Kelly was a 2-time 1,000-yard rusher for an Odell team that advanced to the State Semi-Finals in 1981, and went on to an undefeated season in 1982- where they were crowned Class D-2 State Champions. He was always at his best in the Tigers’ biggest games, setting multiple state playoff records (at the time) including: touchdowns in a game (6); Interceptions in a game (5); and longest kickoff return for a TD (79 yards). As a highly-decorated prep athlete, Kelly was recognized as the state’s all-class leading rusher (1,971 yards) and Offensive Player of the Year as a senior, while also being named a 3-time All-Conference and 2-time All-State player during his career. After High school, Kelly was selected to play in the 1983 Eight Man All-Star Game (a family connection with brothers Kurt and Kolin). Following graduation, he walked-on to the University of Nebraska where Kelly played defensive back for the Cornhuskers from 1983 to 1985. His fondest football memory is going wire-to-wire in 1982 with his teammates and coaches as the #1 ranked team in the state. The NEMFCA is honored to welcome him into the Eight-Man Hall of Fame Class of 2025.