Vikings Coach of the Week
After each week of games during the high school football season, the Vikings honor a high school coach of the week. Coaches are chosen based on their contribution on the football field, but more importantly, on the impact they make within their community and for their student-athletes. In addition to being recognized in local media for the achievement, the school's football program receives a $1,000 donation on behalf of the Minnesota Vikings.
2025 Coach of the Week
Week 2: Ray Betton - Shakopee High School
Coach Betton is a Dynamic and results-driven head coach with 20 years of experience revitalizing struggling football programs into state contenders. Proven track record of turning around three long-standing losing programs (Simley, Academy of Holy Angels, and Shakopee) by cultivating a championship culture rooted in discipline, development, and leadership.
Passionate about empowering student-athletes both on and off the field, fostering academic success, character growth, and lifelong skills for success. Committed to building inclusive, trusting environments that inspire students to reach their full potential while strengthening school and community connections.
Week 1: Joe McPherson - Orono High School
Joe McPherson enters his seventh season as Orono's Head Football Coach in 2025. He has been coaching in the Orono district for the past 15 years, contributing to both the wrestling and football programs. Coach McPherson's purpose is to develop and motivate student-athletes to achieve their athletic and life goals through hard work, commitment, integrity, and follow-through. He prioritizes the development of students above all else. While highly competitive, his philosophy does not center on winning at all costs. Instead, he emphasizes living and coaching with integrity to show athletes that success can be achieved the right way. Each season, Coach McPherson communicates his expectations and philosophy to students and parents. He meets with athletes individually to set personal goals, checks in throughout the year on their progress, and maintains regular communication with families to ensure alignment and support.