NEWS CHRONICLE PHOTO BY JAMES BRANT — South Tama County senior standout Tommy Tyynismaa, surrounded by his family and the Trojan coaching staff, recently signed his letter of intent to run cross country and track at Iowa State University.

Last Saturday marked the day where South Tama’s Tommy Tyynismaa officially committed to be an Iowa State Cyclone next year. Tyynismaa was offered by Iowa State to run both cross country and track, and after multiple visits to the campus, he made the decision to commit. Tyynismaa’s achievements in cross country and track are almost too numerous to write them all down. The standout accomplishments are back-to-back 7th place finishes at state cross country. In track, he has two runner-up placements in both the 800 and 1600 meter runs, along with his multiple state relay and Drake Relays appearances.

When asked about his commitment, Tyynismaa was thankful for the new opportunity.

“Not many people from South Tama go on to play collegiate sports, yet alone Division One so I am very thankful to be put in this situation,” he said.

He also talked about what the commitment and the STC community has meant to him.

“I want to give back to this town for what it has provided me with and give it some credit. I feel that this is the best way to give back to the community because of all the support they give,” he said.

Lastly, he weighed in on why he chose ISU, which is just a short drive west on Highway 30 from Tama-Toledo.

“I feel that Iowa State was the best choice for me to grow as a person and as an athlete,” he said.

As next fall rolls around Tyynismaa, his teammates, coaches, and other supporters will look forward to seeing the legendary Trojan athlete take on a new running adventure at Iowa State.