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Words can't describe it....


Kelley helps clear path for Hornets’ running game
The senior wingback relishes success after a season of injuries.


By John Boyle, Staff Writer 6:50 PM Thursday, November 5, 2009

Playing varsity football for the Monroe Hornets is a big deal for someone who’s been in the program since peewee football.

That’s what made last year so difficult for Monroe High senior Stephen Kelley.

After earning a full-time starting role as a safety, Kelley separated his shoulder twice, had surgery and missed all but one game.

“It was tough,” Kelley said. “I’ve been in Monroe my whole life and finally got to play varsity. I played some my sophomore year, but last year was my first full year to start.”

Kelley returned to the starting lineup this season in a new position (wingback), and has been a key player in Monroe’s return to the state playoffs. The Hornets battle Chaminade Julienne on Friday, Nov. 6, in a Division III, Region 12 quarterfinal at Welcome Stadium in Dayton.

“Stephen’s an extremely bright kid,” Monroe coach Ken Meibers said. “He knows what we’re trying to accomplish with the offense. He’s a physical blocking running back. Usually at that wingback position, you’ve got guys who are ballcarriers.”

While Kelley gets a few carries, his primary role is to clear a path for junior fullback Devin King, who has rushed for a single-season school record 1,570 yards. It’s a role Kelley relishes.

“I realize that Devin is the main ball carrier,” he said. “That’s OK with me. I pride myself in blocking. ... Whenever I get the ball, it’s like a bonus.”

Kelley averages just two carries per game, but has made the most of his opportunites. The 5-foot-11, 185-pounder has gained 154 yards on 20 attempts (7.4 yards per carry) and scored four touchdowns, including a 24-yard TD run last week against Northridge.


Monroe's Stephen Kelley is a wingback whose primary role is to block for fullback Devin King. Staff photo by Pat Auckerman

Awesome story! You should be proud Bob!!!!!

Wow! That is wonderful! I must say that I do not know or understand the game, but I have heard all about Devin King and his record smashing 'whatevers' It's great to read about the other guys who enable Devin to do what he does..... As a Parent, well, there simply is nothing better than reading about how fabo your Child is especially when it hits the newspapers !!!

You should be very proud, as most of Monroe is proud of this whole team. I have been priviledged to have been here and watch the football transformation in this city which has been remarkable. I believe even more remakable is the way the city has embraced this team. I can remember when we were outnumbered at almost every home game by the visitors! Now Monroe is considered a tough place to come in and play and we are second to no one that we play in home support and we often travel better than the home teams on the schedule.

Congrats to Steven and the Kelley family and we will turn out tonight to push them over CJ.