Gerry Kelly ranks among the top hockey builders within Newfoundland and Labrador and while his overall contributions to sport include work on major activities other than hockey, it has been special within his volunteer career. A tireless worker as a coach, manager, fund-raiser, organizer and a long list of executive positions, his co-operative approach and his hands-on manner of working have been extremely beneficial for anything with which he has been associated, especially hockey.

From 1964 to 1979, he played a valuable role in the development of Conception Bay South minor and school hockey as he filled a variety of positions in a manner that earned him universal respect. An extremely large number of youth benefited because of his outstanding contributions.

In 1980 he moved into provincial hockey and for 20 years his efforts were important within the overall minor hockey structure within Newfoundland and Labrador. He was Eastern Area director for eight years, registrar for two years and secretary-manager for ten years, filling all positions with the devotion and competence for which he was well known. During this time he acted with success in several other important and demanding positions.

Conception Bay South senior hockey benefited from his work as he acted as manager of the senior team and served as league vice-president for two years.

The important scope of his work and contributions has been recognized by hockey at all levels. He received the C.A.H.A national award in 1995, the N.A.H.A. gold stick award in 1990, a Canadian government 1988 certificate of merit, H.N.L. meritorious award in 2001, a C.B.S. senior hockey appreciation award in 1984, N.A.H.A. outstanding service award in 1980 and a C.B.S minor hockey service award in 1980.