USF Athletics

A Letter To Bulls Nation from Michael Kelly

July 30, 2018

From the desk of USF Vice President of Athletics Michael Kelly
July 30, 2018
 

Dear Bulls Nation:
 
One week from today, I officially begin my service as your Vice President of Athletics and I cannot wait to get started!  The past few weeks since my appointment have been filled with the fun—and not so fun—parts of planning a family transition, saying goodbye to the great folks at the College Football Playoff, stealing a little vacation time with Lisa, Cara and Seana, and yes, diving into everything that is USF. 
 
Last week, I spent several days with our American Athletic Conference family in Rhode Island at the American Summer Kickoff/Media Days. It was great to watch Coach Strong, Ronnie Hoggins, Kirk Livingstone, Eric Mayes and Tyre McCants represent the Bulls in fine fashion.  Hard to believe but student-athletes in football, soccer, volleyball and cross-country report to campus this week for preseason training.
 
During July, I have had the opportunity to communicate with every one of our outstanding head coaches, learning about them, their programs, their challenges and their passion for USF.  I also have been able to speak with many tremendous staffers in our Department and I am beginning to get a real sense for our people and our future.  Finally, I have engaged with Bulls' fans, alumni and donors throughout the country, and their passion for—and commitment to—USF Athletics is evident (especially on Twitter—shameless plug—feel free to follow me @MKellyUSF and engage!).
 
There is work to be done in the weeks and months ahead and I am energized to return to the Tampa Bay Area and do my part in elevating our university under President Genshaft's leadership.  As I said at my introductory press conference, we will build tradition one champion at a time. Great things are in store for USF Athletics and I want you all to be a part of it.  I will continue to share our successes and our challenges with you, and please do not hesitate to reach out to USF Athletics if we can assist you in any way.
 
Enjoy the rest of your summer and Go Bulls! Bull Speed Ahead!
 
Sincerely,
 
Michael Kelly
Vice President of Athletics