By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
Officials announced today that Head Football Coach has submitted his resignation due to personal family reasons, marking another leadership change for the Eagles program.
In a statement released by the school, administrators expressed their respect for Kelley’s decision to prioritize his family and their appreciation for his leadership.
Kelley was hired just last month, following the resignation of former head coach Matt Mellown, whose departure created the most recent vacancy in the program. Mellown stepped down following a challenging stretch for the Eagles, who have not posted a winning season since 2018. Over the past two years, Carroll compiled a 3–17 record and missed the playoffs both seasons, including a one-win campaign last fall.
School leaders had turned to Kelley in hopes of stabilizing and rebuilding the program. Before arriving in Ozark, he compiled a 65–23 record over seven seasons at Cherokee County High School in Georgia, reaching the Class 4A playoffs six consecutive years, winning three straight region titles, and advancing to three state championship games from 2022 to 2024. He brought an overall head coaching record of 73–37 to Carroll, along with additional experience at Washington-Wilkes and other Georgia programs.
In previous comments to the Dale County Chronicle following his hiring, Kelley emphasized discipline, accountability, and year-round development as the foundation for turning the program around, beginning with a strong commitment in the weight room.
That offseason focus remains unchanged despite the latest transition.
“Our student-athletes are already back in the weight room,” the school’s statement noted. Offseason preparations and conditioning programs are continuing without interruption as players work toward the 2026 season.
Assistant Coach Mauldin will oversee daily football operations during the transition period. School officials said they have full confidence in his leadership and in the dedication of the Eagles’ coaching staff to maintain stability for student-athletes.
The search for Carroll’s next head football coach begins immediately. Administrators said they are committed to finding the right long-term fit for the players, the school, and the Ozark community.
The Dale County Chronicle has reached out to Carroll High School for additional information, and we will update the article once we receive a response.
Carroll football has long been built on hard work and resilience. With offseason workouts underway and another coaching search in motion, the Eagles again find themselves looking to the future while working to restore consistency and success on Friday nights.
