VERMILLION, S.D. — The University of South Dakota (USD) Coyote Swim and Dive team is gearing up to launch the 2025-26 season with great excitement and anticipation. The first meet is set to take place on Friday, October 3, at 5 p.m. in Vermillion, a bustling small town that’s energizing with the spirit of competition. This event marks a milestone for USD and the community of Vermillion as it will be held in the brand-new USD Natatorium, a state-of-the-art facility that promises to become a hub for aquatic sports in South Dakota.
Highlighting the importance of this season opener, the men’s team will be clashing against Augustana in a Dual meet, while the women’s team will host Minnesota State. With five home meets scheduled for the season, USD is poised to become a center for swimming and diving enthusiasts in the region. Upcoming matches include prestigious competitions against Iowa State, the celebrated Coyote Extravaganza, and fierce rivals South Dakota State.
The community will enjoy a mesmerizing fireworks display at 9:15 p.m., launched from the south Polaris parking lot, as a way to celebrate this inaugural meet at the natatorium. This evening promises not only athletic excellence but also community bonding and celebration.
University of South Dakota
Looking back at last season, the Coyote Swim and Dive teams demonstrated remarkable prowess. The women’s team finished impressively with 712 points, achieving their fourth straight runner-up finish, marking their sixth in the past seven seasons. The men’s team also showcased their talents, earning 697.5 points to secure their fifth runner-up finish in the last eight years. These accomplishments speak volumes about the dedication and hard work of the athletes and their coaching staff, setting the stage for another promising season.
- Swimming Events: 200 Medley Relay, 1000 Freestyle, 200 Freestyle, 100 Backstroke, 100 Breaststroke, 200 Butterfly, 50 Freestyle, 100 Freestyle, 200 Backstroke, 200 Breaststroke, 500 Freestyle, 100 Butterfly, 200 IM, 400 Freestyle Relay.
- Diving Events: Women’s 3 Meter Diving/Men’s 1 Meter Diving, Women’s 1 Meter Diving/Men’s 3 Meter Diving.
Following the home opener, the Coyotes will take their competitive spirits to Minneapolis, MN, for a Tri-Dual against Minnesota and Nebraska on October 10. This is an exciting period for team members as they will get to showcase their talents on a larger stage, against formidable opponents.
South Dakota, with its strong sense of community and affinity for sports, is proud to support the Coyotes in their endeavors. From the athletes’ dedication to the fans’ unwavering support, this is a reflection of what makes South Dakota special: a place where people come together to celebrate achievements and foster a spirit of excellence.
South Dakota Athletics
To stay connected with all things Coyotes, follow the South Dakota Athletics on social media: Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. Use hashtags #GoYotes and #WeAreSouthDakota to join the conversation and show your support for South Dakota’s premier university swimming and diving team.
The USD Natatorium and the accompanying agenda of events not only boost the profile of USD but also enhance South Dakota’s image as a nurturing ground for athletic talent. It is a testament to the community’s spirit and the value placed on sports and education alike.
Join the action on Friday, October 3, to support our talented swimmers and divers as they dive into a promising season. Witness the sporting excellence at USD and be a part of something extraordinary right here in Vermillion, South Dakota.