The Minnesota Monsters have named Daron Clark head coach for their first season in the Arena Football One (AF1) league.
Clark brings extensive playing and coaching experience to the role, having competed in the Indoor Football League (IFL), AF1 and the Canadian Football League (CFL). He has also served as an assistant coach in The Arena League (TAL) and the National Arena League (NAL).
“Coming into a new league as a new team will always come with challenges,” Clark said. “I’m fully prepared for the 2026 AF1 season and looking forward to proving my worth, talent and skill as a head coach.”
Team owner Jake Lambert said Clark’s hiring sets a strong tone for the franchise’s debut.
“We are excited that Coach Clark will be stepping into this role,” Lambert said. “He is an exemplary coach, and we can’t wait to see how he evolves the Monsters.”
The Monsters will make their AF1 debut at DECC Arena in spring 2026.
The Minnesota Monsters are co-owned by Lambert and CEO Steve Walters.