Vienna Vikings bring back special teams coordinator Marianne Pahkala

The Vienna Vikings have re-signed Marianne Pahkala to be their special teams coordinator and running backs coach. Pahkala also serves as the teams strength and conditioning coach working with the Vikings players to improve thier on field performance. 

The young Finnish coach has experience coaching for the University of Nebraska, Rice University, and the University of Georgia. Pahkala also has experiences in the NFL as she worked in the youth football departments of the Detroit Lions, Washington Commanders, and Kansas City Chiefs over the past years.

"I would like to thank the Vienna Vikings for their continuous support in my development as a coach and for the roles and responsibilities given to me again in 2025. I really can’t wait to compete with this team in the upcoming season."

She also has experience coaching in The Spring League a professional league in the United States, as well as serving as the strength and conditioning coach for the Finnish national team in 2023. 

“Consistency and Culture has been one of the biggest strengths of our franchise. Coach P has been an integral part our staff and has expanded her role in her third season with us as our Special Team Coordinator and our Strength Coach. Coach Pahkala and I are confident, and we have made the efforts to be in better, stronger, faster in 2025.” - Vikings head coach Chris Calaycay.

Pahkala first joined the Vikings in 2023 becoming the first female coordinator in franchise and league history. She is now going into her third season in the Austrian capital. Her work as running back coach has been evident as fellow Finn and star running back Karri Pajarinen had his best season in 2023 rushing for a career best 1,123 yards and 13 touchdowns. 

The 30-year old coach remains the league first and only female coordinator, as she looks to continue to grow her role in the Vikings organisation. 

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