In the Southeast if you mention USF, most sports fans know you’re referring to the University of South Florida. In San Francisco’s Bay area, if you talk about USF, it’s the University of San Francisco. But in America’s Midwestern heartland, USF now refers to only one place—the University of Sioux Falls. Under Head Coach Kalen DeBoer, Sioux Falls just won their second straight NAIA National Championship, defeating Lindenwood in the title game, 25-22. In fact, since DeBoer took over for legendary coach Bob Young in 2005, his resume includes:
*Three NAIA Championships (2005, 2008, and 2009)
*An overall five-year record of 67-3.
*A stunning 28-13 win earlier this year over the University of North Dakota, a Football Championship Subdivision team.
*A current 29 game-winning streak.
DeBoer played at USF where he was an All-American wide receiver and the school record holder in receptions (234), receiving yards (3.400) and touchdowns (33). He then became a graduate assistant at USF and eventually moved up to offensive coordinator, a position he held from 2000-2004. At 32, DeBoer was named head coach, and, in his first year guiding the Cougars, USF won the NAIA Championship.
USF plans to move up to Division II status in 2011. DeBoer and his staff promise they’ll be ready for the change. But will their competition?