Milwaukee, Wis. – Mount Mary University Director of Athletics Natalie Batello has announced the hiring of Bobbie Kelsey as the University’s new Head Women’s Basketball Coach and Assistant Sports Information Director.
Kelsey brings more than 20 years of experience in collegiate coaching, professional basketball, athletics administration, and sports media to Mount Mary. Her distinguished career includes serving as head coach at the University of Wisconsin, assistant coach with the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, and most recently as Commissioner of Athletics and Academics for Milwaukee Public Schools, where she oversaw athletics and co-curricular programming for more than 150 schools.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Coach Bobbie Kelsey to the Blue Angel family,” said Director of Athletics Natalie Batello. “Throughout our extensive national search, Bobbie consistently stood out as a dynamic leader who possesses not only an elite basketball mind, but a profound commitment to the holistic development of student-athletes. She has a proven track record of building winning cultures rooted in integrity, grit, and academic excellence. We are confident that Coach Kelsey will elevate our basketball program to new heights and ignite a great sense of pride within our campus and community.”
In addition to her collegiate and professional coaching experience, Kelsey has also worked as a women’s basketball analyst for the Big Ten Network and FOX Sports. A Stanford University graduate with a master’s degree from Duquesne University, she has built her career around developing successful teams while preparing student-athletes for success beyond the court.
“The opportunity to coach again and specifically at Mount Mary is a welcomed one, as joining the Blue Angel family allows me to bring my wealth of experience as a seasoned coach to the program,” Kelsey said. “Having the chance to make history on the court as well as develop the young women off the court is an exciting prospect. I am extremely grateful to Dr. Cherney, Natalie Batello, and Cody Tesch for the vote of confidence to lead the program.”
Kelsey is eager to build a culture centered on hard work, belief, and reaching the program’s full potential.
“The Blue Angel program is primed to accomplish great things if everyone is willing to work hard and sacrifice the good for the great,” Kelsey said. “Having been a part of a National Championship and WNBA Finals appearance, my exposure to what it takes to reach our highest potential is vast. Our ultimate goal will be challenging yet achievable. Anything is possible to those who believe.”
As she begins her tenure, Kelsey also shared a message with the Mount Mary community.
“To the Mount Mary family, I look forward to joining the team, sharing my professional experience, personality, and work ethic as we embark on the next chapter of Blue Angel basketball,” Kelsey said. “We welcome the university family and surrounding community support at games this coming season. Let’s go!”