The Penrith Panthers secured a victory in the player market as hooker Mitch Kenny signed a three-year contract extension. This deal will keep Kenny with the club until the conclusion of the 2027 season.
Kenny, who stepped in for Apisai Koroisau last year and even scored a try in the grand final, expressed his joy at committing to the Panthers, stating, “I’m thrilled to commit to the Panthers because this place is home to me.”
“Ivan Cleary and everyone at the club have supported me from the beginning, and I’m excited to repay the faith to them,” Kenny expressed. “It’s great to have the opportunity to continue wearing the Panthers jersey and representing our community for another three seasons.”
The 26-year-old, who made his debut for the Panthers in 2019, has deep roots with the club, having played his junior rugby league there.
Kenny has amassed 86 NRL appearances and has now secured two premierships, notably being a late inclusion in the 2022 win over the Eels. “On behalf of everyone at Panthers, we are thrilled to see Mitch remain with the club for a further three seasons,” expressed Panthers general manager Shane Elford.
“Mitch embodies the core qualities we value at our club, seen through his courage, determination, and dedication to his team.”
Kenny’s contract extension follows a one-match suspension earlier in the year and a $10,000 fine, with half suspended, due to an Instagram story that brought the game into disrepute. The Panthers have also recently confirmed the re-signings of centres Taylan May and Izack Tago.
Despite recent efforts to retain key players, Penrith is facing challenges in retaining winger Sunia Turuva, who is reportedly poised to receive offers of $500,000 per season.
