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| Aaron Kelton's Ephs have delivered consistently for the past three seasons, but just at the rate of two wins per season. Williams athletics photo |
Aaron Kelton announced today that he is resigning as head football coach at Williams at the end of this month to pursue other opportunities.
In his six seasons at Williams, Kelton compiled a record of 23-25 (.479). In his first season the team went undefeated and won both the NESCAC and Little Three titles. He was the first Eph head football coach to debut with a perfect season. Williams has gone 15-25 in the five seasons since, culminating in a 2-6 mark each of the past three seasons.
Kelton came to Williams in 2010 from Columbia, where he had served as the Lions' defensive coordinator and, before that, as secondary coach. Kelton succeeded Mike Whalen as head coach of the Ephs, who served for six seasons before becoming the head coach of his alma mater, Wesleyan.
"I appreciate the opportunity to have led the Williams football program," Kelton said. "I took this job to make a profound difference in the lives of young men and continue the winning traditions of Williams football. While we were successful in the development of our players in many areas, I would have liked to have won more games for the players, their families, coaches, fans, and the Williams community. I take great memories of this experience at Williams with me."
Lisa Melendy, athletic director since 2011, noted the deep affection Kelton's players hold for him and said she was grateful for the contributions he'd made at Williams in his time here. "Aaron has been a really positive member of this community, and I appreciate his dedication to Williams and, in particular, to his players over these past six years," she said. "I respect his decision to pursue other opportunities, and I wish the best for him and his family."
A national search for the next head football coach will begin immediately and will be conducted by a faculty committee headed by Melendy. Until a new coach is in place, assistant coach Marshall Creighton will coordinate the football program, and he will continue to serve in his recruiting role for the team.
"Football has been important and successful at Williams for 130 years," said college president Adam Falk. "As Aaron followed in the footsteps of all those who've coached before him, I know our next head coach will carry on Williams' tradition of teamwork, dedication, and excellence."