GRAND FORKS, N.D. -- The University of North Dakota Athletics Department and its football program mourn the passing of former All-American Ben Olson, who died unexpectedly this past weekend in Lubbock, Texas.

Olson, who was originally from Windom, Minn., played at UND from 1999 through 2003. He was the starting right tackle on the school's NCAA Division II National Championship team as a sophomore in 2001 and was named the North Central Conference Offensive Lineman of the Year following the 2003 season, which was his third as a starter along UND's offensive front. 

"We were all saddened to hear of Ben's passing at such a young age," said head football coach Bubba Schweigert, who was the defensive coordinator at UND during Olson's tenure. "He was a tremendous football player and former All-American that was beloved by his coaches and teammates. I always remember the passion that Ben had for the game and when his playing days were completed, he took that passion into the coaching ranks where he had just as much success."

Olson was named to the All-North Central Conference Team as a junior and senior. He also racked up seven different All-America accolades following his final collegiate season. Four of those were first-team nods, including from the Associated Press, American Football Coaches Association, D2Football.com and Daktronics, Inc.

Olson graduated from UND in 2004 with a bachelor's degree in social science. Following his graduation, Olson joined the coaching ranks with his first positiong being a graduate assistant for his alma mater from 2005-06. He then served three seasons as the offensive line coach at Minnesota-Moorhead (2007-09). His next stop was at Jamestown University where he spent three seasons as the co-offensive coordinator and offensive line coach for the Jimmies (2010-12).

Olson was living in Greeley, Colo., with his wife of four years, Sue, and working for his family's trucking company at the time of his passing.

UND Athletics would like to extend its deepest sympathies to Ben's family and friends. The family has set up the "Ben Olson Memorial Fund" with all donations going to the UND football program.

-- UND --