Lawrence Kelly Jr.

Lawrence Kelly Jr. was one of the cornerstone players of a historic period in Manasquan football.

A member of the Class of 2000, Kelly was a powerful and versatile two-way player who contributed at linebacker, fullback, and running back. During his varsity career, Manasquan established itself as one of the top football programs in the Shore Conference and the state of New Jersey.

Kelly was a key part of Manasquan’s undefeated 1998 state championship team, which finished 12-0, and returned the following year to help lead the Warriors to another perfect 12-0 state championship season in 1999. The 1999 team finished ranked No. 1 in the Shore, completing one of the most dominant stretches in program history.

In 1999, Kelly earned major recognition for his performance on both sides of the football. Defensively, he was named Associated Press Second Team All-State, Star-Ledger Third Team All-State, Associated Press First Team All-Shore, Star-Ledger First Team All-Group II, and First Team All-Monmouth County at linebacker. He also earned All-Division B South recognition.

Kelly’s production matched the honors. On defense, he recorded 71 tackles and 7 sacks. Offensively, he scored 8 rushing touchdowns and added a receiving touchdown. He also earned All-State Super 100 Team recognition as both an offensive and defensive contributor, finishing with 10 runs of 20 yards or more, 66 carries, and 426 rushing yards.

His impact was not limited to one season. In 1998, Kelly was also recognized as Associated Press Second Team All-Shore at linebacker, First Team All-Monmouth County, and All-Division B South. He was a two-way starter at linebacker and fullback, helping set the tone physically for a championship program built on toughness, discipline, and execution.

Lawrence Kelly Jr.’s Hall of Fame recognition honors his role as one of the defining players of Manasquan’s late-1990s football dynasty — a relentless competitor whose contributions helped deliver undefeated seasons, state championships, and a lasting Warrior legacy.