Sep 2, 2026
United States Naval Academy Athletic Director Mike Kelly joins us for a conversation about Navy’s 36 varsity sports, one of the most successful years in Navy Athletics history, and what makes competing at a service academy different in today’s rapidly changing college sports landscape. Kelly talks about Navy football’s 11-win season, winning the Star Series and Patriot League Presidents’ Cup, and Navy’s strong national finish in the Learfield Directors’ Cup.
Winning matters. Winning with integrity matters even more here at the Naval Academy.
— Mike Kelly, USNA Athletic Director
We also get into NIL and the transfer portal — and why Kelly believes Navy’s different approach may actually be an advantage — along with improvements at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, the financial realities of operating 36 Division I programs, and some of the Navy sports that fans may be overlooking. And yes, we find out whether the former high school basketball player can still knock down a three-pointer.
Looking ahead, Kelly talks about his goals for Navy Athletics, including another Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, an American Athletic Conference championship and, ultimately, getting Navy into the College Football Playoff.
Want to see the Midshipmen in action? Tickets for Navy Athletics are available at NavySports.com
Have a listen.
LINKS:
- Navy Athletics (Website)
- Navy Athletics (Tickets)
- Navy Athletics (Facebook)
- Navy Athletics (X)
- Navy Athletics (YouTube)
- Navy Athletics (Instagram)