(Thursday, December 8; Sioux Center, Iowa) Isaac Davelaar, a senior at Sioux Falls Christian High School (South Dakota), has announced his intention to attend Dordt and join the Defender cross country and track programs. 

"I am excited to welcome Isaac to our program. He is one of the top runners in South Dakota, a great student, and a perfect fit for our program and Dordt University. The experience he has gained from training and racing at a high level as a member of Sioux Falls Christian's cross country and track and field programs will provide a great base as he transitions to the collegiate level. I anticipate Isaac having an immediate impact within the program, and he will have the opportunity to compete at a high level immediately. I look forward to working with him for the next four years," said Dordt University head cross country coach and assistant track and field coach Nate Wolf. 

Davelaar has personal best of 50.35 in the 400 meters; 1:53.78 in the 800 meters; 4:17 in the 1600 meters and 9:28 in the 3200 meters. He is a five-time state champion in individual events; holds the state meet record in the mile; was the 2020 Gatorade Cross Country Runner of the Year in South Dakota; and is a four-time all-state cross-country runner. Davelaar holds the school record in the 800, 1600 and 3200.  

"I chose Dordt University because of the great culture surrounding the campus and athletic program. I a excited to grow and strengthen my faith in a Christ-centered environment. I am looking forward to continuing to develop as an athlete and a Christian," said Davelaar.  

Isaac is the son of Matthew and Rachel Davelaar of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. He plans to study accounting and finance at Dordt University.  

Dordt University in Sioux Center, Iowa, is a comprehensive Christian college rooted in the Reformed tradition. The Defender athletic program is a part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC), American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) and the Mid-American Collegiate Hockey Association (MACHA). 

U.S. News & World Report, Money Magazine, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review all list Dordt on their best colleges lists. Dordt is home to approximately 1,500 students.