Landon Ruesink is a standout dual-sport student-athlete at Dakota Wesleyan University, where he has been a four-year starter in both football and baseball while maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA as an accounting major. His remarkable balance of academic excellence, athletic achievement, and community impact earned him the NAIA’s prestigious A.O. Duer Award, the association’s highest national honor recognizing scholarship, character, and service.

On the field, Landon served as the Tigers’ everyday shortstop in 2025, anchoring the defense and hitting in the top half of the lineup. He posted a .284 batting average and a .380 on-base percentage, ranking among the team leaders in both categories, and led the team in quality at-bats during conference play. He reached base safely in nearly 20 consecutive at-bats and played a pivotal role in helping the Tigers reach their first conference tournament in six seasons. On the gridiron, he excelled as an all-conference defensive back and special teams contributor.

Beyond athletics, Landon has dedicated extensive time to South Dakota Special Olympics, Habitat for Humanity, and his local food pantry. During severe flooding in Mitchell, he volunteered countless hours filling sandbags and assisting families with cleanup efforts. He also officiates youth sports and supports athletic clinics, mentoring the next generation. Through every commitment, Landon exemplifies servant leadership and a relentless drive to make a positive impact.

“To say that Landon Ruesink is an impact player for us is an understatement. He is a talented player who is willing to do whatever the team needs to be successful. He does not have an ego, and he has put that on display multiple times in a short amount of time at DWU. He is also a tremendous leader on the baseball team. I have not been around many dual-sport athletes that can be All-Conference in two different sports, but that is exactly what Landon is for DWU.”

—Ross Cimpl, Dakota Wesleyan University athletic director