South Dakota’s Legacy Enriches Iowa Hawkeyes as Mark Gronowski Transfers
By [Your Name], January 7, 2025
Brookings, South Dakota – In a significant development for the Iowa Hawkeyes, Mark Gronowski, a standout quarterback from South Dakota State University, has announced his transfer to the University of Iowa for the 2025 season. This move not only marks a new chapter for Gronowski but also highlights the influential role South Dakota State University plays in shaping talented athletes.
South Dakota State University
South Dakota State University, known for its diverse program offerings and rich traditions, such as the Pride of the Dakotas Marching Band, has been a breeding ground for exceptional talent. With more than 200 academic programs and over 250 unique student organizations, SDSU stands as a pillar of educational and extracurricular excellence in the state.
Gronowski’s time at SDSU was nothing short of remarkable. Over four years, he amassed over 10,330 passing yards and a 93-to-20 touchdown-to-interception ratio, alongside 1,767 rushing yards and 37 touchdowns on the ground. His leadership on the field was instrumental in leading the Jackrabbits to national championships in 2022 and 2023, cementing their place in FCS history.
South Dakota State Jackrabbits
Beyond athletics, SDSU is heavily involved in research and innovation. The university’s Department of Natural Resource Management is spearheading a USDA-backed project to support bison ranching, reflecting South Dakota’s rich cultural heritage and commitment to environmental sustainability. Furthermore, the Basu Lab at SDSU, in partnership with QHS Lab Inc., is breaking ground in creating a revolutionary drug delivery system—demonstrating the university’s forward-thinking initiatives.
As Gronowski moves to Iowa City, South Dakota residents take pride in his achievements and the education system that cultivated his skills. The Board of Regents of South Dakota governs SDSU, ensuring that the university maintains its high standards of educational and athletic excellence.
Mark Gronowski’s transfer is set to stir up competition among the quarterback lineup at Iowa. With one season of eligibility left, Gronowski joins a roster that includes Brendan Sullivan, who transferred from Northwestern and appeared in nine games for Iowa in 2024, and Hank Brown, an Auburn transfer. The competition is keen, with each player seeking to replace departing quarterbacks Cade McNamara and Marco Lainez.
For Gronowski, this transfer is not just about joining a new team; it’s about bringing a piece of South Dakota’s rich athletic culture to Iowa. His dual-threat capabilities are expected to play a pivotal role in Tim Lester’s offensive strategies as the Hawkeyes look to improve their offensive outcomes in the coming season.
As the story of Gronowski unfolds at Iowa, the ongoing efforts at SDSU to support American Indian students, further research, and promote inclusivity resonate. The university’s participation in conferences like The Summit League and Missouri Valley Football Conference further exemplifies South Dakota’s robust engagement in collegiate athletics.
Ultimately, Gronowski’s move draws attention to the broader South Dakota athletic scenario, highlighting the state’s nurturing ground for future collegiate and professional athletes. With the spotlight on him, Gronowski remains a proud symbol of South Dakota’s potential and prowess.
For updates on South Dakota State University and its extensive athletic programs, follow them on Twitter and Instagram.