SIOUX FALLS — On May 25, Berkeley Engelland officially put a bow on one of South Dakota’s all-time best track and field careers. 

The Mount Vernon/Plankinton senior won the Class A girls 400-meter dash in :56.10 seconds, earning her 12th ever state championship. 

“I don’t know if there’s a way to describe it,” Engelland said about the 12 state titles. “It’s pretty special. It feels awesome.”

She added a first-place finish in the 800-meter run (2:14.84) on Friday, along with a second-place finish in the 200-meter dash (:25.79) and a fourth-place finish in the 100-meter dash (:12.44) during the meet.  

Engelland, who has won multiple titles ranging from the 100-to-800-meter events, said it was always the dream to win multiple championships. But she didn't think it would be a reality. 

“I don’t know if anyone does,” Engelland said. “It’s pretty amazing to step up there how many times I did and I have everyone around me to thank honestly.”

Engelland especially credited her family for driving her to succeed. 

“I have a competitive family,” Engelland said. “I have a brother and two sisters that we push each other every day. Everything we do is a competition, but honestly a lot goes out to my family, coaches and our fans that have surrounded me all these years. I wouldn’t be here without them.” 

She’ll join one of her siblings next season at the University of South Dakota, where brother Reed Rus is a member of the football team. 

At USD, Engelland will be a member of the USD track and field team. Engelland, also a volleyball and basketball player, is looking forward to focusing on one sport in college. 

“I have never really been able to train year round because I’ve had volleyball and basketball,” Engelland said. “That’s the price you pay when you go to a small school, but I am just looking forward to that.” 

But she’ll forever have the memories of representing the Titans on the state’s biggest stage at Howard Wood Stadium. 

“It’s pretty awesome to have everyone here,” Engelland said. “All these fans, whether they are cheering for you or not, they are respectful and awesome.”