MADISON, S.D. — Russell-Tyler-Ruthton senior defensive back Sean Griesse on Wednesday, Feb. 5, officially signed to join the football program at Dakota State University.
Last Wednesday marked national signing day throughout the country — at both NCAA and NAIA schools. The Trojans are an NAIA member playing in the North Star Athletic Association.
Griesse had a heralded 2024 season, earning his way onto the Class A 11-man all-subdistrict team in the West Subdistrict South.
“The main force for me to sign with DSU was the coaches,” Griesse said. “I got along with them right away, and the players seemed really nice.”
Russell-Tyler-Ruthton’s Sean Griesse (third from left) is joined by parents Trent Griesse and Sarah Lingen plus Dakota State University defensive coordinator Anvil Sinsabaugh for Griesse’s ceremony on Wednesday, Feb. 5 — which was national signing day. (Contributed photo from the RTR School District)
Griesse is just one of several area players to join the ranks at Dakota State, a recruiting class of 49 players — including 42 commitments. There also are seven transfers, including South Dakota State University quarterback Tage Ortman, whose aunt Sonja is Pipestone Area Schools principal.
Other notable signings are PAS quarterback Landon Quist and recent Minnesota West and past Luverne High School running back Ashton Sandbulte.
RTR head coach Brian Baartman said Griesse had marketable traits for the college level.
“Sean has good hands and decent speed,” Baartman explained. “He has good body control (playing defensive back), and he can come up with interceptions. I think he’s a good fit for them.”
Griesse was a versatile, two-way player for the Knights. On defense, he snagged five interceptions — including a pick six — to go with 39 solo tackles, five passes defensed and one fumble recovery. Sean added 25 catches for 435 yards and three TD while playing wide receiver.
“It means a lot to me to be able to continue playing the game I’ve loved my whole life,” Griesse added. “I’m excited to get started.”
As for academics, Griesse said he has not decided on a major course of study. But, he’s leaning toward something related to business.
At DSU, coaches have indicated to Griesse he will likely play either free safety or strong safety. Sean said his ability to track and attack the ball helped him get noticed by the coaching staff.
Sean Griesse, shown here during a preseason scrimmage from August, was a first team all-subdistrict player for the Knights. (Star file photo by Eric Viccaro)
DSU defensive coordinator Anvil Sinsabaugh attended Griesse’s signing in person.
The Trojans, with a roster featuring former PAS linebacker and team captain Cole Paulson, compiled a 6-4 record during the 2024 season. They won two of their final three contests, beating Valley City State (N.D.) 13-6 and Mayville State (N.D.), 7-0.
While at RTR, Griesse has flourished in other sports, including basketball and track and field.
Sean Griesse is the son of Trent Griesse and Sarah Lingen. A link to his highlights on Hudl may be found at: www.hudl.com/athlete/o/16512190/highlights/6701bf890d3b156dae380741.
Editor’s Note: There will be a story on Landon Quist’s signing with DSU in the Thursday, Feb. 20, edition of the Pipestone County Star.
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