With his injury troubles behind him, the defender is level-headed, focused and determined to crack the big time.
“Definitely... I’m focusing on trying to play some really consistent footy and play the AFL brand at VFL level,” Kennedy told NMFC.com.au.
“I think I’m over it all now (the injuries). I had a few dramas with the ankle earlier this year but hopefully that’s all behind me now and I can focus on playing some good footy.
“If a spot were to open up I would like to think I could do it and step up.”
The number 36 is constantly looking to improve and sees his role as a regular in Werribee’s back six as a chance show exactly what he’s capable of.
“All I have to do is focus on the defensive side of my game first and then when the ball turns over, react quickly to get into a position to attack and receive the footy,” he explained.
“There’s only myself who plays down back out of the North guys for Werribee so we’re pretty consistent down there. There’s not much change week to week which is good.
“Having the back six stay pretty much the same all year is good because you get to play with the same guys week in, week out and work together to improve.”
Kennedy has confidence in his team-mates and the group at Werribee, and believes the Tigers are in for an exciting second half of the season.
“We had a tougher draw I guess at the start of the year. We played some strong teams and we put in a couple of poor performances, but we’ve got back to the better footy we were playing last year in our last few weeks which has been good.
“We had a bit more of a disappointing one last weekend, we let a few things slip and we were also playing Box Hill who are a really good outfit.
“If we tighten up on a few things I think we could really push for top four this year.”
Werribee will look to get back on track against the 11th placed Bombers on Saturday, with Kennedy sure to play a key role down back.
He’ll be joined by the likes of Will Sierakowski, Majak Daw and Mason Wood of the North contingent, while AFL regular Sam Wright will be another handy inclusion.
At Eureka Stadium, the Roosters will look to build on their good recent form, built on the strong performances of the Delaney brothers from defence.
Ben Mabon, Max Warren and Mitch Wilkins will also line up against Sandringham, with both sides needing a win to keep their September ambitions on track.
The match will be one to celebrate as Gerard Fitzgerald coaches his 300th VFL game.
Werribee V Essendon, 2.00pm
Avalon Airport Oval, Werribee
North-listed players (possible)
- Leigh Adams
- Daniel Currie
- Majak Daw
- Michael Firrito
- Jordie Gysberts
- Kieran Harper
- Ayden Kennedy
- Tim McGenniss
- Will Sierakowski
- Robbie Tarrant
- Sam Wright
- Mason Wood
North Ballarat V Sandringham, 2.00pm
Eureka Stadium, Ballarat
North-listed players (possible)
- Liam Anthony
- Cam Delaney
- Luke Delaney
- Taylor Garner
- Ben Jacobs
- Ben Mabon
- Cam Richardson
- Max Warren
- Mitch Wilkins
