New South Sydney Rabbitohs signing Richard Kennar says that his connection with Head Coach Anthony Seibold was a decisive factor when joining the mighty Red and Green in 2018.
The 22-year-old outside back was recruited by the Rabbitohs from the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in October this year. But it was at Melbourne Storm where he was given his footy education, under the teaching of new Souths chief Seibold.
Richard Kennar“It’s been awesome to work under Seibs again.”
“I’ve known Seibs for a couple of years now down in Melbourne he was my 20s coach and my development coach,” said Kenner.
“Seibs is not only a good coach he’s also a good person, so I’m really keen and excited to work under him again.”
Following a unique Rugby League upbringing, emerging through the system in the AFL-dominated state of Victoria, Kennar had to keep fighting to finally achieve his goal.
“As you know Melbourne is not a rugby league town. AFL takes over so coming through the local grade there wasn’t much of a competition compared to Sydney or Queensland,” said Kennar.
“Rugby League opportunities are very slim, but to come through the junior ranks in Melbourne and play first grade was a goal that I always wanted to achieve and do that was a dream come true.”
After two months of pre-season Kennar, is now finally settling into his rhythm at Redfern. The Melbourne product admits the move was made easier by the great atmosphere around camp.
“It’s been pretty good when I first got here I felt like I wasn’t new to this team, all the boys welcomed me and everyone was really friendly so it’s made my transition for me very easy coming from a different club,” he added.
Having played at two other clubs in his short professional career, there was one thing that stood out most about the Rabbitohs compared to other clubs for Kennar.
“All those other clubs I’ve been to are very professional and Rabbitohs are no different but the history behind the Rabbitohs makes it different,” he said.
“The past players that have put this jersey on are unique and the boys here now are the same, which makes everything easier and helps training.”
Learning from some of the best and mixing it with the new recruits, it’s safe to say that Kennar has adjusted to life at Souths quite comfortably.
“Training is tough and pre-season is not easy, but all the boys have been ripping in and training well and we can’t wait for the new season.”
