In 1937 Kelly moved to the University of Minnesota as the head track coach. Kelly's start at Minnesota was slow, but he eventually built a successful program; the Minnesota Golden Gophers won the NCAA team championship in 1948, the only time they have won the title.
Kelly's move to the University of Minnesota in 1937 set the stage for his development as a track coach. Initially, he faced challenges, but eventually, he created a winning culture; the Minnesota Golden Gophers achieved NCAA team championship success in 1948, a testament to their enduring legacy.