BISMARCK, ND — University of Mary Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Marcus Wagner announced today that Head Men's Golf Coach
Laif Olson and Head Women's Golf Coach
Marion Hernandez will step down from their positions at the conclusion of the upcoming spring season.
Olson and Hernandez, who have led their respective programs in recent years, made the decision to transition from their roles as head coaches. As the two programs enter their next phase of growth and development, both coaches said they hope to remain connected to Marauders golf and continue supporting the university's scholar-athletes and the future of the program.
"On behalf of the entire University of Mary community, we extend our sincere gratitude to these two outstanding men for their leadership, commitment and the countless hours they have invested in our scholar-athletes," Wagner said. "Laif and Marion have represented our university with integrity and professionalism, built programs rooted in character and accountability, and positively shaped the lives of the young men and women they have coached. Their influence extends well beyond the course, and they leave their programs stronger than they found them. We fully support their decision and are grateful that their relationship with Marauders golf will continue in meaningful ways moving forward."
Under their leadership, the men's and women's golf programs emphasized competitive excellence, academic achievement and the holistic development of scholar-athletes. Beyond tournament results, both coaches helped build a culture centered on mentorship, accountability and community.
"This was not an easy decision," Olson said. "Serving as the head coach of the Marauders has been a tremendous honor. I am proud of what our scholar-athletes have accomplished in competition and in the classroom.
"As the program continues to grow, it is ready for expanded leadership to help guide it into its next chapter. I am confident this transition will position Marauders golf for long-term success. I look forward to staying involved and supporting the next chapter of the program."
Olson, who became UMary's head men's golf coach in February 2022, said he plans to spend more time enjoying retirement while continuing to support Marauders golf.
Hernandez joined UMary as an assistant golf coach for both programs in 2021 before becoming head women's coach prior to the 2023–24 season.
"The University of Mary and Marauders Athletics have meant a great deal to me," Hernandez said. "Our scholar-athletes have been a joy to coach, and I am grateful for the relationships built over the years. I believe this transition creates an opportunity for the program to elevate even further with expanded leadership and daily investment, and I remain committed to supporting our golfers and this university in whatever ways I can."
Hernandez was recently promoted to assistant director of online admissions at the University of Mary and plans to remain at the university following the spring season.
During Olson's four seasons leading the men's program, the Marauders produced one All–Northern Sun performer, an NSIC Elite 18 recipient, 19 NSIC All-Academic team members and four Myles Brand All-Academic with Distinction honorees.
On the women's side, Hernandez coached one All-NSIC performer, two NSIC Golfers of the Week, 15 NSIC All-Academic honorees and two Myles Brand All-Academic with Distinction recipients.
In 2024, the
James A. Hauer United Printing Golf Performance Center opened inside the University of Mary Fieldhouse and Wellness Center, providing year-round high-quality practice opportunities for the program.
The University of Mary will begin a national search in the coming weeks to identify full-time leadership for both programs with the goal of continuing to build competitive success and enrollment momentum while maintaining the culture established under the current coaches.
Marauders Athletics will formally recognize and celebrate both coaches and their contributions later this spring.
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