South Dakota volleyball returns to Sanford Pentagon

Contact:
Jon Berg
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / jon.berg@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D., July 28, 2021 – The Sanford Pentagon will host a Summit League volleyball match between the University of South Dakota and University of St. Thomas at 7 p.m. on Oct. 7.

“We’re excited to welcome back the Coyotes to the Sanford Pentagon,” said Jesse Smith, vice president of operations for Sanford Sports. “Hosting another NCAA Division I volleyball match right here in the heart of the Midwest is an incredible experience not only for the players and staff, but the fans as well. The Coyotes have a very fun and enthusiastic fan base. Their fans and the talent these two teams bring to the court will set up a great atmosphere for spectators.”

The University of South Dakota wrapped up the 2020 season with a 15-7 overall record. The Coyotes clinched the Summit League Tournament held at the Sanford Pentagon earlier this year, which advanced the team to the NCAA tournament.

“We are very excited that we are able to return to Sioux Falls and play a match at the Pentagon,” said Leanne Williamson, head women’s volleyball coach at the University of South Dakota. “The last time we played up there in the regular season, we had a great turnout for the match.  The fans blew our expectations out of the water!  In addition, after the Pentagon hosted the Summit League championships, I am anxious to get back up there to continue to show what South Dakota volleyball has to offer.”

St. Thomas will make its debut this year as they enter their first season in the Summit League. The Tommies previously competed in the NCAA Division III level. The team had an abbreviated season last year, finishing 3-2 overall. The Tommies are coached by Thanh Pham, who is entering his 19th season as head coach with the team.

Learn more about USD’s volleyball schedule.

Ticket prices and availability will be announced at a later date.

About the Sanford Pentagon

The cornerstone of the Sanford Sports Complex in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is the Sanford Pentagon, a 160,000-square-foot, five-sided facility featuring nine basketball courts, including the 1950s/1960s-inspired Heritage Court. The venue combines state-of-the-art amenities — including high-definition video boards and executive suites — with period-specific finishes that are a nod to the nostalgic days of basketball.

The 3,200-seat Pentagon is home to Sanford POWER Basketball Academy, Sanford POWER Volleyball Academy, the NBA G League’s Sioux Falls Skyforce, Augustana University men’s and women’s basketball, the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference Women’s and Men’s Basketball tournaments and the South Dakota High School Basketball Hall of Fame. For more information, visit sanfordpentagon.com.