DWU Athletics dedicate athletic offices in memory of Barry Kusel

MITCHELL, S.D. – It was a day full of laughter and tears as the Dakota Wesleyan University athletic department dedicated the offices to former DWU-great Barry Kusel.

 Kusel, a four-year starter and letterwinner in football, playing offensive and defensive end. Kusel distinguished himself as one of the best ends in the South Dakota Intercollegiate Conference. For his efforts, Kusel won All-Conference honors in 1967 and 1968 and National Association of Intercollegiate Athletic All-District XII honors in 1968. Kusel was also an outstanding track performer in various events. He won a number of meets during in four years, but his most memorable victory came in the spring of 1967 when he set a school record in the half mile, becoming the first DWU runner in history to break the two-minute barrier by winning the SDIC half-mile championships with a time of 1:57.04.

 "Barry was a prime example of the core values of Dakota Wesleyan, and it's apparent he touched the lives of many during his time at DWU," Director of Athletics Jon Hart said. "It is an honor and privilege to work in a facility and space dedicated to him. I want to thank his family, classmates and teammates for their generosity in his honor."

 Former football coach Gordon Zapp spoke about the type of character Kusel represented on and off the field throughout his time at DWU. Teammate and DWU Hall-of-Famer Mike Denney called on other teammates as each stood and reflected on their playing times on the gridiron with Kusel.

 In remembrance of Kusel, there is now a plaque that will hang in the DWU athletic offices. The plaque reads, 'This gift is given in memory of Barry Kusel '69 and his teammates. Many former athletes are equally deserving to be recognized; however, as a team captain and member of the DWU Athletic Hall of Fame, it is fitting that Barry's name be chosen as the representative from his era of former student-athletes. Barry personified leadership on the football field, on the track and in the campus community.'