On Saturday, the AHSTW named Jason Holst the Interim Head coach for the Vikings football team. Holst currently serves as the school athletic director and is no stranger to coaching. He served as the manager for the AHSTW baseball team for 16 years and was a part of the football staff as an assistant coach. Holst has compiled numerous accolades, including coaching the Iowa Baseball Coach’s Association All-Star Game in 2013. And like many tenured coaches, his love of what he does stems well beyond the parameters of a game.

Holst is also a homegrown product. Growing up in the area, he played his high school football with the AST and says he is extremely proud of the opportunity to lead the program.

Coaching styles are a dime-a-dozen from hard-nosed to fun-loving. Holst says he plans to bring a fun style to the AHSTW, all while maintaining a focus to accomplish what they need to.

AHSTW is already well entrenched in the fast-approaching postseason. However, Holst reiterated that it doesn’t mean the Vikings can’t continue to improve and be the best versions of themselves.

Despite having a playoff spot locked up, the game against Shenandoah still means something to the Vikings. AHSTW needs a win against the Mustangs in order to claim the district’s number two seed. Holst says his mindset is not on the playoffs but on getting better rep after rep in practice.

Kickoff on Friday in Avoca is at 7 pm.