Head Coach Spotlight: Meet Cody Hommedahl, Head Coach for the East Side Engine

The East Side Engine are proud to announce Cody Hommedahl as the new Head Coach of the franchise, continuing the program’s forward momentum as the Developmental Football Association prepares for its Spring 2026 launch.

Coach Hommedahl steps into the role following Robert Smith’s departure to accept the Head Coach position at South Carolina Central Christian College. With a championship pedigree and nearly a decade of coaching experience across semi-pro and arena football, Hommedahl brings proven leadership, operational discipline, and a winning standard to one of the DFA’s founding teams.

Over the past nine years, Coach Hommedahl has built an extensive résumé in player development and defensive coaching, serving with the Minnesota Vipers, Twin Cities Sabercats, Med City Freeze, and Minneapolis Warriors. His experience spans defensive backs, special teams, and full program leadership at both the semi-pro and arena levels.

Most recently, Hommedahl built the St. Paul Bears Arena Football organization from the ground up, serving as General Manager and Head Coach. Under his leadership, the Bears posted an undefeated season, earned the nation’s top ranking, and captured a championship—establishing the program as a model for rapid, sustainable success. He will also serve as Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator for the Wyoming Cavalry in 2026.

Beyond the field, Coach Hommedahl is deeply invested in the business and media side of football. He is currently pursuing a degree in Sports Management with a minor in Business at Southern New Hampshire University and has served as a co-host for both the Minnesota Vikings Pregame Show and Vikings United. His approach reflects a modern, professional understanding of football as both a sport and an organization.

A former wide receiver and defensive back at Cannon Falls High School and Rochester Community & Technical College, Hommedahl brings a player-first mindset grounded in accountability, discipline, and long-term development.

“The primary responsibility of any coach is to teach, develop, and help players uncover their untapped potential—then push them to relentlessly pursue it. The journey matters, and I want my players to take pride in every step of it.” — Coach Cody Hommedahl

As Head Coach of the East Side Engine, Hommedahl will install a confident, disciplined culture built on preparation and execution. Every game will be approached with professional intent, every rep treated with purpose, and every player expected to meet a championship-level standard.

If you’re ready to be part of a program driven by accountability, momentum, and opportunity, the Engine is building something serious.

Player registration is now open at https://dfa.football/dfa-tc-1?am_id=codyhommedahl6511 

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