Kelly, Jimmy

Jimmy Kelly

Clubs played for: Manchester United, Chicago Sting , Los Angeles Aztecs, Tulsa Roughnecks (indoor), Tulsa Roughnecks, Toronto Blizzard, Toronto Blizzard (indoor), Los Angeles Lazers (1974-1983)

Born: 1957

Birthplace: Carlisle, Cumbria

Position: Midfielder

Biography: Came through the ranks and made his only League appearance as a sub against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Old Trafford in December 1975. But it wasn't until he left United and moved across the Atlantic that his career really took off playing under the guidance of Bill Foulkes at the Chicago Sting. He also played for Tulsa Roughnecks, Los Angeles Aztecs,Portland Timbers and was later a team mate of Jimmy Greenhoff in Toronto. Kelly has been the head coach at the College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, since 1987 and has been playing in the NJCAA Division I Men's soccer program since 1990.

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Kelly, Jimmy Coach Kelly was the best coach I ever had. His dedication to fitness and his disciplinary approach to the game was unmatched. It’s been over 25 years since I’ve spoken to coach, but I felt compelled to leave a comment here. Jimmy taught me things about the game that I never understood prior to his program and still take the same approach in life today. Preparation. Responsibility. Performance. Coach Kelly taught me all of these attributes to the nth degree and then some. I was never more prepared to play the game that I loved than when I was under his guidance. A Great coach and a great man who built a great program who led us to a National Championship. Wherever you are coach…… I hope you are well
23-08-22 Joey Cavallo

Kelly, Jimmy Jimmy Kelly was the best coach I ever had, great person. Helped me get on track when I was going down a bad path. Talked me into playing for him in college and had a great experience. Two undefeated seasons in college, lost in national championships, but ranked #1 team in country two years in a row. Knew the game better than most coaches could comprehend. Was fun when he would kick a ball around with us.
03-05-22 Tyler Nelson

Kelly, Jimmy Jimmy and I went to Liverpool a couple of times in 1970. Never played with Jimmy unless it was for Carlisle Schoolboys, always played against him. I can still say now he was the best I played with and against, he was a big miss to English Football when he went to America. Last met him in Carlisle probably 30 years ago. Would love to know if he is well.
13-08-21 Rodney Noble