Bismarck, ND – University of Mary head football coach Myron Schulz announced today the addition of John Kelling to the Marauders coaching staff as defensive coordinator. A veteran coach with 16 years of experience at the NCAA Division I FCS and Division II levels, Kelling arrives at U-Mary after serving as the co-defensive coordinator at the University of North Dakota the past six seasons.
“I've known John Kelling for a long time and he always impressed with his passion for football and his knowledge of the game,” said Schultz. “I'm excited to bring in such a talented and experienced coach and look forward to John joining the Marauders football staff.”
“I am very excited to join the University of Mary and need to thank Father James Shea,
Roger Thomas and Myron Schulz for allowing me the opportunity to become a part of this great university,” said Kelling. “I look forward to the upcoming challenge of taking this Marauders football team on its upcoming championship quest.”
Kelling joined the North Dakota staff in 2004 as the defensive backs coach. The Sioux would lead the North Central Conference in pass defense, allowing just 158.8 yards per game, and pass efficiency defense in his first season with the program.
UND elevated Kelling the co-defensive coordinator in 2006 and the Sioux promptly led the NCC in scoring defense. In 2007 UND paced the league in total defense. The defensive backfield would continue to thrive under his direction as the Sioux led the conference in pass efficiency defense three times in four seasons.
Under Kelling's direction UND continued to post strong numbers during its move to NCAA Division I FCS as the Sioux were second in the Great West Conference in scoring defense in 2008. By 2010 UND tied for the GWC lead in interceptions with 11 and also knocked down 27 passes.
Last season North Dakota earned a share of the Great West Conference title and finished the year ranked in both of the national polls.
Prior to joining North Dakota, Kelling coached eight seasons at Augustana (SD) College, where he served as a wide receivers coach and strength coach.
Over the course of his career, the players Kelling has coached have earned an impressive amount of accolades and achievements: one former NFL player, a current CFL player, two Harlon Hill finalists, six All-Americans and 14 first-team all-conference players, including two most valuable receivers and two most valuable defensive backs.
A native of Rochester, MN, Kelling earned his bachelor's degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato, in physical education. He was a four-year starter at free safety for the Mavericks, a two-time first team all-conference performer, the NCC's Most Valuable Defensive Back as a senior, and Football Gazette's Defensive Player of the Year in 1991. Kelling was inducted into Minnesota State's Athletic Hall of Fame in 2004.
Kelling and his wife Megan have two sons, Everett and Colt.
Kelling replaces former Marauders defensive coordinator Mike McMahon, who stepped down last week after accepting a position outside athletics on the U-Mary campus.
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