On a frosty January 18, 2025, the town of Brookings, South Dakota, became a hub of aquatic excitement as the South Dakota Coyotes and South Dakota State Jackrabbits clashed in a thrilling swimming and diving showdown at the Stanley J. Marshall Center. This annual dual meet is a testament to the state’s tradition of competitive spirit and sportsmanship, attracting local fans and athletes who share a passion for water sports.
South Dakota, known for its expansive landscapes and rich history, also boasts a vibrant sports community. The dual meet between these two universities is not just an event; it is a celebration of athletic talent from the region. The state’s passion for swimming and diving was on full display as both teams delivered stellar performances.
The South Dakota women’s team emerged victorious with a commanding win, securing a 174-126 score against their rivals. Leading the charge was sophomore star Gabbie Ahrendt, whose prowess in the water saw her clinch three individual titles in the 100 backstroke (59.16 seconds), 100 butterfly (58.66 seconds), and 200 individual medley (2:09.49).
The men’s team showcased formidable talent as well, with standout performances from Charlie Matthews, Alex Parkinson, and Joaquin Contreras-Fallico, each claiming two victories. Despite their efforts, the Jackrabbits edged out the Coyotes with a narrow 155-145 victory, highlighted by their record-setting performance in the 400-yard freestyle relay.
- South Dakota Women’s Swimming Team
- Ahrendt’s Personal Triumphs
- South Dakota Men’s Team Highlights
- Jackrabbits’ Record-Breaking Performance
The dual featured an exciting array of events. Emily DiProspero, a freshman, made waves by winning the 1000 free in 10:29.97, demonstrating the depth of talent within the Coyotes’ roster. Meanwhile, the women’s team secured wins in 10 of the 16 events, a testament to their collective strength and preparation.
On the flip side, South Dakota State’s Gigi Hioki dominated the freestyle events, capturing victories in the 200 (1:52.75), 100 (52.40), and 500 (5:15.24) freestyle races. Her exceptional performance was instrumental in keeping the Jackrabbits competitive.
The culmination of the men’s events saw the Jackrabbits’ squad, consisting of Denilson Cyprianos, Aiden Carstensen, Sam Johnson, and Zavier Kranz, set a new pool record in the 400-yard freestyle relay with a blistering time of 3:05.90. This stunning feat underlined their prowess and teamwork.
South Dakota stands ready to host Omaha and St. Thomas in upcoming dual meets at the DakotaDome, promising more thrilling athletic performances. The Jackrabbits, meanwhile, anticipate an intense competition at the Coyote Invite in Sioux Falls.
This meet not only highlighted the rivalry between two of South Dakota’s premier universities but also showcased the state’s dedication to swimming and diving. The athletes’ tenacity and enthusiasm were mirrored by the support of their local communities, emphasizing the importance of sports as a unifying force within the state.
As South Dakota continues to embrace its love for sports, events like these promise to sustain the vibrant spirit of competition and camaraderie that defines the region. For the athletes of South Dakota and South Dakota State, this dual meet served as a prime opportunity to set personal bests and break records, all while celebrating their shared love for the sport.