Al Ulbrickson was the son of Alvin Ulbrickson, Sr., a legendary rowing coach at the University of Washington. Junior also attended the University of Washington, graduating in 1952 with a degree in physical education. He then served two years in the Army but returned to the University where he later became assistant dean of men and then vice-president of student affairs. After retiring from the University, Ulbrickson served as the executive director of the South Snohomish County Chamber of Commerce. He and his father were both inducted into the University of Washington Athletic Hall of Fame. Alvin Junior was a big supporter of the Green Lake Crew who dedicated a rowing shell to him shortly before his death.