VERMILLION, S.D. — Thanks to the support of Coyotes across the nation, the Yote Fund announced that a record $32.2 million was raised during the 2025-26 season, topping the previous record set in 2012 by over 50%. 4,331 gifts were made to athletics from, an increase of 17% over the prior year.
 
"This historic year is a powerful reflection of the generosity of Coyote Nation," said South Dakota Athletic Director Jon Schemmel. "It is indicative of the momentum we are building in Coyote Athletics, and we are incredibly grateful to Coyote Nation for their shared vision and commitment to our excellence. These investments are transformative for our future and better positions the department as an asset on our campus and the Vermillion community."
 
Contributions to athletics invested heavily in student-athlete scholarships, individual athletic programs, and facilities.
 
Headlined by the landmark $20 million gift from the late Mr. Denny Sanford, FY26 saw several other impactful investments across the department.  Highlights include five additional contributions of $1 million or more as well as 19 different athletic funds receiving six-figure investments. These gifts provide tremendous opportunity for the future and are making immediate impact on Coyote Athletics.
 
The First Bank & Trust Soccer complex received new turf over the summer. The DakotaDome will receive over $2 million in upgrades throughout the 2026-27 year, including the new Midco Club, that will enhance gameday experiences and other operational functions. Additionally, the Gassen Family Fieldhouse will have a groundbreaking ceremony this fall (details coming soon) and will open in 2028.
 
The annual Calling All Coyotes auction raised over $900,000 this past spring, set an event record for the third-straight year. The last three years of the event have combined to raise over $2.3 million. After the 2025 event that saw an increased amount from 2024 of over $200,000, the total earned this year again went up nearly $100,000 and hit the $900,000 mark for the first time ever. In total, the Calling All Coyotes auction has now raised over $5 million dollars for the Yote Fund since its inception 13 years ago.
 
The Yote Fund holistic giving model was introduced in early 2025. It is led by Logan Bornholdt (Logan.Bornholdt@usdfoundation.org) and supports all 18 athletic programs and 400+ student-athletes at the University of South Dakota. Since its inception, The Yote Fund and USD Athletics have raised a record total of $47 million in cash and pledges.
 
For more information on how you can support South Dakota student-athletes, email the Yote Fund at YoteFund@usdfoundation.org or call 605-677-5527.