Staff

Staff

Brett Funke

Brett Funke

President
712-790-6140
Erv Strohbeen

Erv Strohbeen

Head Coach / Director of Football Ops
712-251-6912
Marlon Lobban

Marlon Lobban

Dir. of Recruiting / D-Coordinator
925-597-2853

Marlon Lobban has built his football career around the Sioux City Bandits organization, first as a standout player and now as one of the most important leaders within the team’s football operations.

Marlon Lobban has built his football career around the Sioux City Bandits organization, first as a standout player and now as one of the most important leaders within the team’s football operations.

Lobban originally earned his opportunity with the Bandits through an open tryout and quickly developed into one of the premier defensive players in indoor football. A linebacker for the Bandits from 2011 through 2017, he became known for his instincts, physical style of play, and understanding of the game. His success on the field earned him Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2016 and helped establish him as one of the most respected players of his era.

Following his playing career, Lobban made a seamless transition to the coaching staff. Recognizing his knowledge of the game and natural ability to lead, the Bandits entrusted him with the responsibility of Defensive Coordinator. Rather than working his way through multiple assistant positions, Lobban stepped directly into coordinating the defense—a role he has held for nearly a decade.

As Defensive Coordinator, Lobban has helped develop a defensive identity built around competitiveness, preparation, and creating disruption. His defenses have consistently emphasized forcing turnovers and giving the offense opportunities to capitalize. During the 2026 season, the Bandits defense was recognized for its disruptive play and ability to create turnovers throughout the season. His leadership and contributions were also recognized when he was named the 2025 National Arena League Assistant Coach of the Year.

In addition to his responsibilities on the field, Lobban has become an important part of the Bandits’ player personnel efforts. His experience as a former player who earned his own opportunity through an open tryout gives him a unique perspective when evaluating talent and identifying potential. He has developed a strong reputation for recruiting and helping uncover players who fit the Bandits culture and have the ability to succeed at the professional indoor football level.

For the 2027 season, Lobban will take on an expanded role as the Sioux City Bandits’ Director of Recruiting while continuing to serve as Defensive Coordinator. In these positions, he will oversee recruiting efforts, player evaluation, and the continued development of the Bandits defensive unit.

Lobban's connection to the Bandits goes beyond football. He has developed a close relationship with the organization, his fellow coaches, players, and the Siouxland community throughout his years with the team. His journey from open tryout participant to standout player and longtime coach represents the opportunities the Bandits organization strives to provide.

Away from football, Marlon is married to his wife, Jaime, and together they have four children: their son, Josiah, and three daughters, Naomi, Eden, and Delilah.

As the Bandits enter a new chapter in 2027, Lobban will continue to play a major role in shaping the future of the football operation. With his experience as a player, nearly a decade of leadership as a coordinator, and an eye for identifying and developing talent, he brings valuable experience and continuity to the organization.

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