ALISO VIEJO, Calif. - Longtime Sonoma State men’s soccer coach Marcus Ziemer passed away early Tuesday morning in Dortmund, Germany.

Ziemer, a former Sonoma State student-athlete who went on to build one of the most accomplished coaching careers in NCAA Division II men’s soccer, led the Seawolves program for 35 years and became one of the most respected figures to ever patrol the sidelines in collegiate soccer.

After earning two all-conference honors as a student-athlete at Sonoma State, Ziemer transitioned into coaching and was named head coach of the Seawolves in 1991. In his first season at the helm, he guided Sonoma State to a national runner-up finish, setting the tone for a program that would remain among the nation’s most competitive for decades.

Over the course of his career, Ziemer led the Seawolves to eight conference championships and nine NCAA Tournament appearances. His most notable season came in 2002, when he guided Sonoma State to the NCAA Division II National Championship with a 20–3–1 record.

Ziemer compiled a career coaching record of 372–215–79 (.618 winning percentage) and ranks ninth all-time in NCAA Division II in career wins. 

His leadership and success were recognized throughout his career. Ziemer was named the conference Coach of the Year six times and earned regional Coach of the Year honors twice. In 2002, following the Seawolves’ national championship season, he was named the national Coach of the Year.

Beyond the wins and accolades, Ziemer was widely respected for his commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field and for the lasting impact he had on generations of players at Sonoma State.

“We are shocked and saddened to hear of Marcus’ passing,” said CCAA commissioner Allen Hardison. “Marcus made an incredible impact on so many young men throughout his time as head coach at Sonoma State. We were fortunate to have him in the CCAA, and I am grateful for all his contributions to our conference over the years. Our thoughts go out to his family and loved ones during this time.”

Ziemer passed away after suffering a traumatic brain injury caused by an electric scooter accident.

He is survived by his wife, Trish (Gretton), a member of Sonoma State’s 1990 women’s soccer national championship team, and their three children, Thomas, Taylor, and Tera.

For more on coach Marcus Ziemer, read the article posted by The Press Democrat’s Austin Murphy. Marcus Ziemer, longtime Sonoma State soccer coach, ‘titan’ in North Bay soccer community, dies at 62.