Before USMMA: Kelsik competed on both the swimming and football teams while at New Castle High School.  He served as captain of the swimming team for two seasons and was a three time state qualifier.  Kelsik earned a conference championship in four seasons as well as team MVP and "Most Versatile" accolades.  On the football field, Kelsik was an academic all-conference selection and was named the team's Defensive Player of the Year in his senior season.