John joined Newcastle Falcons in the summer of 2023 from Doncaster Knights.

Able to play in either the back row or second row, John’s rugby journey began in earnest at Lucton School in Herefordshire, having moved around previously due to his military upbringing.

Playing for the Luctonians club, he made more than 50 appearances for them before moving to Plymouth Albion, also reaching the half-century with the Devon club before signing for Doncaster in 2020.

Kelly spent three seasons with the Yorkshire club, earning a place in the 2022-23 Championship Team of the Season for his hard hitting in both attack and defence.

His maiden campaign with the Falcons in 2023-24 saw him making eight senior appearances, playing in both the second and back rows.