Dalton, GA—The Dalton Academy is thrilled to announce the launch of its inaugural wrestling program, marking the beginning of an exciting chapter for the school and its athletic community. The 2024-25 wrestling season will see the Pumas take to the mats for the first time, under the leadership of Head Coach Michael Keefe.
"We are proud to introduce wrestling to The Dalton Academy’s athletics lineup,” said Athletic Director Michael Bolen. “This is a monumental step for our students, and with Coach Keefe’s proven track record of success, we are confident that our student-athletes will thrive in this new endeavor."
Meet Head Coach Michael Keefe
Coach Keefe brings an impressive wealth of experience and accomplishments to The Dalton Academy’s wrestling program. His personal accolades, coupled with his coaching success, make him the ideal leader for the Pumas' debut season.
High School Career (Ringgold):
2-Time Georgia State Champion (2001, 2002)
Member of the 2002 State Dual and Traditional Championship Team
College Career (University of Tennessee at Chattanooga):
NCAA All-American (2005)
2-Time Southern Conference Champion
Holds the record for most wins in Southern Conference history
Inducted into the UTC Hall of Fame (2013)
Coaching Career:
Led Ringgold High School to the 2008 State Duals Championship
Coached Dalton High School to the 2009 Region Championship and a State Duals Runner-Up finish
Mentored 28 individual state medalists and 8 individual state champions
The Pumas’ wrestling program aims to build on this foundation of excellence by fostering discipline, teamwork, and personal growth among student-athletes. Coach Keefe’s extensive experience both on the mat and as a mentor will provide a winning formula as The Dalton Academy looks to make its mark in the sport.
2024-25 Wrestling Schedule:
November 22nd: Ringgold Invitational (Duals) at Ringgold High School, 5:00 PM
December 5th: Tri-Match vs. LFO and Coahulla Creek at Coahulla Creek High School
December 10th: LFO Duals at LFO
December 12th: Ringgold Dual at Ringgold High School
January 10th-11th: Region Duals
January 14th: LFO Duals at LFO
January 17th-18th: State Duals
January 24th: Coahulla Creek Tournament at North Whitfield Middle School
January 31st - February 1st: Traditional Region
February 7th-8th: Sectionals
February 13th-15th: State Tournament (Location and time TBD)
For more information on The Dalton Academy’s wrestling program, please contact The Dalton Academy’s Athletic Director, Michael Bolen, at 706.876.4700
###