HISTORY was created for the New Norfolk District Football Club last Saturday, May 7, when father and son Josh and Zayden Kelly ran out for the Eagle seniors against the Dodges Ferry Sharks at Shark Park. In our recorded history, this is the first time this has occurred at Senior level for the club.
This historic event occurred due to COVID-19 and injuries to the senior ranks. Josh, who has been runner for the seniors this season, was happy to step up to help the club out of a difficult situation. The 41-year-old on-baller is a life member of the club and has now played 278 games (60 senior and 218 reserve) in a career that started in 1998.
Over his career with the club, Josh has played in seven grand finals for six premierships. He made his senior debut in 1999 and coached the 2005 Reserves to a premiership. He also coached the 2010 Under 19s to a premiership as well as playing in the 2010 senior grand final. Josh played in the reserves premierships of 2012, 13, and 14.
The other half of this dynamic duo is his son Zayden, 19, who is just starting his football career. Zayden is in his first season with the New Norfolk District Football Club and is showing tremendous promise at centre-half-back. He has played all senior games this season for a total of six.
Zayden is destined for a great career with the Eagles, and we look forward to seeing him playing in the Red, White, and Black for many more years to come. We hope he has as much success and enjoyment with the club as his father. Congratulations Josh and Zayden on this outstanding achievement, we look forward to more appearance from both of you.
Chris Lovell
NNDFC Vice President – Football Operations