Susan Jean “Sue” Woodstra (born May 21, 1957) is an American former volleyball player and coach. As a member of the United States women’s national volleyball team, she won a silver medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. After her playing career, Woodstra served as head coach at several collegiate programs, including the University of Pittsburgh and the University of California, Berkeley.
Early life and education
Woodstra was born in Colton, California. She attended the University of Southern California (USC), where she played for the USC Trojans women's volleyball team. While at USC, she contributed to the team’s success, including the 1981 NCAA women’s volleyball championship.
Playing career
Woodstra joined the United States national volleyball team in 1978 and remained a member until 1984. She competed in major international tournaments, such as the 1981 World Cup (fourth place) and the 1982 World Championships (bronze medal). At the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, she served as team captain and helped the United States secure the silver medal in the women’s volleyball competition.
Coaching career
Following her retirement from international play, Woodstra transitioned to coaching. She was head coach of the University of Pittsburgh women's volleyball program from 1989 to 1992, leading the team to several successful seasons. In 1995, she became head coach at the University of California, Berkeley, a position she held until 2000. Under her guidance, the California Golden Bears achieved multiple winning records and NCAA tournament appearances.
Later activities
After stepping down from collegiate coaching, Woodstra remained involved in volleyball through various capacities, including mentorship, commentary, and participation in volleyball clinics and camps. She is recognized for her contributions both as an elite athlete and as a coach who helped develop subsequent generations of players.
References
- “Susan Woodstra.” Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Susan_Woodstra.
- “Sue Woodstra.” Olympedia. Retrieved from https://www.olympedia.org/athletes/53272.
- “Woodstra, Susan (1957‑).” Encyclopedia.com. Retrieved from https://www.encyclopedia.com/women/dictionaries-thesauruses-pictures-and-press-releases/woodstra-susan-1957.
