A product of the Wellington Rugby Academy, 20-year old Kennedy was the youngest member of the Hurricanes squad in his first year in 2003.

He was a member of the Junior World Cup winning New Zealand U19s in 2001, represented New Zealand U21 in 2002 and was a standout player in his first NPC season, named Wellington rugby’s Most Promising Player.

His career continued on the upward spiral between 2003-2005, enjoying a second stint with New Zealand U21 and establishing himself as a regular member of both the Hurricanes and the Lions until the end of 2005.