Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, SD and Mount Marty University in Yankton, SD will name their exciting annual football matchup the Dakota Railroad Rivalry. The next game, and first with the new name, will be played in Mitchell on September 7, 2024. The two teams produced an instant classic in September 2023 when Dakota Wesleyan prevailed in double overtime, 51-45, in Yankton. CorTrust Bank, which has locations in both Mitchell and Yankton, is the game’s sponsor.
“Since our first year competing in football in 2021, we have enjoyed the competitive and positive atmosphere of all three games with Dakota Wesleyan University. We are thrilled to continue to build on this in-state GPAC matchup and to celebrate these two great universities with exciting and unforgettable experiences for our students, alumni, and fans,” said Marc Long, Mount Marty University president.
DWU president Dan Kittle is eager for the upcoming match. “This rivalry game is what collegiate athletics is all about — two institutions that desperately want to beat each other when they meet on the field, but share a mutual respect that results in sportsmanship, coupled with the support of fans and members of their respective communities that bring the energy that makes these competitions special. I appreciate CorTrust for helping us make this happen, and I can’t wait for the game next fall.”
The two schools decided on the name Dakota Railroad Rivalry to pay homage to past games between Dakota Wesleyan and Yankton College, which stopped awarding diplomas in 1984 but retains a proud football history. By the year 1915, football contests between the two schools had become so popular that a special train took students to and from Yankton to Mitchell for a 50-cent fare. That train was also used to ferry fans and students to see matchups between Mitchell High School and Yankton High School.
Just 83 miles apart, both schools see a lot of potential in the annual football game and appreciate CorTrust’s involvement. “We love playing Dakota Wesleyan across all sports and see the Dakota Railroad Rivalry as an opportunity to promote the respective missions of the two universities. We thank CorTrust for sponsoring this game and promoting higher education in South Dakota,” said Andy Bernatow, Mount Marty University athletic director.
DWU interim athletic director and head football coach Ross Cimpl is very familiar with the two teams’ relationship. “The Dakota Wesleyan and Mount Marty football games have been great to be part
“These two teams made history three seasons ago when they played the first football game in Mount Marty school history. Adding a name and trophy to this game just adds to the excitement of this matchup between two great programs and universities. We are looking forward to the future of this rivalry and the excitement and energy it will bring to our fans, players, and alumni.”
The two schools announced the creation of the Dakota Railroad Rivalry during the men’s and women’s basketball games between the two schools today in Yankton. The schools will announce at a later date the creation of a traveling trophy that will be housed at the winning university each year.