Valley City State University announced today that TJ Hokanson will take over as the head coach of the Vikings baseball program, succeeding Alec DeMaria who has taken a similar role at the University of Mary in Bismarck.
Hokanson comes to the position after four years as the hitting and infield coach at the University of Minnesota Crookston, where he helped guide the team to a second‑place finish in the Frontier Conference and a appearance in the championship game.
During his tenure at Minnesota Crookston he oversaw the development of multiple NCAA Division II All‑Americans and even produced players who later signed professional contracts, underscoring his reputation as a strong developer of talent.
Before moving into coaching he walked on at Minnesota Crookston after redshirting his freshman season, eventually becoming a key contributor on the field and later a standout at Chanhassen High School in Minnesota, where his team reached the Class 3A state championship game.
A New Direction for Vikings Baseball
The Vikings finished the regular season second in the Frontier Conference and advanced to the conference tournament championship game, a testament to the competitive culture Hokanson helped build as an assistant.
In a statement, university athletic director Dr. Jane Smith praised Hokanson’s blend of playing experience and coaching acumen, noting that his focus on player development aligns perfectly with the program’s long‑term goals.
Fans can look forward to a coaching philosophy that emphasizes fundamentals, mental toughness and continuous improvement, traits that have defined Hokanson’s career from his early days as a collegiate player to his recent successes on the sidelines.