University of Minnesota Athletics
Sundbo Returns to Gophers as Assistant Coach
7/18/2023 1:30:00 PM | Rowing
Former rower back with 'U'
MINNEAPOLIS - Former Golden Gopher and 2015 graduate of the University of Minnesota, Mari Sundbo, is returning to her alma mater as an assistant coach with the varsity rowing program and also will serve as the recruiting coordinator.
"We are thrilled to have Mari back on campus! As a former Gopher she appreciates both the history and tradition of our team and athletics department," head coach Alicea Strodel said. "She is invested in appropriately challenging our athletes to get the most out of their experience from an athletic and personal growth perspective. Mari will serve as a strong role model for our team as she leads herself with integrity and does not shy away from hard work. This is an exciting hire for us!"
A native of Minnetonka, Minn., she previously spent four years at UCF working with the fours, helping the crew to runner-up finishes at the American Athletic Conference Championship in both 2021 and 2022. During the 2023 season, she led the 2V8 boat that picked up a bronze medal at the conference championship regatta.
Before her time at UCF, Sundbo worked for three years as an assistant coach at Bucknell where she was involved with all aspects of the program, including operations and recruiting. She led the varsity four to a silver medal at the Patriot League Championships in 2018 and 2019 and guided the team to a second-place result in team points at the 2019 championships.
"I am very honored to be heading back to Minnesota and would like to thank Coach Strodel for bringing me onto the Gopher rowing staff," Sundbo said. "I know firsthand this is an exceptional place, and the mission and vision Coach Strodel has for the future of the program is exciting. I look forward to being back on the Mississippi River contributing to the success of this team in the Big Ten Conference."
Sundbo was a three-year member of the Golden Gophers rowing team between 2012-15. She was named a team captain for the 2014-15 campaign and earned three Academic All-Big Ten selections. She also earned the Cheryl Wick Scholarship and Donna J. Olson Award in her final season.
She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in parks, recreation, and leisure studies with a minor in sport management.
"We are thrilled to have Mari back on campus! As a former Gopher she appreciates both the history and tradition of our team and athletics department," head coach Alicea Strodel said. "She is invested in appropriately challenging our athletes to get the most out of their experience from an athletic and personal growth perspective. Mari will serve as a strong role model for our team as she leads herself with integrity and does not shy away from hard work. This is an exciting hire for us!"
A native of Minnetonka, Minn., she previously spent four years at UCF working with the fours, helping the crew to runner-up finishes at the American Athletic Conference Championship in both 2021 and 2022. During the 2023 season, she led the 2V8 boat that picked up a bronze medal at the conference championship regatta.
Before her time at UCF, Sundbo worked for three years as an assistant coach at Bucknell where she was involved with all aspects of the program, including operations and recruiting. She led the varsity four to a silver medal at the Patriot League Championships in 2018 and 2019 and guided the team to a second-place result in team points at the 2019 championships.
"I am very honored to be heading back to Minnesota and would like to thank Coach Strodel for bringing me onto the Gopher rowing staff," Sundbo said. "I know firsthand this is an exceptional place, and the mission and vision Coach Strodel has for the future of the program is exciting. I look forward to being back on the Mississippi River contributing to the success of this team in the Big Ten Conference."
Sundbo was a three-year member of the Golden Gophers rowing team between 2012-15. She was named a team captain for the 2014-15 campaign and earned three Academic All-Big Ten selections. She also earned the Cheryl Wick Scholarship and Donna J. Olson Award in her final season.
She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in parks, recreation, and leisure studies with a minor in sport management.
Head of the Mississippi Hype
Wednesday, October 08
Third Varsity Four Wins Again at B1G Invite
Monday, April 21
Second Novice Eight Wins at B1G Invite
Monday, April 21
First Varsity Four Wins at B1G Invite
Saturday, April 19