Jimmy Kelly: Setting the Stage for Oak Forest Soccer

Senior midfielder Jimmy Kelly is dedicated to creating scoring opportunities for Oak Forest. He finds great satisfaction in delivering precise passes that set up goals for the Bengals, trusting his skill in this aspect of the game.

“My shots are hit or miss, but my crosses are usually effective,” Kelly shared. “I’ve always been more of an assister than a scorer. I contribute significantly to the team without often being the top scorer. I may not always get direct assists, but I frequently initiate plays that lead to goals.”

On Tuesday night, Kelly demonstrated his playmaking ability by assisting a goal scored by Ulysses Morales, resulting in a 1-1 draw against rivals Bremen in a South Suburban Blue match. Bengals’ goalkeeper Nate Dunaj made seven saves, maintaining the team’s record at 10-3-4, 4-1-4, while Jose Cardoso scored for Bremen with assistance from Osvaldo Mata.

Bremen’s coach, Huber Saucedo, commented, “We played decently, but we’ve performed better. It’s a rivalry game, which brings extra intensity. Mistakes from our side were costly.”

Bremen scored first within the initial five minutes. Kelly then assisted Morales in bringing the score to 1-1 in the 18th minute with a well-placed pass. Morales, set to join Illinois’ football team, converted the opportunity into a goal from 15 yards.

“Jimmy and I have played together since childhood,” Morales said. “Our chemistry benefits the team greatly, enabling us to anticipate each other’s actions.”

This match marked Kelly’s seventh assist of the season. “That goal was special,” Kelly stated. “The crowd’s energetic reaction got them noticed by the referee. It was exhilarating to provide Ulysses with that opportunity and see the team’s response.”

Kelly has provided this spark throughout his four years on varsity, becoming a crucial team member by his sophomore year.

“My coach urged me to take charge during sophomore year,” Kelly recalled. “That guidance helped me become a leader on the field, orchestrating both our midfield and offense.”

Oak Forest coach Alex Alvarez appreciates Kelly’s relentless energy. “He offers his all for the entire match. His pressure on the ball and ability to incite action is invaluable,” Alvarez remarked. “The four-year collaboration between Jimmy and Ulysses fosters opportunities like the goal we witnessed.”

Kelly’s soccer journey began at age four, inspired by his older brothers, Mickey and Will, who also played for Oak Forest. “Playing with Mickey, who was then a senior and the starting right back, was a learning experience,” Kelly said. “He taught me important aspects of leadership and composure.”