30 Facts About Brian Kelly

Early Life and Education

Brian Kelly's journey to becoming a top football coach started in Massachusetts. His early life and education laid the foundation for his future success.

1. Brian Keith Kelly was born on October 25, 1961, in Everett, Massachusetts.
2. He grew up in Chelsea, Massachusetts, in a Catholic Irish-American family.
3. Kelly attended St. John's Preparatory School in Danvers, Massachusetts.
4. He played linebacker at Assumption College and graduated with a bachelor's degree in political science in 1983.

Coaching Career Beginnings

Kelly's coaching career began humbly but quickly gained momentum. His early roles set the stage for his future achievements.

5. Kelly started as a graduate assistant and defensive backs coach at Grand Valley State University in 1987.
6. He became the defensive coordinator and recruiting coordinator at Grand Valley State in 1989.
7. In 1991, Kelly took over as the head coach at Grand Valley State.
8. He led the Lakers to two consecutive NCAA Division II Football Championships in 2002 and 2003.

Grand Valley State Achievements

Kelly's tenure at Grand Valley State was marked by remarkable success and record-breaking performances.

9. During his 13-year tenure, the Lakers won five conference titles.
10. Kelly's 2001 team set 77 NCAA, GLIAC, and school records, including the all-time Division II scoring record with an average of 58.4 points per game.
11. His overall record at Grand Valley State was 118-35-2.

Central Michigan University

Kelly's next stop was Central Michigan University, where he turned around a struggling program.

12. In 2004, Kelly became the 24th head coach at Central Michigan University.
13. He led the Chippewas to a 6-5 record in his second year, marking their first winning season in seven years.
14. In his third season, Central Michigan posted a 9-4 record and won the MAC Championship.

University of Cincinnati

Kelly's success continued at the University of Cincinnati, where he achieved significant milestones.

15. Kelly spent three seasons at the University of Cincinnati from 2007 to 2009.
16. The Bearcats achieved a 12-0 regular season in 2009, leading to a Sugar Bowl appearance.
17. He won the Big East Coach of the Year award in all three of his full seasons with the Bearcats.

University of Notre Dame

Kelly's tenure at Notre Dame solidified his reputation as one of college football's top coaches.

18. Kelly joined the University of Notre Dame in 2010 and spent 12 seasons as the head coach.
19. The Fighting Irish reached the College Football Playoff twice and played in the BCS National Championship Game in 2012.
20. Kelly's teams won 10+ games in five consecutive seasons, the longest such streak in Notre Dame's history.
21. He earned numerous accolades, including two AP National Coach of the Year awards (2012 and 2018).

LSU and Current Role

In 2022, Kelly took on a new challenge at LSU, where he has already made a significant impact.

22. Kelly left Notre Dame to become the head football coach at LSU in 2022.
23. He led the Tigers to a 10-win season in his first year.
24. Kelly's tenure at LSU has been marked by winning the SEC West division.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond football, Kelly has a rich personal life and diverse interests that shape his character.

25. Brian Kelly is married to Paqui Kelly, a breast cancer survivor who started the Kelly Cares Foundation.
26. Kelly has three children who often accompany him to games and events.
27. He has a keen eye for interior decorating and takes a "heavy hand" in designing his home.
28. Kelly enjoys a nice wine collection but has reduced his drinking over the years.
29. Given his late nights coaching, Kelly has developed a passion for grilling and cooking.
30. Before becoming a renowned football coach, Kelly coached softball at Assumption College.

Brian Kelly's Lasting Impact

Brian Kelly's journey from a graduate assistant to LSU's head coach is nothing short of impressive. His early days at Grand Valley State set the stage for his success, leading to significant achievements at Central Michigan and Cincinnati. At Notre Dame, Kelly's teams consistently performed at a high level, making multiple playoff appearances and earning him numerous accolades.

Now at LSU, Kelly continues to demonstrate his coaching prowess, transforming the Tigers into a formidable force in the SEC. Beyond football, his personal interests in interior decorating, wine, and culinary skills add depth to his character. His commitment to philanthropy and family further highlights his multifaceted personality.

Kelly's legacy is defined by his dedication, adaptability, and leadership. As he leads LSU to new heights, his impact on college football remains profound and lasting.