Blaze Credit Union in Falcon Heights, Minn., said it is partnering with Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell, who will appear in Blaze advertising campaigns and work with the credit union on community-focused initiatives across the state.
"We chose to partner with O'Connell because of his character and reputation," Blaze President/CEO Dan Stoltz said. "He is a genuine person who knows what it takes to lead both on and off the field. He treats every individual with sincerity and respect which aligns with Blaze to the core."
O'Connell, who was named the 2024 Associated Press NFL Coach of the Year, is also an advocate in the fight against childhood cancer. For the past three consecutive seasons, he has worn custom-painted shoes for the NFL's My Cause My Cleats initiative to highlight nonprofits that support children battling cancer and fundraise for pediatric cancer research.
Stoltz said community involvement is an important factor when Blaze selects ambassadors.
"When we look for people to represent Blaze, a passion for kindness and helping others and our community absolutely must be part of the deal. Kevin is a true professional with a big heart," Stoltz said.
O'Connell has joined a team of Blaze ambassadors, including Minnesota Wild defenseman Brock Faber, former Minnesota Lynx coach Lindsay Whalen, Baseball Hall of Famer Tony Oliva, UFC fighter Gable Steveson, Olympic speed skater Greta Myers and Olympic runner and commentator Carrie Tollefson.
"I'm excited to partner with Blaze Credit Union, an organization that is truly invested in making a difference," O'Connell said. "Together, we have an opportunity to positively impact people's lives – not just through football, but by supporting their financial futures and community involvement."
Blaze Credit Union serves more than 256,000 members, has more than $4.8 billion in assets and operates 29 branch locations.
Joyce Moed can be reached at joyce.moed@arc-network.com.
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