The South Dakota State Jackrabbits have built a strong reputation in NCAA sports, excelling in Jackrabbits football and Jackrabbits basketball. Their history reflects dedication, teamwork, and athletic excellence. Over the years, the Jackrabbits have earned conference titles, national recognition, and loyal fans who celebrate their success across multiple college sports programs.
College Sports Established
1881
Location
Brookings, South Dakota
College Name
South Dakota State University
Collegiate History
2005 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
2007 - Present / Summit League
2005 - 2007 / Independent
Nickname
Jackrabbits - The South Dakota State Jackrabbits are one of the most beloved teams in college sports. But have you ever wondered where their nickname came from? It turns out that it has an exciting history!
South Dakota State Jackrabbits Origin
It all began in 1904 when a group of South Dakota State University students decided to form a football team. At the time, the school had no official mascot, so they chose to adopt “Jackrabbit” as their unofficial mascot and team name. They chose this particular animal because jackrabbits were known for being tough and determined animals – qualities that these young men wanted to embody on the field!
Since then, “Jackrabbit” has become synonymous with South Dakota State athletics – both on campus and around the country. The Jacks have since won numerous championships over its long history, proving how resilient and determined these athletes are!
So next time you cheer your favorite team onto victory or wear your favorite Jacks apparel, remember that behind every tremendous athletic program lies a story about determination - like that found within our beloved South Dakota State Jackrabbits' nickname origins!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 2008
- 2019
- 2022
- 2023
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Summit League Success
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits baseball has been a member of the NCAA Division I Summit League since the start of the 2008 season. The program has appeared in 1 NCAA tournament at the Division I level, while making 8 at the Division II level. It has won 1 conference tournament championships and 1 regular season conference titles. As of ... -
Women’s Basketball Glory
The Jackrabbits played in the NCAA Women’s Division I Basketball Championship in each of their first five years of eligibility, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013. The also played in the NCAA D-I Basketball Championship in 2015, 2016, 2018 and 2019, making the Sweet Sixteen in 2019. The Jackrabbits played in the 2007, 2008, 2014, and 2017 Women’s WNIT Tournaments. ... -
Historic Win Streak
Prior to moving to Division I in 2004, the Jackrabbits were a power while in Division II. The team won 20 conference championships with the North Central Conference, advanced to the NCAA Division II Tournament 24 times, and won the 1963 NCAA College Division basketball tournament. Although initially struggling after the move to Division I, the team increased their win ... -
Two-Time National Champions
The Jackrabbits currently have a 12-year streak of qualifying for the FCS playoffs, the second-longest in the country at the FCS level. South Dakota State are two-times national champions. They achieved their first national championship win in school history on January 8, 2023, defeating North Dakota State 45-21. Then a year later on January 7, 2024, they repeated by defeating ...
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South Dakota State Jackrabbits History
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits have built a strong legacy in NCAA athletics, highlighted by their intense rivalry with the South Dakota Coyotes. Known for their competitive spirit and consistency, the Jackrabbits have become one of the most respected college programs since joining NCAA Division I in 2004, excelling in both Jackrabbits football and Jackrabbits basketball.
In Jackrabbits basketball, South Dakota State has achieved remarkable success with multiple appearances in the NCAA Tournament. The men’s team made six straight March Madness appearances beginning in the 2012–13 season, earning two Summit League Tournament titles and four regular-season championships. Legendary players like Nate Wolters, drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2013, and Mike Daum, one of the NCAA’s top all-time scorers, have made their mark on the program’s history.
Meanwhile, Jackrabbits football has been equally dominant. Under long-time head coach John Stiegelmeier, the team became a powerhouse in the Missouri Valley Football Conference. The Jackrabbits earned multiple FCS playoff appearances, including semifinal runs in 2012, 2016, and 2017, and clinched several conference championships. Their success culminated with a national FCS title in 2022, cementing their place as one of the top football programs in the nation.
Jackrabbits Achievements
The South Dakota State Jackrabbits’ achievements go beyond football and basketball. The university’s baseball team has appeared in several NCAA Regionals, capturing conference championships and producing MLB-level talent. Other programs, including volleyball, wrestling, and track and field, have also achieved notable success, contributing to the school’s athletic excellence.
Today, the South Dakota State Jackrabbits continue to thrive as one of the most consistent athletic programs in the country. Their success in Jackrabbits football, Jackrabbits basketball, and other sports reflects a tradition of excellence that defines the school’s competitive identity. The Jackrabbits’ dedication, discipline, and championship mindset ensure that their legacy will continue for generations of fans and athletes to come.
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