Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senator John Thune of South Dakota congratulated the South Dakota State University (SDSU) Jackrabbits on their second consecutive Division I national championship in football. In a speech delivered in the Senate, Thune praised the team's performance and highlighted their impressive winning streak.

Thune commended the Jackrabbits' defense, which allowed an average of just 9.27 points per game and gave up a total of only 15 points in four postseason games. He specifically mentioned a pivotal play in the championship game where linebacker Adam Bock made a crucial stop at the 1-yard line, preventing the opposing team from scoring a touchdown.

Thune also acknowledged the individual achievements of quarterback Mark Gronowski, who won the Walter Payton Award for outstanding offensive player, and center Gus Miller, who received the Rimington Award for best FCS center. He described the team as "dynamite" and expressed his pride in their hard work and success.

In addition to football, Thune emphasized the importance of basketball in South Dakota. He recounted attending various high school basketball games during the holidays, including the Jones County Invitational tournament in his hometown of Murdo. Thune shared the history of the tournament, which was co-founded by his father and his high school basketball coach nearly six decades ago. He reminisced about his own experiences playing in the tournament and the impact it had on his life, including a chance meeting with Congressman Jim Abdnor that eventually led him to a career in public service.

Thune concluded his speech by highlighting the significance of sports in South Dakota's way of life. He described them as a unifying force that brings communities together and fosters important life lessons. Thune expressed his anticipation for the upcoming sports season and his excitement to support South Dakota's athletes.

In summary, Senator Thune celebrated the South Dakota State University Jackrabbits' football championship, recognized individual accomplishments, and shared personal anecdotes about the Jones County Invitational basketball tournament and its influence on his life. He emphasized the importance of sports in South Dakota's culture and expressed his support for the state's athletes.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=DD0A29E0-4B80-4FF7-A32D-1D0AE12AA363