Tim Kelly
Profile
Name: Tim Kelly
Sport: AFL
Team: West Coast Eagles
Bio:
After a standout WAFL career with South Fremantle, including a runner-up finish in the 2017 Sandover Medal, Tim was drafted by Geelong with pick 24 in the 2017 AFL Draft after being overlooked in five consecutive drafts.
Tim made an immediate impact in his debut AFL season, playing 23 games and averaging 23 disposals (10 contested), 4 clearances, 4 inside 50s, 4 tackles, and 3 marks while kicking 24 goals. His outstanding first year earned him the AFLPA Best First Year Player Award, a second-place finish in Geelong’s Best & Fairest, and 13 Brownlow votes (equal 11th overall).
Backing up his brilliant debut season, Tim elevated his game further in 2019. He played 25 games, averaging 25 disposals (12 contested), 6 clearances, 4 inside 50s, 4 tackles, and 4 marks while again kicking 24 goals. His accolades included the AFLCA Best Young Player Award, All-Australian selection, and top-five finishes in the Brownlow, AFLPA MVP, AFLCA Player of the Year, and Gary Ayres Medal.
Seeking a return home to Western Australia, Kelly was traded to the West Coast Eagles in 2019. Since his arrival, he has been a key pillar of the Eagles' midfield, showcasing his clean ball use, composure under pressure, and ability to impact the scoreboard.
After claiming the 2023 John Worsfold Medal as West Coast’s best and fairest, Tim remained a crucial figure in 2024. He played 20 games, averaging 23.9 disposals despite regular attention from opposition taggers, and formed a strong midfield combination alongside a resurgent Elliot Yeo and exciting young gun Harley Reid. Approaching his 31st birthday, the smooth-moving midfielder still has plenty of high-level football ahead.
Honours:
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John Worsfold Medal: 2023
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All-Australian: 2019
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AFLPA Best First-Year Player: 2018
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AFLCA Best Young Player: 2019
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Glendinning–Allan Medal: 2021
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Geelong best and fairest: Runner-up in 2018 and 2019
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Brownlow votes: 77
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AFL debut: Round 1, 2018 (Geelong), Round 1, 2020 (West Coast)