VERMILLION, S.D. — In a significant development for South Dakota sports, Travis Johansen has been appointed as the 31st head coach of the University of South Dakota football program. This announcement was made by the University’s Director of Athletics, Jon Schemmel, on Thursday, January 16. Johansen steps into this new role with a rich legacy of success and plans to keep building on South Dakota’s growing reputation in collegiate football.
Celebrating his appointment, Johansen remarked, “First and foremost, congratulations to Coach Nielson on a remarkable career. One of the all-time winners, I couldn’t be more appreciative of the opportunity I had to work alongside him over the last six seasons. Coach’s impact on thousands of players and coaches has been transformative across college football. We will all chase the standard Coach Nielson set for Coyote Football.”
Travis Johansen, originally from Blaine, Minnesota, joined the University of South Dakota (USD) in February 2019 as the defensive coordinator. Over six seasons, he has left an indelible mark, leading the Coyote defense to new heights. Under his guidance, South Dakota has seen the rise of celebrated players, including two Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) Defensive Players of the Year—Brock Mogensen in 2023 and Mi’Quise Grace in 2024.
Johansen’s appointment comes as the program aims to uphold the standards and success established by previous head coach Bob Nielson, who recently announced his retirement after leading the team to its first NCAA FCS semifinal appearance. Reflecting on Johansen’s capabilities, Jon Schemmel said, “Travis has excelled at every step in his career, and I am confident Travis is ready to lead this program. Internal succession planning was at the top of my list when I arrived here, and it quickly became apparent Travis was that person and is ready to lead Coyote Football.”
The University of South Dakota, located in Vermillion, is a cornerstone for higher education in the state, and its football team, affectionately called the Coyotes, holds a special place in South Dakotan culture. The team plays a significant role in the vibrant college sports scene in South Dakota, drawing large crowds to their games and fostering a sense of community and pride among locals.
Johansen’s coaching prowess is evident in the impressive stats his squads have garnered. His defensive units have consistently performed at top levels, with South Dakota’s 2024 team securing an 11-3 record, achieving a share of their first MVFC title, and placing in the top-10 for scoring defense. His strategic acumen earned multiple players conference honors and contributed massively to historic seasons for the Coyotes.
Besides his tactical skills, Johansen has successfully groomed talent fit for the NFL. Over his tenure at USD, ten of his athletes have transitioned to professional football, including Myles Harden, a 2023 seventh round draft pick for the Cleveland Browns. This impressive track record speaks volumes about the mentorship and development players receive under Johansen’s guidance.
Before joining South Dakota, Johansen’s coaching career included a successful spell at Grand View University, where he compiled a 61-11 record as the Defensive Coordinator, clinching a national title in 2013. His early coaching foundation was laid at Concordia University, St. Paul, where he also played and earned accolades as a two-time All-NSIC performer.
The city of Vermillion and its residents eagerly anticipate Johansen’s formal introduction as head coach, set for a press conference on January 17, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. in the Dome Club. For many South Dakotans, the expansion and success of the university’s football program reflect broader aspirations for statewide recognition and excellence. As Travis Johansen steps into this new role, all eyes are on the Coyotes to continue their upward trajectory.
For more updates on the Coyotes and their journey, follow South Dakota Athletics on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. To support the team, be part of the action and secure your season tickets early with renewed excitement and hope for seeing a national championship make its way to South Dakota.