Hall of Fame
A three-year starter on the gridiron, Kelly picked up numerous accolades during his career at Norwich. Affectionately known as "Shipwreck" by his teammates and coaches, Kelly was an offensive force over his Cadet career.
"My years at Norwich University are some of the most cherished memories of my life," says Kelly. "Playing football with the best people I have ever been associated with is a big reason for my happy memories."
In 1973 Kelly was named the team's offensive MVP as well as earning All-East and Eastern Conference Athletic Conference (ECAC) honorable mentions.
Kelly had an even better senior season in the fall of 1974, turning in a brilliant campaign where he was again named the team's offensive MVP as well as being named to the All-New England, All-East, and ECAC all-star teams.
"I will always remember the fervent speeches coach Joe Sabol gave before each game as well as the love and dedication he gave to the Norwich Football family. They say if you love what you do, you will never have to work for the rest of your life because it's so enjoyable. To me, Coach Mynter portrayed this throughout his coaching career and it became his legacy to the players."
Kelly maintained his passion for the sport following his playing days. He first served as an assistant coach at Norwich, before spending several years as the head coach at BFA-St. Albans in St. Albans, Vermont.
Kelly has spent 27 years in sales and management and currently works at J.F. Marketing, Inc.
Kelly and his wife Cecilia now reside in Vernon Rockville, Conn. They have two grown children: a son, Ryan, and a daughter, Rosalind. Kelly and his wife are the proud grandparents of a granddaughter, Hailey Rose.
In his free time, Kelly enjoys golfing and being with his family.
"I bet even today, my teammates would come if I needed help, as I would in return," says Kelly. "Thank God, I was blessed to be able to play football at Norwich University."
