Groton Native Lee T. Raines Releases Sixth Book: 'Legends and Legacies in South Dakota Sports'
- Steve Jurrens
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Groton, SD - Groton native and author Lee T. Raines has released his sixth book, Legends and Legacies in South Dakota Sports. The book is now available for purchase in paperback and on Kindle through Amazon, with more information available at leeraines.com.
Raines, who grew up within the South Dakota public school system, has long understood the crucial role sports play in shaping the state's communities and their history. His new work, drawing on decades of research, explores the deep connections between South Dakota's athletic history, its educational system, and community life.
The author utilized newspaper archives, family interviews, and personal accounts from standout athletes and coaches to illustrate how generations of families helped shape not only sports but also the state’s schools and core values.
“Sports in South Dakota have always been more than games—they’re part of how our communities grow and thrive,” Raines stated. “This book honors the families whose dedication helped build that tradition.”
Raines notes that many of these athletes and coaches chose to return to South Dakota communities after their playing careers to teach, coach, and mentor thousands of students, thus securing this legacy for future generations.
Raines was born in Britton in 1953 and raised in Groton, graduating from Groton High School in 1971 after participating in nearly every sport offered. He has lived in Austin, Texas, since the late 1980s, but his South Dakota roots remain central to his writing. Although he played alongside family members of the legends featured in his latest book, Raines modestly claims his greatest talent was as a spectator.
