Oberlin, Ohio - Oberlin College Associate Vice President for Athletics Advancement and Delta Lodge Director of Athletics & Physical Education Natalie Winkelfoos announced that longtime volleyball coach Erica Rau will be continuing her administrative duties in full time capacity as she transitions away from coaching. 

Rau, who recently completed her 13th season as head volleyball coach, has long served the department in multiple roles as assistant athletics director, senior woman administrator, and as the deputy Title IX coordinator for athletics. Additionally, she works closely with student services and is the leader of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).

"Our athletics department has experienced a great deal of growth since Erica's arrival 13 years ago and she has always played an integral role within those advancements as a coach and member of our administrative team," Winkelfoos said. "It is exciting to be continuing our work together on behalf of the institution, our student-athletes and staff."

The winningest coach in program history, Rau recorded 111 victories in her career and led the Yeowomen into the North Coast Athletic Conference Tournament in each season, which included a No.4 seed this past fall. Additionally, she mentored senior Taylor Gwynne to NCAC Player of the Year honors and has coached 19 All-NCAC performers. 

A member of the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) board of directors, Rau is also an active participant of Women Leaders in College Sports and has twice attended the WeCOACH Women Coaches Academy. Furthermore, she has guided her teams to AVCA All-Academic honors in each year since 2011.

"I'm grateful for all the student-athletes I've had the opportunity to coach over these past 13 years," Rau said. " I'm looking forward to extending my reach to mentor even more student-athletes in my new role.  I know that I can make an even bigger impact as an administrator, and am ecstatic I have the opportunity to do it at Oberlin." 

As part of the athletics senior leadership team, Rau has organized numerous educational training sessions and speakers for coaches and athletes. Additionally, she ensures the department is in compliance with all Title IX requirements and is the liaison to the Office of Student Life. 

Across campus, Rau has served on the Leadership and Dialogue Summit Planning Committee, Mental Health Coalition, Student Support Committee, and Retention and Student Success Task Force, and was secretary of the Administrative and Professional Staff Council from 2020-2023.

A national search for Rau's successor is underway. Futhermore, assistant coach Katie Stansbury is transitioning to a part time role with the program as she has accepted a full time position outside of coaching.