Kevin and Blaze
Kevin joined Team Blaze in 2026 and has a passion for kindness and helping others and our community.
Kevin's Thoughts
“I’m excited to partner with Blaze Credit Union, an organization that is truly invested in making a difference. Together, we have an opportunity to positively impact people’s lives — not just through football, but by supporting their financial futures and community involvement.”
–Kevin O'Connell
Dan's Thoughts
“We chose to partner with O’Connell, because of his character and reputation. 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.”
–Dan Stoltz, Blaze CEO/President
Kevin O'Connell
At just 41 years old, Kevin O’Connell is a Carlsbad, Calif., native who has played in the NFL, dabbled in broadcasting, and transitioned to NFL Head Coach. Starting his professional career as an NFL quarterback, O’Connell was Patriots’ head coach Bill Belichick’s earliest quarterback selection in any NFL draft. Shortly into his first season playing for Belichick, O’Connell recognized his innate desire to coach. Since, O’Connell has gone on to be named the 2024 Associated Press Coach of the Year, and finish with the second-most season wins in Vikings franchise history.
O’Connell ensures that every individual he meets is treated with the same level of sincerity and respect. An incredibly genuine, optimistic individual who helps create a high energy and united team environment. He understands the characteristics of a coach that are critical to leading a team that wins at the highest level. Off the field, Kevin and Leah O’Connell are parents of four: two sons, Kaden and Kolten, and two daughters, Quinn and Callie. O’Connell is also a proud advocate for 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.
Welcome to Blaze Credit Union
From Waseca to Keewatin, St. Cloud to Rochester, the Minneapolis-St. Paul Metro, and communities in between, we've been bettering the lives of Minnesotans like you since 1934. We carefully reflect on how best to support you and your dreams.
We’re driven by Midwestern values — community, integrity, and plain old hard work. Wherever you're in the Twin Cities or beyond, consider Blaze as your local guide in your financial journey.
Let’s blaze your trail together.
