Former player Kelly has taken up a new role with the club as the Player Wellbeing Manager.

Having ran out for the Rabbitohs in the NRL last year, Kelly has moved into the new position where he hopes he can help the players keep all of their focus on their game.

With a career spanning over eight years where he featured for three different clubs, Kelly jumped at the opportunity to continue working in the sport he loves.

“It’s an exciting role,” said Kelly. “It’s a little bit different to playing obviously but it’s something I’m looking forward to and it’s an opportunity to help the boys with anything off-field so it’s pretty exciting.”

“I had a meeting with the Club once the season ended last year and they mentioned the role.

“From there it just all fell into place, I live around the area and I’ve said it before I’m good mates with a lot of the boys and it all just fit really well.”

Having made the tough choice to leave the on-field action behind, Kelly is looking forward to developing in his new role and doing everything he can to help the Rabbitohs tick along smoothly.

Kelly feels like he has easily transitioned into the roll, despite copping some stick from his former teammates, but the former half is eager to get stuck in.

“As we know in Rugby League, things come up off the field and with my experience playing hopefully I can relate to the boys and help them with anything they come up against,” Kelly added.

“The boys have been giving me a bit of stick, which was expected, but I definitely don’t miss training particularly at this time of year.

“I think it’s very important to know the boys and, playing here last year, I got a good chance to do that. It’s very fulfilling to be able to help your mates and hopefully I can do that this year.”