SAN FRANCISCO – In a highly anticipated move, the Bay Area Panthers have announced the return of seven-time football champion, Rob Keefe, as Head Coach and President of Football Operations for the second consecutive year.
Keefe re-signs to the football franchise that he led to become a formidable force with the best shared season record (13-3) in 2024, and that secured the 2023 Indoor Football League National Championship under his guidance.
Keefe's two-year tenure with the Panthers has been characterized by his innovative approach to the game, and his ability to galvanize players.
"Our goal is to win a championship every year," said Keefe. "We will ensure our standards and expectations are echoed throughout our organization and in the community."
A winning mentality is what Keefe is known for - a standout characteristic that has transformed more than performance on the field, but the organization and the community it calls home.
"I am grateful for this contract extension and thankful for (Owner) Roy Choi's support during my time in the Bay Area," said Keefe. "I am committed to growing the Bay Area Panthers brand and providing our fans with memorable experiences both on and off the field."
"Not only does Coach Keefe love Panther football, but he also loves Morgan Hill and the Bay Area community. We're really building something special here," said Panthers' owner Roy Choi.
Under Keefe, the Panthers continue to build a reputation for player development. Three Bay Area players earned All-IFL honors: Antwon Kincade (First Team), Kyle Davis (First Team), and Joe Foucha (Second Team). In addition, two were named to the All-Rookie Team: Joe Foucha and Tyler Watson.
With accolades spanning 20 years as both a player and a coach, Keefe was the youngest professional head coach to ever win a professional football championship at 29-years-old - a title he still holds to this day.
His seven championship victories include two in the Indoor Football League, three in the AFL and two in the AF2; and, Keefe is the only person in arena football history to win ArenaCup (AF2) and ArenaBowl (AFL) titles as both a player and a coach.
To reserve your season tickets for the 2025 season, send an email to tickets@bayareapanthers.com.
