VERMILLION, S.D. — The University of South Dakota’s (USD) track and field team has made a remarkable start to this season, achieving significant recognition in the Kwik Star Summit League Indoor Track & Field Peak Performer of the Week honors. This success not only highlights the team’s prowess but also underscores South Dakota’s energetic sports culture and dedication to athletic excellence.
The Coyotes snatched three out of the four awards available, a feat that speaks volumes about the strength and talent present in USD’s athletics program. Erin Kinney, Cassidy Mooneyhan, and Landon Olson each showcased outstanding performances, marking a stellar week for the Coyotes.
Erin Kinney storming to victory[/caption]
Erin Kinney, originally from Sioux Falls, earned the Kwik Star Summit League Women’s Indoor Track Peak Performer of the Week by clinching victories in both the 60-meter and 200-meter dashes at the USD Alumni Meet. Kinney not only excelled in these events but also set the fastest time in the Summit League this season, clocking in at 7.27 seconds in the 60-meter preliminaries, a testament to her relentless spirit and distinctive speed. Her achievements resonate with South Dakota’s sports community, where dedication and excellence are deeply rooted.
Cassidy Mooneyhan contributed to the women’s awards sweep by seizing the Women’s Indoor Field Peak Performer of the Week accolade. Her remarkable performance in the pole vault, reaching a height of 14-6 ¾, is not only a personal milestone but also a highlight for USD’s track and field history. Mooneyhan’s ascendancy to the third-highest mark in USD’s indoor history and fourth highest in Division I is a reflection of South Dakota’s nurturing environment for sports talent. This accomplishment places her in an elite category within the Summit League.
Echoing similar success on the men’s side was Landon Olson, whose exceptional skills in the high jump secured him the Men’s Indoor Field Peak Performer of the Week. Olson’s leap of 7-2 ½, not only ties him for second in program history but also places South Dakota’s athletic prowess on a national platform within Division I rankings.
Cassidy Mooneyhan clearing the bar[/caption]
The athletic achievements of Kinney, Mooneyhan, and Olson are setting a vibrant precedent for the Coyotes, as South Dakota continues to solidify its status as a key player in collegiate athletics. Their successes reflect the hard work and dedication instilled in each athlete at USD, highlighting the state’s commitment to cultivating sports excellence.
- Erin Kinney is a four-time indoor Summit League champion, making her one of the most decorated athletes in the league’s history.
- Cassidy Mooneyhan was an honorable mention all-American outdoor and an all-American indoor athlete during the 2022-23 season, showcasing her consistent performance at elite competitive levels.
- Landon Olson’s jump of 7-2 ½ ties for third in Division I this season, indicating a strong national presence.
- The Coyotes will carry their momentum to the Mark Colligan Memorial in Lincoln, Nebraska, further putting South Dakota athletics in the limelight.
These accomplishments not only enhance the University of South Dakota’s reputation but also illustrate the potential held within the state for nurturing top-tier athletic talent. The recognition from the Summit League further inspires South Dakota’s youth, setting a benchmark for future generations aiming to excel in sports.
The upcoming Mark Colligan Memorial meet offers yet another platform for these star athletes to display their prowess, contributing further to South Dakota’s sporting heritage. With the whole state rooting for them, the Coyotes are poised to make a significant impact both in their league and nationally.
The achievements of these athletes underscore the vibrant sports culture in South Dakota, inspiring many young aspiring athletes across the state to pursue their athletic dreams. Their journey represents the essence of South Dakota: perseverance, resilience, and excellence. These values continue to propel the region forward, ensuring it remains a formidable force in the realm of collegiate athletics.