Michael Kelly leaving USF to become AD at Navy

TAMPA, Fla. — University of South Florida Athletic Director Michael Kelly is leaving the school to take the same position at Navy.

Kelly, 54, is leaving the Bulls after extensive work into the school’s pursuit of an on-campus football stadium. Ground was broken on the $400-plus million facility last fall. The stadium is expected to open for the 2027 season.

During his tenure at USF, Kelly helped double the department’s athletic budget, as well as hire football coach Alex Golesh, who has led the Bulls to two straight bowl-winning seasons. Kelly also hired Amir Abdur-Rahim, who passed away after leading USF to its first regular season conference championship in 2024. 

Overall during his tenure, the Bulls captured 21 American Athletic Conference team championships, including firsts in men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, and men’s track and field. USF Athletics programs also achieved two divisional titles, two NCAA championships, eight cheer national championships and one cheer world cup, while more than two dozen student-athletes were named All-Americans. USF Athletics also earned more than 30 NCAA postseason berths during his tenure.

“This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity came along at a time that feels right for me and my family,” said Kelly. “This decision isn’t about leaving South Florida—it’s about the chance to serve a place that’s long been meaningful to me. I’m deeply proud of what we’ve built together here and incredibly grateful for the relationships, achievements, and momentum that will continue to carry USF forward. I am confident that with this team—and in alignment with the university—even better days lie ahead for the Bulls.”

Kelly will replace Chet Gladchuk, who is retiring after 24 years at Navy.

“MK has forever changed our campus and our community for the better, and I am proud to call him my friend and to have worked with him to move USF Athletics forward,” said USF Foundation CEO Jay Stroman, who has co-chaired the stadium project planning committee with Kelly. “Bulls Nation is stronger thanks to his efforts, and we wish him and the Kelly family nothing but the best in Annapolis.”