Georgie Kelly has described captaining Carlisle United for the first time as a 'really proud moment' for him. The forward, who joined the club in January 2024, was handed the armband in the absence of club captain Morgan Feeney and has since led the side in several matches. He told the club's official website that the responsibility is one he takes seriously, representing more than just the players on the pitch.
A special feeling
"It was a really proud moment for me," Kelly said. "I've been at the club for a while now, so to be given the opportunity to captain Carlisle for the first time was a really special feeling." The 29-year-old first wore the armband in the 1-1 draw away at Yeovil Town on 15 August. He has since captained the team in the victories over AFC Hornchurch and Scunthorpe United, as well as the draw at Wealdstone. Callum Whelan had skippered the side on the opening day against Worthing.
Representing the community
Kelly, who has now spent more than two years living in Carlisle, said the role carries a weight beyond the dressing room. "It's something I didn't take lightly," he explained. "You think about what the club means to the people here and the supporters, and you realise you're representing more than just yourself." He has developed a strong connection to the local area, regularly walking through the city's parks and green spaces and speaking with residents about life and football. He believes that understanding is central to his role as a leader within the squad.
Focus on collective success
The striker was clear that individual recognition is secondary to the team's objectives. He stated that the only thing that matters is success and that collective achievement must come ahead of any personal accolades. "Success needs to happen this year," Kelly emphasized. He believes the first-team squad, which sits 14th in the National League with 8 points from six games, has not yet reached its maximum potential. "We need to make huge strides to reach our potential," he added, expressing confidence that progress will come in the coming weeks and months. Kelly is determined to play his part in delivering that success.
The team's recent form shows two wins, two draws and one loss from their last five outings, a sequence of LWDWD. Their most recent result was a 2-1 defeat away to league leaders Boreham Wood on 5 September, a match in which Kelly's teammate Stephen Wearne scored Carlisle's goal. With 13 goals scored and 10 conceded so far this season, the focus is now on building consistency. Kelly's commitment shows a drive to climb the table and challenge at the top end of the division, with the next opportunity coming this Saturday.
