Career
Shelford then switched clubs, joining the Glenora Bears. In 1991 Shelford joined the Otahuhu Leopards. Shelford was also an Auckland representative and played for the New Zealand Māori side between 1986 and 1997.
During the 1980s Shelford also played for the Whitehaven in England.
Between 1989 and 1991 Shelford was a New Zealand Kiwis representative, playing in ten Test matches. In 1991 Shelford joined the Warrington Wolves.
Kelly Shelford played loose forward/lock in Warrington"s 10-40 defeat by Wigan in the 1994-1995 Regal Trophy final during the 1994-1995 season at Alfred McAlpine Stadium, Huddersfield on Saturday 28 January 1995. He stayed with the club until the 1997 season, when he left midway through the season.
After leaving Warrington, Shelford returned home and joined the Waikato Cougars in the National Provincial Competition.
In 1998 Shelford served as the player-coach for Hukanui in the Waikato Rugby League.