VERMILLION, S.D.—University of South Dakota's new 6,000-seat arena set to open ahead of the 2016-17 academic year will be named Sanford Coyote Sports Center. Sanford Health secured the naming rights to the new facility after its $20 million donation launched the development of an arena, a science, health and research lab, and an outdoor track and soccer complex back in 2012.
 
"It is only fitting that as we close in on the completion of our facility project, that we put a name on the arena and celebrate the progress and vision of USD and Sanford Health," said USD Athletic Director David Herbster. "The Sanford Coyote Sports Center will not only benefit student-athletes, but it will ultimately enrich the academic experience of our students for generations to come."
 
Sanford Health has had a long-standing relationship with USD and has served as the sports medicine provider for the University since 2005. A 15-year extension of that agreement was announced in 2012. Sanford's gift also supports scholarships, faculty, and the University's health services program, including the addition of classrooms and office space for USD's Kinesiology and Sport Science Department.
 
"USD and Sanford Health have enjoyed a tremendous relationship that has positively impacted students and student-athletes alike," said Kelby Krabbenhoft, president and CEO of Sanford Health. "We commit deeply to the schools we support by investing in projects like the Sanford Coyote Sports Center that enhance the student experience and help prepare the next generation of Sanford employees."
 
About Sanford Health
Sanford Health is an integrated health system headquartered in the Dakotas. It is one of the largest health systems in the nation with 43 hospitals and nearly 250 clinics in nine states and four countries. Sanford Health's 27,000 employees, including 1,400 physicians, make it the largest employer in the Dakotas. Nearly $1 billion in gifts from philanthropist Denny Sanford have allowed for several initiatives, including global children's clinics, genomic medicine and specialized centers researching cures for type 1 diabetes, breast cancer and other diseases. For more information, visit sanfordhealth.org.