Minnesota West Names Blake Tucker and Daniel Bernstrom Interim Head Coaches
Worthington, MN — Minnesota West Community & Technical College has announced the appointment of two interim head coaches for its men’s athletic programs, naming Blake Tucker as Interim Head Football Coach and Daniel Bernstrom as Interim Head Men's Soccer Coach.
Tucker to Lead Bluejay Football Program
Blake Tucker enters his first season as Interim Head Football Coach after serving the past two seasons as Minnesota West’s Offensive Coordinator and Running Backs Coach. During his tenure, Tucker led one of the most explosive offenses in the country, guiding the Bluejays to back-to-back No. 1 national rankings in NJCAA Division III offense.
Tucker brings six years of coaching experience and a strong offensive background to his new role, providing continuity and momentum for the program.
“Blake has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a clear vision for our football program,” said Minnesota West Dean of Student Development Abdull Farah Abdigaani. “The success he has produced offensively speaks for itself, and we are confident in his ability to build on that foundation while continuing to develop our student-athletes both on and off the field.”
A former collegiate player, Tucker began his career at Monmouth College (Ill.) before finishing at Belhaven University (Miss.), where he played four seasons. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Sports Administration with a concentration in Business and Marketing from Belhaven in 2019.
As he takes over the Bluejays football program, Tucker is focused on continuing its success while emphasizing the development of student-athletes both on and off the field.
Bernstrom Named Interim Head Men's Soccer Coach
Daniel Bernstrom, a Minnesota West English instructor and established children’s book author, has been named Interim Head Men's Soccer Coach. Bernstrom has been a key member of the Bluejays’ coaching staff since the program’s early years and now steps into a leadership role.
Minnesota West men’s soccer was established as a sanctioned sport in 2021 under head coach Jordan Balster. The program has seen steady growth, highlighted by a successful 2025 season that included an MCAC title, a 5-6-2 overall record, a 3-1-2 conference mark, and a No. 1 seed in the Region 13 Tournament.
A former high school soccer player in Iowa, Bernstrom has played a vital role in the program’s day-to-day operations and student-athlete support. Known for his ability to connect with players, he provides guidance both academically and personally, helping meet needs ranging from coursework to everyday challenges.
“Dan has been an invaluable part of our soccer program since its inception,” said Interim Athletic Director Bob Purcell. “His ability to connect with students and manage the many day-to-day responsibilities of the program makes him a natural fit to step into this role.”
Dean of Student Development Abdull Farah Abdigaani emphasized Bernstrom’s impact beyond athletics.
“Dan embodies what it means to support the whole student,” said the Dean. “Whether in the classroom or on the field, he is deeply committed to helping students succeed, and that makes him an outstanding leader for our soccer program.”
With Tucker and Bernstrom stepping into interim leadership roles, Minnesota West Athletics remains committed to building competitive programs while supporting student-athletes’ success in the classroom, in competition, and in their communities.
“Both Blake and Dan represent the values of Minnesota West Athletics,” added Daniel de Moraes, Interim VP of Academic Affairs. “They lead with integrity, care deeply about our students, and are committed to excellence. We’re excited about the future of both programs under their leadership.”