For 30 years, Coach Kelly Owens has been a familiar face at Cleveland Middle School, sharing her love of dance, encouraging young athletes, and building a program that has touched the lives of generations of students. On November 5, the school community came together to celebrate her remarkable career as she became the first woman inducted into the Cleveland Middle School Coaches Wall of Fame.
The special recognition took place during halftime of the girls' varsity basketball game against Ocoee, following a performance by the CMS Dance Team. Family members, friends, former colleagues, administrators, and generations of former dancers gathered to celebrate a woman whose dedication has helped shape the school's dance program for three decades.
Owens established the CMS Dance Program 30 years ago at the former middle school. Under her leadership, the program has grown into a nationally recognized team, earning five state championships, four international championships, and numerous regional titles. Her dancers have performed at events across the country, including the University of Tennessee, Auburn University, Lee University, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and a parade in New York City.
While the championships and performances are impressive, those who know Owens say her greatest impact has always been on the students she has coached, encouraged, and inspired along the way.
"Coach Owens represents everything we value in Cleveland City Schools," said Dr. Jeff Elliott, Director of Schools. "For 30 years, she has poured her heart into her students, teaching them so much more than dance. She has helped young people build confidence, develop discipline, and believe in themselves. The fact that so many former students returned to celebrate her speaks volumes about the difference she has made in their lives. What a champion for our young ladies in this City with Spirit! We are incredibly proud of Coach Owens, and this honor could not be more deserved."
That lasting impact was evident during a reception following the ceremony, where more than 100 supporters gathered to celebrate her. Among those in attendance were two dancers from Owens' very first team, returning three decades later to honor the coach who helped shape their early experiences.
"Kelly is one of the most dedicated teachers and coaches CMS has ever had. Her love of dance and her girls has shown through over the past 30 years," said Scott Carroll, Cleveland Middle School Athletic Director. "She is well deserving of this honor. Great teacher, coach and friend. Kelly is simply one of the very best."
Owens joins a distinguished group of former coaches recognized for their contributions to Cleveland Middle School athletics, including Donnie Yates, Mike Connolly, Jack Kidwell Jr., Ted Carson, and Scott Carroll.
For Cleveland Middle School, the evening was about much more than recognizing an accomplished coach. It was an opportunity to celebrate the relationships, memories, and lasting influence Owens has built throughout her career.
From the dancers who joined her very first team to those who proudly represent CMS today, Owens' legacy lives on through generations of young people who have learned from her dedication, encouragement, and passion for dance.
Cleveland City Schools proudly congratulates Coach Kelly Owens on this historic and well-deserved honor and extends its heartfelt appreciation for 30 years of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the students of Cleveland Middle School.