In a significant enhancement to its already formidable football program, the University of South Dakota, renowned for its strength in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), warmly welcomes three highly-talented Kansan athletes to its roster. The influx of fresh talent signifies not just a strategic recruitment drive but also highlights a strong connection between South Dakota and Kansas in collegiate sports.
Bryce Cohoon, an illustrious athlete from Maize High School, has set his sights on furthering his promising football career with the Coyotes. Previously demonstrating his prowess at both Kansas and Syracuse, Cohoon stands out as one of the quickest athletes in Kansas high school history. His inclusion in the University of South Dakota’s roster is strategically aligned with fostering a championship-contending team.
Bryce Cohoon
The University of South Dakota, located in the vibrant town of Vermillion, has always placed a strong emphasis on nurturing athletic talent, reflecting South Dakota’s commitment to excellence in sports. Vermillion, nestled within scenic South Dakota, offers the perfect backdrop for student-athletes to thrive both on and off the field.
Joining Cohoon from Kansas are Dustin Cochran from Wichita Northwest and Jesiah Gooch from Hillsboro. Both of these remarkable players graduated in December and have already settled on campus, poised to make significant contributions to their new team. Their early arrival ensures a smooth transition and underscores South Dakota’s proactive engagement with young talent.

Dustin Cochran
These arrivals are part of a broader recruitment strategy that sees the University of South Dakota leveraging the immense football talent present in Kansas. By consistently scouting and incorporating such talent, South Dakota not only expands its own capabilities but also brings together a diverse athletic culture, enriching the local community.
South Dakota’s dedication to sports extends beyond football, reaching into various athletic endeavors. This robust athletic environment has become a defining characteristic of the state’s identity, creating opportunities for athletes in disciplines like cross country and baseball.
Among the new inductees, Kasen Parsons from Osage City High School stands as another promising future football star. Despite currently recovering from an injury, Parsons has committed to Emporia State University, showcasing the resilience and determination often seen in South Dakota athletes.
Carter Hajek, another name in Kansas football history, echoes this determination. His commitment to Emporia State University was preceded by a remarkable high school career, underlined by a state record of 132 total touchdowns. Such achievements resonate with South Dakota’s sporting ethos which values skill, hard work, and athletic integrity.
As the University of South Dakota continues to build on its storied football legacy, these new additions highlight a profound connection with Kansan talent and echo the state’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in collegiate sports.
The Coyotes’ enriched roster, propelled by these strategic recruitments, aligns with South Dakota’s broader objective to emerge as a dominant force in the national FCS landscape. This expansion represents more than athletic prowess; it’s a testament to South Dakota’s welcoming community that appreciates diverse talent and forward-thinking strategies.