After four seasons as head coach of the Savannah State football team, Aaron Kelton has officially announced his decision to resign from his role effective immediately.
“I would like to thank the players, coaches, alumni, and Savannah Community for the support they have given over the last four years,” said Kelton in an official statement following his resignation. “It was an honor to lead the football program and though we didn’t meet the expectations with our record, we have created a foundation that will help lead the players to a successful life after football. I take with me many great memories and relationships. Go Tigers!”
Kelton was hired as head coach of Savannah in April 2022 when previous head coach Shawn Quinn accepted a role as the Outside Linebacker coach at Virginia Tech, a role he still holds to this day.
In his four seasons at Savannah State, Kelton compiled a 16-24 overall record, including an 11-20 record against SIAC competition.
Before taking on the role of head coach at SSU, the Boston native served in roles on HBCU coaching staffs such as Virginia State, Morgan State, and Howard.
His first head coaching job was with Division III program Williams College, becoming the first black head coach in the school’s history.
In his first of six seasons with the team in 2010, he led them to a perfect 8-0 record, making him the first coach in school history to do so in his first season.
Kelton then served two seasons as head coach at Shorter College before embarking on a role as co-Defensive Coordinator at Morgan State.
“We thank Coach Kelton for leading the Savannah State University football program for the last four seasons, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” said Savannah State Athletic Director Opio Mashariki.
