Chippewa Valley Times

Carl Lundgren, a senior from Auburndale, Wisconsin, has been named UW-Eau Claire Athletics' Blugold of the Week, presented by BSN Sports/Nike. Lundgren is pursuing a major in Materials Science with emphases in Math and Physics.

Lundgren chose UW-Eau Claire because it offered him the opportunity to pursue his academic and athletic interests without compromise. "I chose Eau Claire because it had everything I wanted, so I didn't have to give up anything," he explained.

Beyond athletics, Lundgren is actively involved on campus. He serves as president of campus ambassadors and co-leads a Bible study through InterVarsity. Additionally, he participates in research and mentors the honors Blugold Fellowship class.

Balancing his responsibilities as a student-athlete requires careful organization. "I use my calendar for EVERYTHING," Lundgren noted. He acknowledges that being a student-athlete involves making sacrifices.

Reflecting on his athletic career at UW-Eau Claire, Lundgren shared that his proudest individual achievement was winning the City Wells 5k. However, he values team accomplishments highly: "My proudest moment with the team is winning the indoor and outdoor track national championships my freshman year."

When it comes to snacks after competitions, Lundgren prefers a bagel with peanut butter for its taste and nutritional value.

Outside of sports and academics, Lundgren enjoys cooking and baking unique recipes. His dream job is to work as a mechanical engineer for the Air Force.

If given the chance to travel anywhere, Lundgren would choose Sweden due to his family's heritage and his desire to witness the Northern Lights.

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone stands out as an athlete he'd like to spend time with due to her faith on the global stage.

For current or incoming Blugold student-athletes, Lundgren advises taking breaks amidst busy schedules: "It's easy to get overwhelmed...but make sure to spend some time with friends doing something you enjoy."

Dan Schwamberger, Head Men's Cross Country Coach at UW-Eau Claire, praised Lundgren's dedication: "Carl is a person who speaks up when needed but primarily shows his dedication...through his actions." Joey Thaler from Men's Cross Country added that Carl's drive makes him an exemplary leader: "He is driven to make the team better whether it be through his performances or the example he sets each day."

Follow updates on Blugolds throughout their season at Blugolds.com or via their app.