sports venues like the DakotaDome and the Sanford Coyote Sports Center, will soon welcome its new sports star, sparking excitement and props among the local volleyball enthusiasts.

• Leanne Williamson: A pivotal coach who has led the Coyotes to numerous victories and historic breakthroughs in NCAA tournaments.
• Katherine Thompson: Known for her astounding performance in digs per set and aces per set, coming from Marist College with rich experience.
• The Coyote Family: Celebrated for its tenacity and team spirit, continuously striving for excellence.

In conclusion, the arrival of Katherine Thompson is a strategic move that promises to bolster South Dakota’s defense and elevate their competitive edge in the upcoming seasons. South Dakota volleyball fans are in for a treat as Thompson integrates into a team that continually pushes the boundaries of excellence.

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