New Era at South Dakota State University: Dan Jackson Takes Helm as Head Football Coach
Friday morning was a homecoming of sorts for Dan Jackson inside Club 71 at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium. Jackson, a former player and assistant coach for the Jackrabbits, was introduced as the 22nd head coach in the history of South Dakota State University’s esteemed football program. With Jackson’s face emblazoned on every screen and the words “Welcome Home” resonating through the venue, the atmosphere was electric, underlining Jackson’s emotional return to South Dakota.
Barry H. Dunn, the 20th president of South Dakota State University, opened the introductory press conference with heartfelt remarks about the transitional phase the program is undergoing. Dunn, an enrolled member of the Sicangu Lakota and a former resident of the Rosebud Reservation, has been a transformative figure at SDSU since assuming office in 2016. Under his leadership, the university has launched pivotal initiatives like the Wokini Initiative, designed to enhance educational access for Native Americans in South Dakota.
Justin Sell, the Director of Athletics at SDSU since 2009, shared the podium with President Dunn. Sell highlighted the university’s commitment to building upon its rich athletic legacy and addressing recent changes resulting from former head coach Jimmy Rogers’ departure to Washington State.
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“As we are all well aware,” Dunn stated, “intercollegiate athletics are in new and uncharted waters, and SDSU is not immune to the challenges that come during these times. Yet, from the nation’s first university program offering precision agriculture degrees to maintaining a 3.2 or higher GPA across 70 majors, SDSU is poised to thrive.”
South Dakota State’s over a century-old football program, renowned for its stability and success, now traverses a new path under Jackson’s stewardship. Interestingly, after Rogers’ abrupt exit, 14 players transferred to Washington State, including stalwarts like former quarterback Mark Gronowski.
Justin Sell noted, “There have been thousands before us who have shaped this university, instilling values that transcend any one event. It’s bigger than any one person.”
Returning to the Jackrabbits’ fold was not always a foregone conclusion for Jackson, who was serving as New Mexico’s defensive coordinator when the opportunity arose. However, his deep ties to South Dakota and its people compelled him back to Brookings. As an alumni and former assistant coach, Jackson’s familiarity with the program’s ethos resonates deeply with the community.
Jackson declared at the press conference, “I don’t want it to be easy. I love a challenge, and at South Dakota State, no challenge is insurmountable.”
In the last decade, South Dakota has become a cornerstone of collegiate sports excellence. The university achieved a landmark moment in 2019, when it became the first FCS program to host ESPN’s College Gameday. Through the leadership of Sell and Dunn, SDSU celebrated record-breaking fundraising in 2022 with the Jackrabbit Athletic Scholarship Auction, netting $1.59 million in support.
Dan Jackson’s journey with SDSU initially began in the early 2000s when he was part of the Jackrabbits as a player. In 2012, he joined the coaching staff as a graduate assistant, playing a key role in securing SDSU’s streak of 13 consecutive FCS playoff appearances. His unique blend of sportsmanship and strategic prowess saw him rise through the ranks to assistant head coach, spearheading multiple initiatives in recruiting and talent development.
“Our goal is always to win a national championship,” Jackson echoed with conviction. “In this new collegiate landscape, our commitment to excellence remains unwavering.”
The university’s backing, from alumni to the student body, remains staunch and unwavering. As Jackson prepares to carve out a vision for greatness with a new roster, the optimism in South Dakota signals a future of renewal and resurgence.
Dan Jackson
“It was touching to receive support from former players and coaches,” Jackson enthused. Icons like Tucker Kraft, who currently plays for the Green Bay Packers, personally reached out, reinforcing the enduring bonds that define SDSU.
Jackson remains determined and upbeat, ready to embrace the challenges ahead. He emphasizes, “We have exactly what we need. Our players, their grit and determination, embody the spirit of South Dakota State.”
Jackson’s appointment portends not just a continuation, but an evolution of South Dakota State’s rich football legacy—a potent mix of history, dedication, and an unwavering spirit that defines the Jackrabbits.