The 46-year-old was replaced temporarily by the team's running back coach. He is being held on suspicion of ”use of minors in a sexual performance” and possessing child pornography, according to the county sheriffs office.
Reports state that the sheriff’s office receive knowledge of his use of child pornography. His home was subsequently searched and items were seized.
Officials with the Mavericks’ Athletic Department and the university’s administrative offices have yet to address the accusation except to say that Hoffner was put on leave.
The Mankato Free Press is reporting that Hoffner was escorted from the practice field Friday.
Assistant Coach Aaron Keen has taken over the Division II team in Hoffner’s absence.
“The whole situation comes as a shock and is still a shock,” Keen said.
The players have now gone through two days of workouts without Hoffner, and “the guys have responded really well,” said Keen, who was the team’s offensive coordinator last season.
The players and coaches were scheduled to meet Tuesday night to “share information and to be there with them,” Keen added.
Todd Hoffner was entering his fifth year as the field general of the Mavericks, compiling a record of 34-13. Over the past four seasons, he has led Minnesota State to the playoffs (2008 and 2009), a Mineral Water Bowl Championship (2011), three Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference South Division Titles (2008, 2009 and 2011) and a share of the NSIC title (2011).
Hoffner is married and has three children.
Regardless of these whether or not these allegations are true or not, it slams another black eye on the coaching profession and the access they are given to kids and the young players they coach.
Completely sad in my book.
Photo Credit: Kare 11
Glenn Erby is a NFL writer for FootBasket. He also owns the NFL blog, Tha Cover 2. You can read more about him over there. Follow him on Twitter @thacover2.
