5 Questions With Jeff Pedersen

Jeff Pedersen ’02 has had an enduring impact on Grinnell College as both a student-athlete and a coach. A two-time All-American and four-time All-Midwest Conference selection, Pedersen was a key contributor to the 1998 football team that went 10-0 and captured the program’s first conference title in three decades. Known for his versatility, he set school records as both a tight end and quarterback and remains listed dozens of times in Grinnell’s football record book.

After graduation, Pedersen returned to Grinnell to lead the football program for a decade, earning Midwest Conference Coach of the Year honors in his first season. He currently serves as head coach of Grinnell’s track and field programs, where his teams have continued to rank among the conference’s best. In 2024, Pedersen was inducted into the Grinnell Athletics Hall of Fame in recognition of his exceptional contributions as both a player and coach.

Q: Where did you grow up, and what brought you to Grinnell?

A: I was born in Strawberry Point, Iowa, but I grew up in Kremmling, Colorado. Both of my parents are originally from Iowa (Mom in Story City, Dad in Perry), so we had a lot of ties here. We moved to Colorado when I was young and I came back to Iowa for college.

Q: Can you share a bit about your family and life outside of coaching?

A: I have a younger brother, Josh Pedersen ’04, who also came to Grinnell for college and was a member of the football and basketball teams. My wife, Jordan Esbrook ’01, and I have been married for 21 years. We have two daughters who are both in high school. I really enjoy watching their theater and music performances. We also like to spend time outside, taking walks with our beagle, Rocket, and — like many folks our age — we’ve become pretty enthusiastic “bird noticers.” I also try to get back to Colorado when I can to visit family and go hunting and fishing.

Q: What does your role at Grinnell look like day to day?

A: I enjoy being a head coach at Grinnell, as my job is actually many jobs in one: head coach, event coach, teacher, recruiter, academic advisor, event planner, travel agent, accountant, etc. There are no boring days as a Division III coach, there is always something to be working on, and no two days are the same.

Q: What have been some of your most meaningful moments as a coach?

A: There’s nothing quite like watching a student-athlete have a breakthrough after putting in countless hours of work. Seeing their joy and sense of accomplishment is really special. In terms of big moments, our upset win over Monmouth in my first year as head football coach stands out. I’ve also been lucky enough to take two athletes to the national meet, and both scored very well. Those were exciting moments. Hopefully my favorite moment will come yet this spring! Both men’s and women’s teams are working hard to bring home a conference championship. We’ll see!

Q: Looking back, what are some of your favorite Grinnell memories?

A: Too many to say! Athletically, I was part of a 10-0 championship team my first year here was very special. I also got to play football alongside my brother for two years, which was a great experience. Personally, when the women moved into the triple across the hall my freshman year. That’s when I first met Jordan; we’ve been married for 21 years now.