After coaching at Conwell-Egan for the past nine years, Kelly said the lure of coaching in the Suburban One League's National Conference was too much to pass up.
"Leaving Egan and coming here, they were two separate decisions. But I viewed this as a great opportunity. There are some great teams in this conference," Kelly said.
Kelly attributes much of the Owls' initial success to the experience of the group he inherited.
"We have a large senior class," Kelly said. "And they've been great. It's not easy being accepting of a coaching change. They've stepped up and set an example for the younger kids. That has been our biggest strength."
One of those seniors is standout running back C.J. Lebesco. Through three games, the 5-foot-6 back leads the Owls with 282 yards on 40 carries and has scored four touchdowns.
Lebesco runs behind a big offensive line led by another senior, Bill Labadie, who at 6-4 and 270 pounds can make it difficult for opposing defenses to see the small but speedy Lebesco.
In a conference that includes defending champion Neshaminy and perennial powerhouses Council Rock South and Pennsbury, Kelly understands the challenges that lie ahead. That could be why he is intent on concentrating on the present.
"I know it sounds like coach talk, but right now, we're just trying to learn how to practice better, be more consistent, and that will lead to success," he said.
But that doesn't mean he isn't hopeful based on what he has seen thus far in 2011.
"We need to continue to play well on the O-line and D-line to have success," Kelly said. "If we do that, we have the skill-position guys to play with anyone."
As they open conference play this week at home against Pennsbury, Kelly and his Owls could prove to be a sleeper.
Contact Alex Lee at rallysports@phillynews.com.
