Erik Martinson’s career with UND Athletics began in 2005 as a work-study student, where he gained early experience in the department’s operations. He was hired full-time in 2009 as an accounting technician in the business office and advanced through multiple roles over the next decade, including Associate Athletics Director for Operations, before being named Deputy Director of Athletics and Chief Operating Officer in 2022.
As COO, Martinson oversees all operational aspects of the athletics department, including strategic master planning, capital projects and day-to-day departmental operations. He provides leadership across internal and external functions to ensure alignment with UND’s long-term vision and goals, while managing resources and processes that support the success of student-athletes, coaches, staff and fans of UND.
Martinson has played a pivotal role in UND’s national presence, serving on key NCAA committees—including chairing the Men’s and Women’s Ice Hockey Rules Committee—and currently representing the NCHC on the NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Rules Subcommittee. He also coordinates and leads many NCAA Ice Hockey Regionals and most recently been awarded as the host institution team for the 2026 NCAA Frozen Four in Las Vegas.
He also led the successful implementation of UND’s athletics master plan, which delivered major projects such as Albrecht Field, the Hyslop at Memorial Village and the Nodak Insurance Company Sports Performance Center. These initiatives required extensive collaboration with developers, the City of Grand Forks, the University, the UND Foundation and numerous stakeholders, showcasing Martinson’s ability to drive complex projects and foster strategic partnerships. Additionally, he oversaw the planning and construction of the $19.5 million, 150,000-square-foot Frederick “Fritz” Pollard Jr. Athletic Center built in 2015.
Earlier in his career, Martinson managed day-to-day business operations for UND Athletics, including budgeting, financial oversight, accounts payable/receivable, and team travel reconciliation.
He is a 2011 graduate of the University of North Dakota.
A native of Roseau, Minn., Martinson was a multi-sport athlete in high school, lettering in football, hockey, and baseball. He and his wife, Natalie—former head women’s golf coach at UND—reside in Grand Forks with their two daughters, Blair and Ellie.
