Dickinson State University (DSU) has been evaluating ways to expand opportunities for students through curricular and co-curricular offerings. This year, the University received approval to offer additional associate degrees and certificates as part of its dual mission designation.
Dickinson State Athletic Director Pete Stanton saw the addition of these academic programs as an opportunity for the University to increase opportunities in athletics as well.
“Many of our students come to Dickinson State for the opportunity to participate in athletics,” said Stanton. “While we were considering the addition of academic programs, we also felt we could explore opportunities for students to compete at the junior varsity level.”
University leadership evaluated the addition of junior varsity teams and ultimately made a decision to add junior varsity teams in volleyball and men’s and women’s basketball. Varsity baseball, which was cut in 2017 due to funding concerns, and varsity esports will also be added.
The University will be recruiting students for all junior varsity sports with the hope of having rosters ready for the 2019-20 academic year. Varsity baseball will return to competition during the 2020-21 academic year.
“Pete Stanton has done a wonderful job in evaluating athletic programs. He has worked collaboratively with the campus and community to develop a strategic plan for growing enrollment through expanded student athletic opportunities,” said DSU President Thomas Mitzel. “One challenge facing DSU athletics was providing equal opportunity and support for our female athletes. Adding two female junior varsity sports and coed esports allows us to bring back baseball. We are very pleased with this outcome.”
“We recognize that this time of year some students are making final decisions about where to attend college in the fall,” said Stanton. “We have some scholarships available for the upcoming year and would welcome the opportunity to visit with students about academic and athletic opportunities available at DSU.”
