Brookings, S.D. —Members of the Brookings Rotary Club were treated to an inspiring program this week featuring South Dakota State University Women’s Soccer Head Coach Brock Thompson and senior player Shelby Hopeau. The duo shared powerful messages about leadership, community, and the values that define the Jackrabbit soccer program. “What a picture of servant leadership you have for this community,” Thompson said, thanking Rotary members for their volunteer work. “The people that work behind the scenes to make sure some of these community functions happen—it’s really inspirational.”
Thompson, who has led the program through years of consistent success, reflected on SDSU Soccer’s history and purpose. “We’re really proud of some of the success that we’ve had,” he said. “Since becoming a Division I program, we’ve won 15 conference championships, and in 2008 we were the first SDSU team to win an NCAA tournament game. But that’s not what our program’s about—that’s just a byproduct. Our vision is to become a destination program, one that attracts players, fans, and community because there’s something different about South Dakota State soccer.”
He explained that the program’s foundation rests on three key values: growth mindset, family, and what the team calls “True Mental Toughness.” “True Mental Toughness means giving your very best, having a great attitude, and treating people well—regardless of your circumstance,” Thompson said. “When we do those things, the results take care of themselves.”
Senior midfielder Shelby Hopeau, originally from Hawaii, shared an emotional story of perseverance, belonging, and family. “When I think about what makes SDSU women’s soccer special, it’s not just our wins or practices—it’s the people and the family we’ve built here,” she said. After losing her father in 2024, Hopeau said the support of her teammates and coaches helped her through the darkest period of her life. “The program has been a light for me,” she said through tears. “They prayed with me, cared for me, and reminded me that I wasn’t alone. Even when life hurts, there’s still so much love, so much family around me. That’s what makes SDSU so special—it’s a place where you’re seen, valued, and cared for beyond the field.”
Thompson praised Hopeau and her teammates as the heart of the program. “The best part of SDSU soccer is the people who come through it,” he said. “Players like Shelby show what our values look like in real life.”