ADRIAN, Mich. -- Adrian College Athletic Director, Craig Rainey, announced the hiring of Kelly Gahn as the new head coach of the NCSA Division I softball program.
Gahn brings more than 14 years of coaching experience at the collegiate, high school, and travel softball levels. Throughout his coaching career, he has built a reputation for developing student-athletes both on and off the field while fostering a positive, team-first culture.
Most recently, Gahn spent two seasons at Jackson College, serving as an assistant softball coach during the 2024-25 season before taking over as head coach for the 2025-26 campaign. Prior to his collegiate coaching experience, he spent 13 seasons with Addison Community Schools, where he held multiple coaching positions, including junior varsity assistant coach, junior varsity head coach, varsity assistant coach, and varsity co-head coach. During his tenure, he also served as a district and regional representative for the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) softball tournament in 2022 and 2023.
In addition to his high school coaching experience, Gahn coached travel softball organizations including Compuware, Finesse, Lookouts, and NWO Heat, helping players continue their development at a competitive level.
Known for emphasizing "Positive Player Relationships," Gahn believes in supporting student-athletes academically, athletically, and personally. His coaching philosophy focuses on building meaningful relationships while helping players become the best versions of themselves both on the field and in the classroom. He also brings extensive experience in all aspects of player development, including hitting, pitching, fielding, and individualized instruction tailored to each athlete's strengths and needs.
Beyond coaching, Gahn has successfully owned and operated his own construction and carpentry business, called KLG Builders, leading him to being able to work and lead in a team environment under adverse conditions and be successful.
Gahn has earned numerous coaching honors throughout his career, including back-to-back District Coach of the Year awards in 2022 and 2023, along with Lenawee County Softball Coach of the Year honors in 2023. He is a USA Softball CAP Level Three certified coach, CPR and AED certified, and has been an active MHSAA Coaches Association member for 12 seasons while regularly attending state coaching clinics and the NFCA clinic.
Gahn resides in Cement City, Michigan, and looks forward to leading the Bulldogs into the next chapter of the program in the fall season.
