The 10^th annual Calling All Coyotes – A Red Tie Event held April 14 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center saw a crowd of more than 800 and raise approximately $378,000, which will be used to support the University of South Dakota student-athletes through The Howling Pack. The event serves as an evening of celebration dedicated to the achievements of USD student-athletes, while recognizing a community that helps create opportunities for their success.
 
"This event always speaks volumes to how integral The Howling Pack, alumni and supporters are to the success of both our student-athletes and our programs," said USD athletic director David Herbster. "It's an honor to be able to recognize the accomplishments of our department, while simultaneously raising money to support the scholarships that give our student-athletes an opportunity to succeed in all aspects of their collegiate careers."
 
CorTrust Bank served as the presenting sponsor for the evening, which included silent and live auctions with auctioneer Wayne Haines, drinks, hors d'oeuvres and a plated dinner. Notable attendees included numerous Coyote coaches, staff members and student-athletes. Voice of the Coyotes John Thayer of Coyote Sports Properties and Jay Elsen of the Midco Sports Network served as emcees.
 
"It's been three years since we moved our event to the larger space within the Sioux Falls Convention Center and I am amazed at how comfortable our 800+ guests were," said Andy Carr, senior director of development for athletics. "From the multitude of silent auction items to the various games and photo opportunities, I can't give enough thanks to The Event Company, Pinnacle Productions, all Calling All Coyotes committee members, The Howling Pack and every volunteer that dedicated their time to making this event one for the books."
 
A weeklong stay in Costa Rica, a vacation in Belize, a Las Vegas UFC Experience, and a trip to the 2023 Men's Final Four were among the many items sold during the live auction. With this year's total of nearly $378,000, the Calling All Coyotes Auction has raised more than $3.177 million for the Howling Pack and student-athlete scholarship over the last 10 years.
 
"I am continuously amazed by the support of Coyote Nation and this year's event was no exception," said Hillary Sosinski, the Howling Pack's assistant director of events and communications. "This event is unlike any other, with coaches and student-athletes getting to interact with some of the most loyal Coyotes. We broke records this year, and I can't wait to see what we can do next year!"
 
In addition to presenting sponsor CorTrust Bank, other event sponsors included: a Loyal Coyote Supporter, Sanford Health, First PREMIER Bankcard, First Dakota National Bank, Eide Bailly, First Bank & Trust, Scheels, Daktronics, Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort, Maguire Iron, Schoeneman's, Coyote Sports Properties and RBC Wealth Management – James Clement.
 
The 11th annual Calling All Coyotes Auction is set for April of 2024. More details to come.