University of Sioux Falls Football: A Legacy of Excellence
The University of Sioux Falls (USF) Cougars football team boasts a rich history marked by national championships, impressive winning streaks, and a transition to NCAA Division II competition. Representing the university in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the Cougars have established themselves as a formidable force in college football.
Early History and the Rise to Prominence
The seeds of the University of Sioux Falls were planted with a resolution adopted by the Baptist Association in 1872, emphasizing the importance of Christian education for youth. This vision materialized in 1883 with the establishment of Dakota Collegiate Institute, offering secondary and collegiate programs within the Sioux Falls First Baptist Church. The institution underwent a name change to Sioux Falls University in 1885. While the early focus was on academics, the seeds of an athletic program were sown. In 1890, the student newspaper, The Stylus, reported the impending formation of a football team, eagerly awaiting the arrival of a ball to commence training.
From Sioux Braves to National Champions
In the fall of 1923, a contest was held that saw 'Sioux Braves' selected as the name for the athletic teams. That same year also marked the beginning of the Teepee Day tradition, which would last for 53 years. Professors Max Martini and Laurence Nelson wanted to preserve the history of the campus' land that was once inhabited by the Sioux and other Native American tribes. After a difficult period where the football team lost 28 consecutive games, Coach Phillip Tinsworth made a bold promise. He vowed to stand on his head at the corner of 10th and Phillips Avenue if his team secured a victory. Finally, on Teepee Day in 1953, the Braves triumphed over the Trojans of General Beadle College (now Dakota State) with a score of 13-0, fulfilling Coach Tinsworth's promise. In 1979, the Braves mascot was changed to Cougars.
The football program achieved significant milestones in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The USF Cougars won the NAIA Division II football national championship in 1996.
The Kalen DeBoer Era: A Dynasty is Born
The modern era of USF football is largely defined by the remarkable tenure of head coach Kalen DeBoer. Taking the helm in 2005, DeBoer orchestrated an unprecedented run of success, leading the Cougars to a 67-3 record in his five years. His leadership culminated in three NAIA football national championships in 2006, 2008 and 2009. All four of USF's national championships have been undefeated seasons. From 2008-2010 the team sported a 42-game winning streak which tied an NAIA record.
Read also: University of Georgia Sorority Guide
Transition to NCAA Division II
In 2012, USF transitioned to the NCAA Division II level, joining the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). Since then, the Cougars have maintained a 69-19 record in the NSIC. Overall, Sioux Falls has a 76-26 mark in 102 games at the Division II level. Additionally, the Cougars have made four playoff appearances in the past five years (2015, 2016, 2017 and 2019), missing only in the 7-4 season in 2018. The Cougars won their first-ever NSIC title in 2016 with head coach Jed Stugart leading the Cougars to an 11-0 league mark and 12-1 overall.
Coaching Changes and Continued Success
Stugart took over for alum Kalen DeBoer in 2010. Jon Anderson took over as coach in 2017, replacing Jed Stugart.
Notable Players and Recognition
The football program has produced four NAIA Players of the Year Award winners: running back Nick Kortan in 2002, quarterback Chad Cavender in 2007, quarterback Lorenzo Brown in 2009 and receiver Jon Ryan in 2010.
Facilities and Campus Growth
The University's growth is reflected in its facilities. In 2007, the USF Sports Complex was built, where Cougars play first home football game at Bob Young Field.
Read also: History of the Block 'M'
Read also: Legacy of Fordham University
tags: #university #of #sioux #falls #football #history
