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Josh Kelly

Last updated on March 21, 2025 at 10:07 am

Posted on March 21, 2025 at 09:52 am

Personal information

Full name

Joshua Kelly

Date of birth

12 February 1995 (age 30)

Original team(s)

Sandringham Dragons (TAC Cup)/Brighton Grammar

Draft

No. 2, 2013 national draft

Height

184 cm (6 ft 0 in)

Weight

83 kg (183 lb)

Position(s)

Midfielder

Club information

Current club

Greater Western Sydney

Number

22

Playing career

Years

Club

Games (Goals)

2014–

Greater Western Sydney

215 (139)

Representative team honours

Years

Team

Games (Goals)

2020

Victoria

1 (4)

Career highlights

When you think about standout AFL players, Josh Kelly's journey often comes to mind. His early life in Melbourne shaped not just his skills but also his character, influencing his approach to the game. As you explore his career, you'll see how he transformed challenges into opportunities, becoming a pivotal figure on and off the field. His playing style and statistics paint a vivid picture of his contributions, but there's more to his legacy than just numbers. What truly sets Kelly apart in a competitive league?

Early Life and Background

Josh Kelly, a talented Australian rules footballer, plays for Greater Western Sydney Giants, was born on January 12, 1994, in the vibrant city of Melbourne. Growing up in a close-knit family, you can see how family influences shaped his character and drive. His parents encouraged him to explore various childhood sports, providing him with a strong foundation in athletics. From a young age, you'll notice how much he admired local football heroes, which fueled his passion and determination to excel in the sport.

His education background played a significant role in his development, as he balanced academics with sports, learning the importance of discipline and hard work. During school, he participated in community involvement initiatives, connecting with local teams and mentoring younger players. These experiences not only enriched his understanding of teamwork but also deepened his love for the game.

Early inspirations, like watching AFL matches and meeting professional players, ignited his ambition to pursue a career in football. This passion, coupled with the unwavering support of his family, laid the groundwork for his future success. You can see how these influences helped shape Josh Kelly into the player he is today.

Career Overview

After laying a solid foundation in his early life, Kelly's football career took off when he was drafted into the AFL. You witnessed his journey filled with significant career milestones, showcasing his immense talent and determination. As a player, Kelly demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities, earning the respect of teammates and fans alike.

Throughout his career, he faced injury challenges that tested his resilience. However, he never let those setbacks define him. Instead, you saw him rise above, contributing to his team's success with unwavering dedication. His on-field efforts were matched by his commitment off the field, where he engaged in various community initiatives.

Here are some highlights that evoke the spirit of his journey:

  • Overcoming adversity to achieve remarkable success
  • Inspiring young athletes through mentorship and involvement
  • Making significant contributions to the team's culture

In every game, Kelly's dedication and passion shine through, making him a vital part of his team's fabric. As you reflect on his career, it's clear that Josh Kelly's impact extends far beyond the field, leaving a legacy that inspires both current and future generations.

Playing Style and Skills

With an impressive blend of agility and tactical awareness, Josh Kelly's playing style sets him apart on the field. You'll notice his exceptional ball handling, allowing him to navigate through tight spaces with ease. Kelly's quick thinking and sharp decision-making mean he consistently makes the right choices under pressure, whether it's spotting a teammate or taking on a defender.

His foot skills are another standout feature. With pinpoint accuracy, he delivers passes that often leave opponents scrambling. You can see how his ability to kick both long and short distances keeps the game flowing and creates opportunities for scoring.

Defensive pressure doesn't faze him; in fact, he thrives in it. When the opposition tries to close him down, Kelly remains composed and finds ways to evade tackles or slip through crowded areas. This resilience reflects his leadership qualities, which inspire his teammates. On the field, your attention is drawn to how he orchestrates plays, rallying his fellow players and setting a standard for excellence. All these attributes combine to make Josh Kelly not just a player, but a pivotal force in any game he participates in.

Statistics

Kelly's impressive skills on the field are reflected in his statistics, which highlight his contributions to the game. His performance metrics demonstrate not only his ability to score and assist but also his resilience in overcoming injury history. Despite the setbacks, Kelly has consistently put up remarkable season averages that underline his dedication and talent.

Stat

2024 Season Average

Career Average

Standout Season Performance

Standout Career Performance

Career Total

Disposals

24.3

24.7

36 against Collingwood (Opening Round)

43 against West Coast Eagles (Round 22, 2017)

5370

Kicks

13

13.1

11 against Melbourne (Round 1)

29 against Carlton (Round 20, 2018)

2853

Goals

0.9

0.2

-

0.8 against Richmond (Round 3, 2018)

139

Marks

4.2

3.6

7 against Collingwood (Opening Round)

12 against Western Bulldogs (Round 22, 2022)

786

Tackles

3.6

4.7

10 against Melbourne (Round 1)

15 against Collingwood (Round 2, 2018)

1015

Clearances

3.1

3.5

5 against Collingwood (Opening Round)

10 against Carlton (Round 20, 2018)

752

Handballs

11.3

11.6

25 against Collingwood (Opening Round)

25 against Collingwood (Opening Round, 2025)

2517

Legacy and Impact

Josh Kelly's legacy in the AFL goes beyond his impressive statistics; it's about the impact he's had on his team and the sport as a whole. You can't overlook his leadership qualities, which shine both on and off the field. As a captain, he inspires teammates to push their limits, fostering a culture of excellence within the club.

His community involvement is equally remarkable. You see him regularly engaging with fans through various off-field initiatives, showcasing his commitment to building a strong connection with supporters. Whether it's visiting schools or participating in charity events, Josh understands the importance of giving back. In his mentorship role, he takes younger players under his wing, providing guidance and support to help them grow. This dedication not only elevates their game but also strengthens the team's overall performance.

Fan engagement remains a priority for Josh, as he recognizes that the game thrives on the support of its followers. By being accessible and relatable, he enhances the overall AFL experience for fans. Ultimately, Josh Kelly's legacy is defined by his holistic approach to the game, leaving a lasting impact on both his team and the wider community.

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