Rhys Kennedy, the towering prop forward currently playing for the London Broncos, has opened up about one of his biggest career regrets—leaving the Brisbane Broncos. The 29-year-old rugby league star, who has experienced a rollercoaster career spanning both the NRL and Super League, has admitted that his departure from the Broncos is something he looks back on with a sense of loss.
Kennedy, who stands at an imposing 198 cm and weighs 110 kg, was one of the tallest and most dominant players in Brisbane’s squad during his time with the club. “The league is incredibly competitive, and it helps build a player in so many ways,” Kennedy reflected. “Looking back, leaving Brisbane was a mistake. The intensity, the standard of competition, the stadium atmosphere, the fans, the chants—I missed it all.”
The NRL is known for its demanding nature, both physically and mentally, and Kennedy thrived during his time in Brisbane. Joining the Broncos mid-season in 2019, Kennedy quickly became a crucial part of the squad. His height, power, and athleticism made him a fearsome presence on the field, but it was the off-field experience, particularly the connection with the fans, that he now longs for.
“There’s nothing like the feeling of running out onto the pitch at Suncorp Stadium,” Kennedy said, reminiscing about his time in the heart of Queensland rugby league. “The roar of the crowd, the passion of the fans—it’s like nothing else. That’s one of the things I’ve missed the most.”
Suncorp Stadium, known for its electrifying atmosphere and loyal supporters, became a fortress for Kennedy during his stint with the Broncos. He became a fan favorite, admired not just for his physical attributes but for his determination and dedication to the team. “I missed that connection with the fans, the chants, and the support. It’s one of the best experiences any player can have, and I’m grateful for the memories.”
Kennedy’s rugby league journey has taken him across continents, from his early days with Melbourne Storm’s National Youth Competition team to his time with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, where he made his NRL debut in 2019. After signing with the Broncos, Kennedy played a key role for the team until 2022 before moving to Hull Kingston Rovers in the Super League.
At Hull KR, Kennedy became an essential part of the squad, even playing in the 2023 Challenge Cup final. His impact on the team was undeniable, with 26 appearances in a season that saw Hull KR finish fourth in the Super League table. Despite his success overseas, Kennedy can’t shake the feeling that his heart still belongs in Brisbane.
Kennedy’s journey has now brought him to London, where he has signed with the London Broncos for the 2024 Super League season. However, despite his commitment to his current club, Kennedy has made it clear that he hasn’t closed the door on a possible return to Brisbane. “I hope to return to the Broncos in the future,” he stated. “It feels like unfinished business. I left something behind, and I want the chance to come back and be part of that culture again.”
For Kennedy, the Brisbane Broncos represent more than just a club—they’re a home. “Brisbane shaped me as a player and as a person. I’ll always be grateful for my time there, and if the opportunity ever arises, I’d jump at the chance to pull on that jersey again.”
As the London Broncos prepare for their upcoming season, Kennedy remains focused on his immediate goals. However, his heart and mind are never far from Brisbane, the club that helped him reach new heights in his career.
