Carroll College Athletics

Butte Central product Tom Kelly was  a 3-year starter on three consecutive undefeated Conference football championships, from 1951-53. His coaches considered him one of the most versatile players to wear a Saints uniform, having played every offensive backfield position, while defensively patrolling the gridiron at linebacker, secondary and defensive end. The scrappy 160-pound Kelly was selected first team All-MCC defensive back in 1952, and second team his final season. He also played two years of basketball and baseball for the blue-and-gold.

At the time of his induction Tom was CC’s Athletic Director, serving in that position a combined total of 10 years. He coached every sport at Carroll, including football from 1962-70, and baseball and men’s track & field for two years apiece. Kelly skippered the men’s hoopsters to their first NAIA national tournament in 1966, and garnered District 5 Coach of the Year. After his HOF induction, he coached Lady Saints basketball from 1975-1992.