Mariah Mandelbaum joined the FPU coaching staff in 2011 after completing a stellar four-year career for the Sunbird volleyball team.
In Mandelbaum's four years with the team the Sunbirds won the NAIA National Championship every season and posted a record of 145 wins and just four losses. The team's starting libero during her junior and senior seasons, Mandelbaum led the GSAC in digs both seasons.
Her 636 digs as a senior were the second-best ever single season mark for an FPU libero during the rally scoring era. Her 35 matches with double figures in digs, her junior season, set a school record. Her 1,404 career digs ranks seventh all-time at FPU and her 3.94 digs per set ranks fourth.
After the season she became the first player in FPU's storied volleyball history to earn a tryout with the U.S. National team, getting a personal invite from Karch Kiraly.
Mandelbaum, who also competed in track & field for the Sunbirds, graduated from FPU in 2011 with an exercise science degree. She is now working on a master's degree in sports administration from FPU.
Originally from Fresno, Mandelbaum attended Clovis West High School where she earned varsity letters in volleyball, basketball and badminton. While at FPU, Mandelbaum coached the Central Cal 15 Gold Club volleyball team.
Mandelbaum attends The Well Community Church. Her hobbies include outdoor activities, skiing, cycling and surfing.
