Coach on the Course: Kevin O’Connell Takes a Swing at Celebrity Golf Glory
In a surprising but welcome change of scenery, Minnesota Vikings head coach **Kevin O’Connell** traded in his headset for a golf club this weekend as he stepped into the spotlight at the annual **Celebrity Golf Showdown**, held at Pebble Beach Golf Links. Known for his sharp play-calling on the sidelines, O’Connell brought that same strategic energy to the fairway—this time with a smile, a driver, and a few well-placed jokes.
The event, which gathers stars from the NFL, Hollywood, and the music world, is a major charity fundraiser benefitting children’s hospitals across the country. It was O’Connell’s first appearance at the tournament, and he quickly became a crowd favorite—not just for his swing, but for his laid-back charisma and camaraderie with fellow participants.
I might be more comfortable calling a fourth-down play than sinking a 12-foot putt,”** O’Connell quipped during a break between holes, **“but I’m here for the fun, the cause, and maybe a few mulligans.
On the Green with the Gridiron Greats
The Celebrity Golf Showdown featured an impressive lineup, including NFL legends like Peyton Manning, Patrick Mahomes, and Larry Fitzgerald, alongside actors like Mark Wahlberg and musicians such as Darius Rucker. O’Connell was paired with professional golfer Michelle Wie West and actor Chris Pratt, making for a dynamic and entertaining trio.
Though his swing might not match his coaching precision, O’Connell held his own on the course. His competitive spirit came through, especially during the back nine, where he sunk a surprising 25-foot birdie putt to loud cheers from the gallery.
We know Kevin’s a smart coach,”** said Pratt, laughing, **“but he’s also a sneaky-good golfer. I’m just trying not to slow him down.
Beyond the Game: A Coach with a Cause
While the golf may have been lighthearted, the mission behind the event was close to O’Connell’s heart. A father of four, he’s long been an advocate for pediatric health initiatives and used his platform during the tournament to highlight the importance of supporting children’s medical research and care.
It’s easy to get caught up in the game—whether it’s football or golf,”** he said during a post-match interview. **“But at the end of the day, helping kids get the care they need, raising money for these hospitals—that’s the real win.”**
O’Connell helped raise over **$250,000** as part of his team’s contribution to the event, and even offered up a Vikings VIP game-day experience as an auction item, which went for a record-breaking $40,000.
Fans in the Fairway
The crowd lining the fairways featured a mix of die-hard Vikings fans and curious spectators eager to see celebrities in a different element. Chants of “SKOL!” echoed through the course when O’Connell stepped up to tee off on the final hole. He took it in stride, smiling and waving, clearly relishing the opportunity to connect with fans outside the stadium.
Social media was abuzz with clips of O’Connell’s smooth swing and even smoother jokes, with fans praising his down-to-earth attitude and natural showmanship.
One tweet read: *“Kevin O’Connell just became my favorite NFL coach. Golf game? Solid. Vibes? Immaculate.”*
Back to Business—But with a New Fanbase
While O’Connell will soon return to the business of building a playoff-bound team, his time on the course showcased a different side of the coach—competitive yet relaxed, funny, and fully engaged with the world beyond football.
As he wrapped up the weekend, O’Connell had one final thought for reporters:
I came out here for charity and left with a sand wedge and sore legs. But more than that—I left inspired.
