The Midmajor's Triumph - From Obscurity to At-Large Glory

Relationship with Johnston and the State Program

In this context, the relationship with Johnston and the State program played a crucial role. As one coach expressed, "I have a lot of respect for them. They always had a good team." This respect was not merely a formality but was reflected in the on-court success that followed. The midmajor program was able to build a strong foundation through its interactions with the State program, laying the groundwork for future achievements.

Over the years, the partnership between the midmajor and the State program led to numerous victories. South Dakota, for instance, won three regular-season titles and three Summit League tournaments in just six seasons. These achievements were a testament to the collaborative efforts and mutual growth between the two entities. The coaches involved worked together to raise the level of competition and set new standards for the league.

Coach of the Year Honors

The midmajor's success was also recognized through the awarding of Coach of the Year honors. One coach, in particular, stood out during the 2017-18 to 2019-20 seasons, winning the league's Coach of the Year title for three consecutive years. This achievement was a significant milestone for the program, as it demonstrated the coach's ability to lead the team to great heights. The Coyotes were a dominant force during this period, finishing with an impressive 30-2 record and a perfect 15-0 record in the conference in 2019-20. However, their season was abruptly halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Looking back, it is clear that this coach's leadership and strategic decisions were instrumental in the midmajor's success. The team's performance during this time set a high bar for future coaches to follow, inspiring them to strive for excellence. The coach's impact extended beyond the wins and losses, as they also left a lasting legacy within the program.

Preceding Coaches and Their Impact

Before the current coach's tenure, Amy Williams played a significant role in the midmajor's development. As Mark Wendt, a superfan from near Vermillion, S.D., mentioned, "Amy won the WNIT, and then she was hired at Nebraska. But Dawn was the one who slayed the dragon, who started to win games against State." Williams laid the groundwork for future success, and Dawn took it to the next level by defeating the State program and establishing the midmajor as a force to be reckoned with.

The impact of these preceding coaches cannot be underestimated. Each coach brought their own unique style and approach, contributing to the growth and evolution of the midmajor program. Their combined efforts created a winning culture within the team and instilled a sense of pride among the players and fans. The midmajor's journey is a testament to the power of collective leadership and the importance of building on the successes of those who came before.