USD-SDSU rivalry goes beyond athletics

As students, our vision can sometimes get clouded, because the only glimpse we see of our college is the four years we attend, traditionally.

Throughout this issue you can see various aspects of the University of South Dakota-South Dakota State University rivalry. It covers much more than athletics, perhaps most importantly the social atmosphere surrounding the hype.

Whether it’s a sports game or a building addition on campus, it’s important to keep in mind that we may not always understand the decisions being made that will have a greater impact further down the road — like a transition to Division I.

While Coyote athletics is still making its mark, it’s no secret that athletics has had its ups and downs.

But there is a certain aura that comes along with having a D-I football team.

Students travel either north or south to enjoy the game, and together we should embrace our mutual South Dakota citizenship, because we can help each other boost school spirit.

Events that pit the universities against each other branch from Dakota Days to Hobo Days and beyond, whether it be football, volleyball, band or other competitions.

USD has found itself playing catch-up with SDSU, particularly in football. But we’re on our way there. It may take a few more years, but if we take some time to look past our four-year window, we may find a more hopeful horizon ahead.

Having a rival can help increase the morale, but it is also important to recognize the status of our university to continue a steady growth of spirit.

(Photo: Then-junior Terrance Terry runs the ball into the end zone against the South Dakota State University defense Nov. 16, 2013 in the DakotaDome. The Coyotes will take on the Jackrabbits Nov. 22 in Brookings. File Photo / The Volante)