Saint John's University

Darling is in his sixth season as an SJU defensive assistant coach in 2021. A 2004 SJU graduate, Darling played one year as a linebacker at Division II St. Cloud State before transferring to SJU for the 2001 season. He became a two-year starter on the Johnnies’ defensive line and was a member of the 2003 national championship team. Darling served as an assistant coach at his alma mater, Sartell-St. Stephen High School, for 11 seasons and is a fifth-grade teacher in the district. He and his wife, Annie, have four daughters and reside in Sartell.