SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — College football fans gathered at a local Sioux Falls restaurant to watch their respective teams battle for trip to the FCS championship game on Saturday. While KELOLAND News didn’t come across any NDSU or Montana State supporters, plenty of Coyote and Jackrabbit fans were at Session Ale Works.
The Jackrabbits and Bison were tied at halftime when KELOLAND News arrived that afternoon. SDSU fans were hopeful.
“As an SDSU fan, it’s been really fun the last two years to just see them completely dominate. So obviously, as a fan, we hope that trend continues and we can see them go to Frisco,” SDSU fan Anthony Erickson said.
“I went to the first playoff game. I guess I don’t know how to describe it. There’s no way to put it into words,” SDSU fan Jasper Scholtz said.
Ultimately, the Jackrabbits fell to North Dakota State 28-21.
“I was hoping we would pull ahead a little bit quicker. You know, obviously, I want to see SDSU win,” SDSU fan and alumna Dawn Tomac said.
Coyote fans were on the hunt for a trip to Frisco, too.
“Well, we’ll see what happens when it comes down to it. There’s a couple of hard-fought football games coming up. We’ll see if USD can make their first championship appearance. I think we’ll be heading that way,” USD fan Chris Whempner said just before the USD vs. Montana State kickoff.
“We’ve got a good friend on the USD team, so we’re cheering them on today. Session is a great place to come to gather,” USD fan Gayl Bear said.
While neither South Dakota team saw the turnout they had hoped for, there was still a silver lining to the day—a place for local fans to come together to show their support.
“It’s a big day for South Dakota in general,” Session Ale Works bar manager Todd Burns said. “We’re proud of of both programs and where they’ve gotten in the season. And we’re happy to do our own little part in participating with the FCS Watch Party.”
Session Ale Works is located off of West 12th Street in Sioux Falls.
