NCAA Zone D Championships: South Dakota Divers Ready to Make Waves
By Shayla Tuschen, Communications Graduate Assistant
VERMILLION, S.D. — Excitement is bubbling over in South Dakota as local diving stars Charlie Matthews and Maddox Mork prepare to compete in the NCAA Zone D Championships in College Station, Texas. This thrilling event, streamed live on ESPN+, showcases some of the nation’s brightest collegiate diving talent. The Coyotes duo, hailed from the University of South Dakota, is primed and ready to bring the spirit of the Mount Rushmore State to this prestigious national stage.
Charlie Matthews and Maddox Mork exemplify the dedication and competitive spirit that residents of South Dakota hold in high regard. Their journey through the ranks of college athletics epitomizes the hard work and determination familiar to anyone who calls this state home.
South Dakota Athletics
Maddox Mork, a standout in the 3 Meter diving category, impressed during a dual meet against St. Thomas in St. Paul, where he secured his spot in the Championships with a phenomenal score of 332.75. Hailing from a state where the rugged beauty of the Badlands meets the rolling plains of the Midwest, his performance was as resilient and awe-inspiring as the iconic landscapes of South Dakota. Mork is set to perform on Monday, March 9 at 12:00 p.m.
Charlie Matthews, his compatriot in diving excellence, earned his position with a score of 306.68 during a closely contested dual against UNO in Omaha. Diamonds are a part of the Black Hills; Matthews’ skill reflects the precision and brilliance expected of such a precious stone. His event, the 1 Meter competition, is scheduled for Tuesday, March 10 at 12:00 p.m.
South Dakota’s support for sports reaches far into its communities, calling all #GoYotes to follow every flip and twist as these athletes gallantly represent their home state. For fans back home wanting to keep up with all things Coyotes, updates are available on social media through Facebook, Twitter (X), and Instagram, using the handle @SDCoyotes.
The journey of Matthews and Mork is intertwined with South Dakota’s legacy of producing formidable athletes excelling in various disciplines, much like the diverse and hardworking people of this state who contribute to its unique culture. On February 25, 2026, for instance, 28 Yotes earned all-summit league team honors, underscoring a tradition of athletic excellence.
As these talented divers prepare to compete, the whole of South Dakota holds its breath with anticipation, confident that the perseverance and grit of these individuals will see them to victory. Their performances are a reflection of the undying spirit of South Dakota, a place where the pursuit of excellence is a way of life.
Stay connected with South Dakota’s sporting stories and inspiration by following the Coyotes on social media or catching up with event highlights through ESPN+. For more updates, readers can directly reach out to USD’s athletics program at Shayla.Tuschen@coyotes.usd.edu.