Lizzie Mitchell joined the Pacific Lutheran University community in the summer of 2022 as the head coach of the powerhouse Lute women's rowing program.
Mitchell comes to Luteville with extensive experience at the collegiate level, winning four national titles as an assistant coach at NCAA Division III juggernaut Bates College. Mitchell assisted the Bobcats’ program from 2015 to 2021, hoisting national titles in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2021. Mitchell guided Bates to New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) titles in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2021 and was part of the Bates College staff that was tabbed Division III Staff of the Year in 2017, 2018, and 2019 by the Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association.
“Lizzie’s credentials speak for themselves,” said Athletic Director Mike Snyder.
“It’s not every day you have the opportunity to hire a coach with four national titles under their belt. But beyond the championships, Lizzie is the right person for this program for so many reasons. She’s genuine, passionate, and has a vision to build on the great foundation we already have established within the six-time NWC Champion women’s rowing program.”
In addition to working with the national title winning women’s program, Mitchell assisted with the men’s program, helping the Bobcats win NESCAC crowns in 2017, 2018, and 2019 and making the Intercollegiate Rowing Association Championships in 2018 and 2021.
“I’m extremely honored and excited to have been selected as the head coach for the women's rowing team,” said Mitchell.
“PLU has had great success in the past and I look forward to building on the current traditions and values in the hopes of growing the team, and creating not only strong rowers, but influential members of the PLU community and beyond."
Mitchell most recently served as the junior girls rowing coach with the Sammamish Rowing Association during 2021-2022. In that role, Mitchell oversaw training plans for a team of 70-80 rowers, coordinated travel plans for the entire juniors program, and served as the novice masters coach. Mitchell additionally was the club’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator.
Mitchell has experience as a rowing coach at the Northwest Rowing Center, the US Junior National Team Development Camp, and at Waynflete School.
Mitchell has a bachelor degree in recreation management from the University of Vermont and holds a masters in intercollegiate athletic leadership from the University of Washington.
