Fresh off a tremendous 2025 season that saw him leading the Dally M count for large chunks of the season, Cronulla Sharks fullback Will Kennedy will stay at the club for the 2026 season.
Kennedy made his NRL debut with the Sharks back in 2019 after coming through the club ranks since SG Ball.
To date, Kennedy has 134 NRL games to his name and he is excited to add to that tally.
“I feel really happy to stay at the club. I’ve been here since SG Ball, so it really means a lot to me,” Kennedy said.
“It’s been a pretty special run that we’ve had, making it to the finals.
“Making that next step is a big one; I’m very excited to do that with these boys.”
The Sharks may have fallen short in the finals but Kennedy is confident that the side has it in them to go even better in 2026.
I know we’ve got it in us to do it,” Kennedy continued.
“We’ll have a good pre-season together and it’ll take care of itself.
“We’ve become a really tight group and I love how the club and the culture is and what Fitzy (coach Craig Fitzgibbon) has brought. It’s home to me.”
The club were also thrilled to retain Kennedy as Sharks General Manager of Football Darren Mooney praised Kennedy’s long tenure with the Sharks.
“Will has been a crucial member of our squad for several years; someone who is renowned for being extremely dependable and skilful while always striving to improve,” Mooney said.
“He’s been part of the club for a decade, winning an SG Ball premiership in 2015 and a NSW Cup title in 2019 on the way to establishing himself in the NRL.
“Will’s efforts this season were reflected in his standing on the Dally M Medal leaderboard and his nomination for our Player of the Year award.