WHEN Will Kennedy signed a one-year contract extension with the Cronulla Sharks last September, the word loyalty was used in reference to the talented fullback.
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It is a word Kennedy hopes will be remembered given the uncertainty currently facing the the NRL.
Given the current NRL shutdown due to the coronavirus, no player contracts can officially be lodged.
While that does not affect Bathurst league star Kennedy, who has signed until the end of 2020, if the NRL can not play out the remainder of the season it could impact his playing future.
And even if the NRL resumes, Kennedy may find it hard to stake his claims for another contract extension.
Kennedy had started at fullback for the Sharks in the two rounds before the shutdown, getting the nod to replace the injured Matt Moylan. He was solid in each of those outings.
However, the NRL hopes to resume competition on May 28 and by then Moylan will be ready to return.
With the Canterbury Cup season cancelled it is uncertain exactly where Kennedy will play if not included in the Sharks' side.
So that is why Kennedy, who has been with the Sharks since under 18s, is hoping his loyalty is remembered when his current contract expires.
"Will has been a part of our elite pathways system since he was in the under 18s and we have high hopes for his future," Sharks coach John Morris said after Kennedy signed his extension last year.
"Will is of the highest character and like our other debutants it's great he's shown loyalty to the club by extending his contract."
